2014 Olson's?!

[Tone.woods]

Forum,

I've been a reader for a long time, but this is my first contribution to the site...

Topic of the day, James Olson's recently distributed crop of 2014's...leading up to (and potentially including) #1500.

For those of you who know James (Jim) Olson, no further explanation of the excitement I had at receiving my custom order is required. For those who don't, you should look at his website, he is arguably one of the best luthiers working today. Undoubtedly, he is the kindest I've ever met.

I first caught eye of an Olson guitar behind a red velvet rope at Rudy's music in New York City over 10 years ago. I didn't touch the guitar, by the look of it you kinda felt like you didn't deserve to! It was gorgeous. Hence, I've had my eye on them ever since. But now the wait is over, and I couldn't be more excited to show you how it turned out.

A little less than a year ago, I flew to Circle Pines, Minnesota to meet with Jim. His hospitality was unbelievable, really down to earth guy. He coached me through the art of wood selection and showed me all of his handmade tools. Just an unbelievable experience. I settled on Brazilian Rosewood back and sides, with California Sinker Redwood as the top (bit of sentimental value from growing up in Northern California). I went with Koehler inlay all over, and fossilized walrus for the bridge/strap pins. She sounds incredible, I'll never own another instrument as fine as this, and the best part is knowing that like a good wine it'll only get better with age. It'll never leave my family.

#1493

I'd love to hear of other Olson stories, from this year or prior.




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[billgennaro]

Congratulations on your new Olson. I've never seen one with a Redwood top. Sure looks like a keeper.

[Tone.woods]

Thanks! Yep, this guitar is one of only a few that he's built with Redwood tops.

[billgennaro]

Originally Posted by Tone.woods

Thanks! Yep, this guitar is one of only a few that he's built with Redwood tops.

I'd love to try it. I've been fortunate to play many Olsons, especially those with Cedar tops. But I have tried some with Englemann tops as well. He is pretty consistent with the tone he gets from his instruments. The only difference between them seem to be in the subtleties of the different woods used.

May she last you a lifetime.

[KevinLPederson]

beautiful guitar.

[Fsgeek]

Congrats.
Jim makes wonderful and consistently great sounding guitars.
Your Olson looks very classy too...

[ericcsong]

congrats on the guitar!

[frances50]

Beautiful guitar and I love the bling on the headstock. I have a used Olson that was built in 2012. Mine was originally commissioned by an AGF member. I knew I wanted an Olson because first of all, I'm a huge James Taylor fan and I wanted a custom built guitar to round out and complete my collection.

You have a unique experience in that you got to meet Jim and were part of the building process. I'm so envious. Enjoy your Olson.

[Chedeng88]

Just wow! Congrats on the new O!!

[moga]

Great!!!!..

[Tone.woods]

Additional "finished" photos of the guitar.

[Simon Fay]

I've never met Jim -- but I've heard numerous stories from other builders that speak tremendously to his warmth and to his character. I think part of why the lutherie community is so friendly is due to the Olson legacy and his kind and sharing spirit.

Congratulations on your very beautiful instrument!!!

[Glennwillow]

Congratulations on a beautiful guitar! And how very cool that you got to meet Jim Olson and appreciate him as a person.

I have a used Olson SJ, cedar/EIR, not particularly ornate, from 1995 which I purchased from another AGF member. I value it highly and really appreciate it every time I play it.

- Glenn

[mesa]

Beautiful guitar!

[StringMeUp]

Congratulations!