SOLD - Sutton Archtop – Aust 1970s

SOLD

Here’s a mystery box – but quite a good one.

This is an archtop jazz guitar without any branding except the words “Sutton Guitar No 281” on the inner label. There are no other clues as to the maker, and we have not been able to find out anything about “Sutton Guitar”.

It was gifted to the current owner in the 1970s and since then has been played sporadically at home and kept in good condition. The owner believes it was made in Australia in the early 70s.

What we do know –

Laminated maple top, back and sides

Herringbone binding on top

Solid maple set neck

Rosewood fingerboard

Height adjustable compensated floating bridge on rosewood base

Trapeze tailpiece

Natural poly finish

Unique F hole design

Laminated wood pickguard

Body width – 17”

Body depth – 3 1/2”

Scale length – 25 1/2”

Nut width – 1 5/8”

Weight – 4.98 lbs

Clearly this jazzbox was well made because it has stood the test of time and remains in excellent condition. The workmanship is very good with obvious attention to detail and quality materials used.

It is actually quite a delight to play, with a medium low action, good intonation and a bright punchy sound. The tuners were replaced some years ago with a quality set of Grover Deluxe units which hold tune accurately. Truss rod works fine. 

It does not have a pickup installed, but this could be easily accomplished should a new owner wish to play it with an amp – probably a good idea !

Comes in a good quality fitted hard case in good condition.