Hancock Phantom Custom Archtop - Aus 2015

From Hancock:

'For more than 20 years we have been dedicated to handcrafting instruments, which push the boundaries of sound quality, workmanship and creativity.

Our approach to building guitars is based on craftsmanship rather than mass-production. Each instrument is unique and individually crafted from start to finish in our traditional workshop.

A passion for the craft of guitar making continues to drive us in an everlasting approach to perfection. This passion extends beyond the construction of guitars; we strive to improve our skills, traveling the world researching our craft and passing on our experience through academic writings and courses for emerging guitar makers.'

This Hancock Phantom is more than just a guitar—it's a work of art. While it delivers the same exceptional sound as our other jazz guitars, its avant-garde design sets it apart from traditional archtops.

Starting with the classic size and shape of 17" archtops, the Phantom combines minimalist aesthetics with a focus on sound and playability. Its clean lines, balanced proportions, and asymmetrical soundports replace the typical f-holes, creating a visually dynamic instrument. These design elements flow through to the headstock, which has a bold yet simple profile, perfectly complementing the body.

The subtle 'smoke sunburst' finish, paired with black African Ebony on the fingerboard, headplate, and fittings, gives the Phantom a striking, refined look. The Mother of Pearl inlays add a touch of elegance, contrasting beautifully with the ebony and enhancing the sunburst hues.

The Phantom's tone is rich and warm, thanks to traditional European Spruce and Maple woods. Its unique soundports produce distinct overtones, amplified by a slimline Kent Armstrong handwound PAF humbucker.

In as-new condition, this Phantom has spent most of its life being admired on the wall or in its case, maintaining its pristine appearance. It’s not just a leap forward in guitar design—it’s a blend of art and functionality, and we're excited to incorporate elements from the Phantom into future instruments.

Features:

Action at 1st fret: 0.25mm

Action at 12th fret: 1.75mm

Neck depth at 1st fret: 22.76mm

Nut Width: 45.21mm

12 fret width: 54.97mm

Weight: 2.82kg / 6.21lb

Model: Phantom Archtop

Body Shape: 17" archtop, asymmetrical soundports

Top: European Spruce

Back & Sides: European Maple

Neck: Maple

Fingerboard: Black African Ebony

Headplate: Black African Ebony

Finish: Smoke Sunburst Nitrocellulose lacquer

Pickups: Slimline Kent Armstrong handwound PAF humbucker

Inlays: Mother of Pearl fingerboard and headplate borders

Scale Length: 25"

Tuners: Vintage-style

Bridge: Ebony

Case: OHSC