Olivier Planchon - 2023
Olivier Planchon - 2023
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
Shipping important note
Shipping important note
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Details about GPSR
Details about GPSR
Video overview
More details about the guitar
About the luthier
Born in 1961, Olivier Planchon discovered the classical and flamenco guitar at 13. After studying at the École Supérieure d’Art Graphique de Paris, he was a freelance artistic director in communication and publishing. In 1999, he gave himself five years to design and build concert guitars and began an informal apprenticeship with his friend Daniel Lesueur, who introduced him to Daniel Freiderich. Encouraged by these two renowned luthiers, Olivier set up a workshop near Paris where he made his first concert guitars. In 2007, he was awarded the title of “Meilleur Ouvrier de France”. Since 2008, he has worked in the hinterland of Nice, setting up a large workshop with his partner, the ceramic sculptor Karine Benvenuti. A few words about his background and his Philosophy:“Daniel Lesueur taught me about the love of labor in search of perfection. Having been himself apprenticed by Daniel Friedrich, he shared his secrets and those he had learned from his «master». To dive into the imagining and manufacture of a classical guitar seems something of mystical initiation. The utmost in concentration is required to follow along the long path arriving at, perhaps, a «great» instrument. My idea of a great instrument, first of all, is true to my tastes, more so than passing fashions. Throughout my research, I’ve tried to find the answers to problems my mentors could not explain. As in all artistic works, the questions are never-ending, and in that is the joy of the craft – every day brings a fresh discovery. Humility before the breathing material and the absolutes of acoustics linked to these variegated woods is the core of the luthier trade. I feel somewhat like a sculptor in sound.”
About the guitarh2> The Planchon guitar, numbered 226, showcases the deft artistry and unparalleled craftsmanship of its creator, Olivier Planchon. Crafted with an exquisite spruce soundboard and backed with striking Cocobolo, this instrument embodies a stunning blend of aesthetic sophistication and acoustic superiority. The rosettes of Planchon, particularly the one featured on this guitar, testify to his exceptional and distinctive craftsmanship. Its simplicity belies the labor-intensive process behind its creation. The rosette is painstakingly hand-carved, a time-consuming effort demonstrating Planchon’s dedication to the craft. In terms of acoustics, this guitar truly stands out. Its potent volume and precise tone clarity are striking features that set it apart. The sound essence can be lush and dense, rendering it an instrument that sings with remarkable elegance. This distinct sonic quality is a testament to Planchon’s meticulous understanding and application of acoustic physics and design, signifying his mastery of the craft. The X bracing system, combined with fan bracings, is a noteworthy structural feature of this guitar. This hybrid approach ensures a rich and full-bodied sound that is pleasing to the ear while also supporting the instrument. In conclusion, Planchon’s guitar number 226 amalgamates aesthetic appeal, craftsmanship finesse, and superior sound quality. Each feature, from its choice of materials to its unique bracing system, makes this instrument an excellent demonstration of Planchon’s commitment to creating top-tier guitars.
Regular care extends the life of the instrument
Even with careful use, a classical guitar may gradually change in appearance or respond to unstable storage conditions. Have a close look at your guitar regularly and be attentif to changes. If your instrument is suffering from its environement, it will let you know.
Protect Your Guitar: Handle with Care
Be mindful when touching your instrument with greasy or unwashed hands: any skin contact is a small attack on the varnish. Of course, a guitar is made to be played, but taking a few precautions helps preserve its beauty: wash your hands before playing, wear long sleeves, and avoid unnecessary direct skin contact with the body of the instrument.
Pro tip: Avoid playing with a button-up shirt, heavy jewelry, or a belt, as these can scratch the guitar. Also, make sure your guitar case is free of any objects that could damage the instrument during storage.
String care
A good habit to adopt is wiping down your strings briefly after each playing session. This small action significantly extends their lifespan and helps maintain a consistent, comfortable feel under your fingers.
Most importantly, clean strings are essential for keeping your instrument in tune. Corrosion, sweat, and dust can affect the uniformity of the strings and interfere with accurate tuning across the entire fingerboard.
Pro tip: If you're having trouble getting your guitar in tune, it might be time to change the strings. A useful test is to compare the pitch of the 12th fret harmonic with the fretted note at the 12th fret; if there's an unusually large gap between them, your strings may have lost their integrity and should be replaced.
Keep Your Shellac Finish Shining!
Got a guitar with a shellac (French polish) finish? Here's a simple trick: Take a clean microfiber cloth and gently breathe on the surface to create a light mist. Then, softly rub to remove fingerprints, sweat, and grease. That’s usually all it takes to keep it looking great, no products needed!
Pro tip: Every few years, treat your guitar to a check-up with a luthier to keep it in top shape.
Storing Your Guitar: Climate Matters
Your guitar can safely stay outside its case, as long as the surrounding environment maintains 42–55% humidity and a temperature between 18–25°C.
Keep in mind that humidity levels can still fluctuate inside the case, especially during seasonal changes.
- Too much humidity may cause overtightened strings and a dull tone.
- Too little humidity can lead to a bulging top, string buzz, or even cracks.
Avoid placing your guitar near radiators, air conditioners, or windows with direct sunlight.
Pro tip: Always close your guitar case while playing. This helps preserve a stable microclimate inside the case, so your instrument is protected the moment you put it back in.