We are delighted to present for sale this 1993 Style 45 12-Fret Dreadnought built by Ralph Bown.
This stunning instrument is a testament not only to the incredible work of the luthier, but also to the intricacies of the Style 45 design.
This Bown dreadnought features a Sitka spruce top paired with Brazilian rosewood back and sides, offering a rich, resonant tone reminiscent of a vintage Martin. The mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard are very comfortable to play while the slotted headstock with decorative tuners and white buttons add a touch of vintage elegance.
This dreadnought boasts Ralph's interpretation of the iconic Martin Style 45 inlays in addition to intricate inlays on the ebony pickguard. The guitar has a 1 3/4" nut width and a scale length of 25.4".
With a string spacing of 2 3/16", it accommodates fingerstyle and flatpicking techniques with ease, and the 12-fret design contributes to a warmer, more balanced tone by positioning the bridge in a more central location on the lower bout, enhancing the guitar's overall resonance and sustain.
It comes with a green Calton fiberglass case and a passive pickup installed, making it stage-ready for live performances. Despite its player-grade, used condition, this instrument remains a superb example of Ralph Bown’s craftsmanship and a stunning addition to any collection.
- Brand: Bown
- Model: Style 45 12 Fret Dreadnought
- Serial Number: 117
- Year: 1993
- Condition: player-grade, used
- Body Shape: Dreadnought
- Top: Sitka Spruce
- Back & Sides: Brazilian rosewood
- Neck: Mahogany
- Frotboard: Ebony
- Bridge: Ebony
- Headstock: slotted with decorative tuners and white buttons
- Decoration: Style 45 inlays, ebony pickguard with inlays
- Nut Width: 1 3/4"
- Scale Length: 25.4"
- String Spacing: 2 3/16"
- Case & Accessories: Calton Fibreglass case in green
- Pickup: passive pickup installed
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About the Luthier
Ralph Bown is a highly respected English luthier known for his exceptional craftsmanship in building acoustic guitars since the late 1970s. Largely self-taught, Bown has developed a reputation for creating instruments that are celebrated for their tonal richness, meticulous attention to detail, and aesthetic beauty. He primarily builds steel-string acoustic guitars, each handcrafted with the finest materials and a blend of traditional and innovative techniques to ensure superior sound and playability.
Bown’s guitars are highly sought after by professional musicians and serious enthusiasts alike, earning widespread acclaim for their quality and consistency. Many well-known musicians favour his instruments for their outstanding sound and responsiveness. Bown’s dedication to his craft and his ability to meet the specific needs of individual players have solidified his place as one of the leading guitar makers of the contemporary era.
