1946 D'Angelico Excel

Serial # 1704 - The second instrument completed by John D'Angelico in 1946. D'Angelico is considered by many to be the Stradivarius of Archtop guitars, and the 1940's were the Master's hayday amidst the overwhelming popularity of Jazz during that time. Today, musicians and collectors alike consider the instruments built by D'Angelico to be among the finest Archtop guitars ever built.
This 17" Excel is in remarkably fine condition. It is a two owner instrument that is crack free, and shows very little play-wear to its finish. The original binding is completely intact, as is its original cross-hatched and bound celluloid pickguard. Original ebony bridge and engraved stairstep tailpiece; original pickguard support hardware. Exceptionally fine quilted and curly Maple back, sides and neck. Refretted some 10 years ago byMandolin Bros. in New York, at which time proper 1940's Grover Imperial tuning machines were re-installed, replacing the misc tuners that were incorrect to this instrument. There remain filled screw holes on the back of the headstock from the replaced tuners; but no new finish was applied.Two small screw holes on fingerboard extension from a DeArmond pickup support. Set up in our shop, this D'Angelico plays as well as it looks, and sounds better still! It has tremendous cutting power, great volume, and is very consistent up the neck. It is a guitar that will definitely inspire and enchant you.
1940's Lifton hard shell case included.
On Consignment
SOLD