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1997 Monteleone Electric Flyer
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Serial #: 174 Body signed by the maker, 1-31-97
Finish: Amber blonde, nitrocellulose type
Body size at lower bout: 16" Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut width: 1 13/16" Body depth: 2 7/16"
Materials: Arched tiger flamed laminated maple body; one-piece solid maple neck with adjustable truss rod; ebony fingerboard; tiger maple bound body.
Hardware: Solid Macassar ebony pickguard, compensated bridge and tailpiece; gold Schaller tuners with ebony buttons; gold humbucking pickup.
Notes: We've often observed that an unusual number of our favorite archtop builders got their start by carving mandolins. It can't be coincidence that the extraordinary skill set required to graduate and tap tune a mandolin soundbord should translate handily towards the building of an archtop guitar. Legendary luthier John Monteleone began his career restoring instruments for Mandolin Brothers in the early 70's, where he had the invaluable opportunity to study the craftsmanship of many of the greatest vintage guitars and mandolins, literally from the inside out. For the last quarter century, Monteleone's brilliant updating of the F-style mandolin has remained the single most sought after version of the instrument since the Lloyd Loar original. Since the mid-'90s John has devoted his focus chiefly to the guitar, producing some of the most spectacular and highly prized archtops built today.
This instrument is the first example in Monteleone's Electric Flyer series. The Flyer follows the tradition of the pioneering electric guitars built by Jimmy D'Aquisto for such luminaries as Jim Hall, Joe Pass and other celebrated players of the 60's and 70's. With a slimmer depth body of extravagantly figured custom maple laminate, the Flyer offers the discriminating player a design that is comfortable to hold, has excellent sustain, and resists feedback at a variety of volume levels. At just 6lb. 2oz., the Flyer is significantly lighter than a typical ES-175, and the open headstock reduces neck mass for better balance in the lap and on the shoulder. The generous 1 13/16" nut width is ideal for both finger and pick style play, and the neck profile is a sublime gentle D. The tone is smooth, sweet and warm as can be, with excellent balance and clarity.
This example is in immaculate condition, without cracks, pick, buckle, thumb or fingerboard wear, with all original blonde finish and ebony hardware. The original owner requested that the strap button be moved from the side to the heel area, which the builder performed in his usual immaculate style. Monteleone's wait list has been closed now for some time, and is currently backed up over 42 months. John's guitars are rarely parted with by their owners, and this is a rare opportunity to acquire an instrument of musical as well as historical significance.
Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge flatwound nickel strings. The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief for acoustic playing with medium strings. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.
Case: Original deluxe hardshell case.
