Gerhard Oldiges - 2019 "La Inclinacion"

Gerhard Oldiges started to build guitars in the late seventies while studying and after graduating he completed a two-year apprenticeship as a guitar maker. After that, he first worked in a guitar repair workshop and took part in a guitar making course given by José Romanillos in 1988, with whom he is still friends today and whose courses he has regularly attended since 1996. Gerhard Oldiges is intensively engaged in the history of Spanish guitar building. Thus a special focus of his work is the replication of old Spanish master instruments by Antonio de Torres, Vicente Arias, Manuel Ramírez and others.

"La Inclinación," crafted in 2019, is a guitar that stands out for its distinctive aesthetic and acoustic qualities, deriving its name from the Spanish term for "The Inclination." This name reflects the unique feature of the soundboard's grain structure, which exhibits a noticeable inclination, exposing the transversal cell structure at the surface in a way that creates a striking optical effect. The appearance of the top is enhanced by this inclination, giving it a luminous quality as if it were adorned with tiny "Bear Claws." Gerhard Oldiges, the luthier behind this exceptional instrument, chose Brazilian rosewood for the back and sides, notable for its tight, dark grain and rarity in today's market, significantly augmenting the guitar's value. The construction is further refined by a very thin seven fan bracing and double sides of Brazilian Rosewood (Cites Certified) and Mahogany, completing the exquisite craftsmanship of this remarkable guitar.

Upon playing the first note, "La Inclinación" immediately asserts itself as a guitar of exceptional caliber, with a sound that belongs in the highest echelons of musical instruments. It delivers a perfect balance and richness of tone, characterized by a powerful and clear voice that captivates listeners. The construction's lightness, especially in the top, translates into a highly responsive touch, offering a gentle and comfortable playing experience. The thin neck design facilitates challenging chord spreads and barrés, enhancing playability. Furthermore, the first string exhibits a beautiful singing quality, essential for the classical guitar repertoire, complemented by an extraordinary balance of timbre and sustain. Despite being a pre-loved instrument, it shows minimal wear and is free from any structural issues, maintaining its impeccable condition and sound quality.