Flatiron Festival F (1995)

Description

Even decades later, Flatiron still remains perhaps the very best kept secret in the world of mandolins - despite outstanding quality, fantastic head builders, and a shared lineage with the most notable mandolin manufacturer in history, these American-made, hand-built instruments don't command the sky-high prices of modern boutique options. This 1995 Flatiron Festival F shows off just why these instruments ought to be more sought-after, with a great sound, look, and feel that easily place it near the front of the pack in our current lineup of eight-strings. A Sitka spruce, X-braced top pairs with a maple neck, back, and sides for a classic, worn-in tone that leaps right to the front of a bluegrass band, and a unique neck joint without a floating extension gives the instrument a slightly brighter upper register with more chime than is typically heard in an F-style. It's finished in a gloss sunburst and sports classic appointments like a single-bound top and extensive headstock inlay work in both mother-of-pearl and abalone.

This instrument arrived in our store in very good condition and features a fairly average amount of overall cosmetic wear. Finish checking on the top is more prominent and visible than is generally seen on mandolins of this age, but there are no cracks that go through the finish to the wood itself. This checking is most visible on the scroll and the headstock. Other notable wear includes marks on the top treble side from a player anchoring their fingers while picking. A very small amount of the finish on the headstock over the inlay has begun to chip away. All parts and hardware are original. This mandolin has recently seen a full professional set up, including a fret dress, level, and crown, and plays exceedingly well in all positions. Included in the price is the original hard-shell case.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*