Jim Olson Class of 2018 Update
 

I posted this info on an unrelated thread in the General forum, but thought folks here might enjoy the info. I had a chance to correspond with Jim Olson today, just to see how he was doing. He is well, and he sent me a picture of his "Class of 2018". He appears to only be doing 19 guitars this year - 11 florentine cutaways and 8 regular SJ's. He told me they are all BRW's, except one he is building for himself - a "Tree" mahogany.

Three interesting things - his output of under 20 guitars seems down even from last year; he is building a guitar for himself; and he chose "The Tree" mahogany for his own guitar.

Steve

Doubly-glad!
 

Doubly-glad to have a The Tree Olson!

Where is said picture?

Here you go!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...b3e5e9dffa.jpg

Thanks for the Olson update.

Slight clarification - further correspondence with Jim indicates that the Tree SJ he is building isn't pre-sold, so he's building it for "himself" - it's one he may keep around the shop for visitors to see/play, but it doesn't sound like retirement is imminent.

I hope he has a good insurance policy for his work shop. That is one heck of an expensive inventory.

Cincy

When my friend and I visited Jim's shop to see my 40th Anniversary Olson, we were both shocked to hear that Jim has never kept one of his guitars just for himself. I don't believe his kids have one either, if my memory is correct. We both played

Jim and Sue were the music leaders at their church for several years, and both talented performers in their own right.

I believe Jim built 28 or 29 guitars last year, so expecting him to continue building less guitars, and especially less custom orders than in the past. The weight of "having" to produce a certain number a year, has him enjoying his new golf passion and free time more than ever.

Thanks for the 2018 update.

Fantastic. Goodness gracious.

Thanks for posting. An Olson has always been on my wish list but as I near retirement, it is not a practical consideration. I am happy that he is still building guitars and slowing down to accommodate his other passions.

As an aside, I do have a custom guitar order in with Sparky Kramer and the wait is about 18 months or so in part because he only does so many builds a year and also likes to have time to follow his other interests such as skiing. But it will be worth the wait just as waiting for one of these Olson beauties will be for the lucky owners.

Best,
Jayne

Looks like that Olson "The Tree" guitar is for sale.

A measly $55K apparently. :)

I saw that guitar as an in-progress build when visiting Jim's shop last year. It was more beautiful than the photos can convey. Amazing guitar, from a true master. :up:

...and.... it's sold!

Whew, those are gorgeous instruments. Glad to see Mr. Olsen still has the “fire” burning.