If you're looking for a guitar that sounds like old times, this is it. I purchased this guitar from Spruce Tree Music in Madison, WI, in 2011. Behold, a Regal Custom Built Style 5 guitar, the top of their "custom built" line. This exact guitar is pictured in Bob Carlin's book "Regal Musical Instruments: 1895-1955." (see photo). The late Tony Klassen told me this guitar belonged to Mr. Carlin at one point (I haven't confirmed this).

Unlike most of the Regal instruments you come across, these were built with top-grade materials by experienced builders as Regal attempted to go head to head with Martin. The Style 5 is most comparable to a Martin O-18.

Adirondack top, Indian rosewood back and sides, in very good condition for its age.See photos for some finish chips and dings, finish checking, and a long mark on the butt around the end pin that appears to be finish only (EDIT: I took a good, long look at that mark last night and I just can't tell with absolute certainty if it goes into the wood. I pressed gently on either side of the scar and there was no movement. It hasn't changed in the fifteen years I've owned the guitar. I wouldn't go bouncing it up and down on the endpin, but if it goes into the wood it's entirely stable at this point, and causes zero issues). Lots of cosmetic wear, none that causes any issues, Note the tight top and back seams.

It's the lightest steel string guitar I've ever held, and the tone is excellent, sweet and clear projection up and down the neck and volume to spare. It sounds like old times in a way that modern guitars are hard pressed to emulate. Nice wide neck with a pronounced V shape. A fingerpicker's dream.

There was an issue with the original tuners shortly after I bought it and I replaced them with aged repro tuners. Spruce Tree repaired the old tuners but I've left the modern ones on because they look good and work well. The originals (pictured) have really cool buttons and will be included.

Link to video: youtube.com/watch?v=GO5AcdYLU40


Non-original hardshell case included. Smoke-free home, if that matters to you. Please feel free to write with questions.

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