Lowden F-38 Special Batch 45 | Brazilian Rosewood - Sitka Spruce - Used

Introducing the Lowden Special Edition: Batch 45 F-38 Special, a truly exceptional acoustic guitar that pays homage to the iconic 38 model, celebrating 45 years of excellence from Lowden. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and utilising the finest materials, this limited edition guitar embodies the legacy and craftsmanship that Lowden is renowned for.

The story behind the F-38 Special is captivating. It all began in 1976 when George Lowden designed the first prototype 38 model for his friend Alastair Burke. The guitar made such an impression that the owners of Folk Quincampoix in Paris immediately ordered six guitars and requested four more every month thereafter. Thus, the 38 model emerged in 1977, marking a significant milestone in Lowden's history. The guitar's reputation soared even higher when Irish musician Paul Brady gifted one to the legendary Eric Clapton, who used it on his album 'Pilgrim' and during his iconic performance at the 1997 Grammy award ceremony.

Now, in recognition of the enduring importance of the 38 model, Lowden presents Batch 45, a special run of limited edition guitars that pay tribute to this iconic instrument. The collection comprises three unique guitars, each featuring new and bespoke wood combinations paired with traditional 38 style appointments. Only 45 guitars will be available worldwide, and each model will be exclusively offered by just 15 select stores, of which Peach Guitars is proudly one.

Amongst the three models, the F-38 with Brazilian Rosewood and Sitka Spruce stands out as a true masterpiece. Brazilian Rosewood is a tonewood sought after by guitar enthusiasts worldwide for its unparalleled beauty and tonal characteristics. Revered for its rich and resonant properties, Brazilian Rosewood infuses the guitar with an unrivalled warmth, depth, and complexity of tone. Every strum, every note played on this exquisite instrument resonates with a lush, harmonically rich sound that captivates both the player and the audience.. The Sitka Spruce soundboard adds a perfect balance and responsiveness to every note, ensuring a rich and expressive sound that will captivate both players and listeners.

In addition to the exceptional tonewood selection, the F-38 Special features custom Leaf Inlays, adding a touch of elegance and individuality to this already remarkable instrument. These meticulously crafted, leaf-shaped abalone inlays on the ebony fingerboard showcase the attention to detail and artistry that define Lowden guitars. Not only do these inlays enhance the visual appeal of the guitar, but they also serve as a symbol of the guitar's uniqueness and exclusivity.

The F-shaped body, originally designed in 1982 and redesigned in 2003, delivers outstanding projection and midrange response. While flatpickers will revel in its powerful voice, the F-38 Special has also become a favourite amongst fingerstyle players, blues guitarists, and other discerning musicians. The soundbox geometry and expertly voiced bracing provide a balanced tonal bias, favouring neither treble nor bass, creating a harmonically complex and versatile instrument.

The craftsmanship and attention to detail on the F-38 Special are unparalleled. The neck, crafted from a five-piece combination of Mahogany and Rosewood, offers exceptional stability and resonance. The ebony fingerboard, adorned with the unique leaf inlays, showcases the guitar's exquisite aesthetic. The GL standard neck profile provides a comfortable playing experience, measuring 45mm at the nut and extending to 57mm at the 14th fret.

Each F-38 Special in Batch 45 is meticulously handcrafted in Lowden's new workshop in Saintfield, County Down. The guitar features 38 style appointments throughout, including abalone soundboard inlays, a Rosewood headplate, and Maple bindings. The internal label, individually numbered and hand-signed by George Lowden himself, adds a personal touch and underscores the exclusivity of this limited edition.

To ensure the F-38 Special meets the highest standards, it comes fitted with Gotoh Gold 510 tuners with Ebony buttons, providing smooth and precise tuning stability. The figured Maple binding and 38 Series Abalone purflings add the final touches of elegance to this remarkable instrument.

This guitar represents a rare opportunity to own a truly exceptional instrument. Its impeccable craftsmanship, the sought-after Brazilian Rosewood, and the bespoke Leaf Inlays make this guitar a coveted treasure for collectors, professionals, and enthusiasts alike. Experience the unrivalled beauty, tone, and playability of the F-38 Special, and embark on a musical journey that transcends boundaries and resonates with pure artistic expression.

*Please contact us before buying this instrument if you are outside the UK*

Please Note: This guitar is Pre-Owned but is in Excellent condition. It unfortunately has a very small and light dent on the body near the soundhole and a tiny ding on the headstock near the nut. With the legal restrictions surrounding Brazilian rosewood, we are incredibly excited to be able to offer this guitar to our valued customers and insist that international buyers please contact us first. If you wish to try out this beauty for yourself, then you can book an in-store appointment here at Peach Guitars!