Luthier-Built Replica of a 1820s Lacote Guitar

We used to produce an inexpensive Guitar of the Early 19th Century “Romantic” Type was based on a modern small-bodied “parlor” guitar that came close to replicating the look of guitars of Locote, Pons and others of the early 19^th Century. It was not, however, a true replica. For instance, it, having a truss rod and modern “X” bracing, could handle steel strings.

Our Luthier-Built Replica of an 1820s Lacote Guitar is the Real Deal

Note: Payment terms are possible. See the end of this product listing.

This replica meticulously adheres to smallest details, down to the last brace, of an actual 1820s guitar taken from historic records documenting the construction. It has the authentic ox horn frets glued to the guitar body and the Romantic Period “mustache bridge”, as well as the elaborately decorative purfling and binding. 

The photo shown is an actual 1820s Locote Guitar, which we replicate perfectly.

Who is this instrument for?

The guitar is only suitable for the most discerning musicians seeking a meticulous replica of the 1820s. This would include committed enthusiasts of Romantic Period guitar style. Also included would be Minstrel Period musical re-enactors and Civil War re-enactors who wish to play on a guitar that would have been vintage (i.e. old) during the Minstrel Period, which included the Civil War.

Stringing

The bracing is such that the most suitable strings are real gut. An acceptable alternative string would be with low tension Nylgut strings specially made for Romantic Period guitars. Playing in any manner besides finger style, such as with a plectrum, is out of the question.

Varnish

It is finished with the same type of oil varnish that is still used on fine violins. These guitars are from an era long before the introduction of nitrocellulose lacquer as a guitar varnish.

Other Aspects

The materials used in the construction of this guitar are different depending on whether it will be shipped to the continental U.S. or anywhere else. There are international legal restrictions on the export of Honduras Mahogany and most forms of ebony from the U.S.

U.S. Market

• Neck: Honduras Mahogany
• Sides and Back: Honduras Mahogany
• Top: Engleman Spruce
• Bracing: Sitka Spruce
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Bridge: Ebony
• Nut: Micarta (synthetic bone)
• Saddle: TUSQ (synthetic ivory)

Non-U.S. Market

Note on Wood Substitutions

In order to comply with international regulations, we substitute Sepele Mahogany for Honduras Mahogany. Sepele is actually a much more beautiful wood than Honduras and possesses similar acoustic characteristics.

The other substitution is Katalox for Ebony. Katalox is harder than ebony. It is very dark brown and eventually oxidizes to black.

The Materials for Non-U.S. orders

• Neck: Sepele Mahogany (Africa)
• Sides and Back: Sepele Mahogany
• Top: Engleman Spruce
• Bracing: Sitka Spruce
• Fingerboard: Katalox (Southern Mexico and Central America)
• Bridge: Katalox
• Nut: Micarta (synthetic bone)
• Saddle: TUSQ (synthetic ivory)

Optional Payment Terms:

Due to the expense of this instrument and the long wait time (up to 120 days), the following payment terms are available:

• 50% up front
• 50% upon shipping

Please call or email us if you wish to discuss this option.

don@DonRickertDesign.com

(706) 896-0909 (direct)