The main feature that makes this instrument absolutely unique is the bottom made of several parts joined sinuously and slightly angled to simulate the effect of the car hood also giving it a diamond effect that embellishes. This architectural solution also had positive repercussions on the sound reflection.
2) Split and relocated harmonic holes
Frontally a targeted stylistic work was done by redesigning and relocating the harmonic holes laterally to the keyboard so that they resembled the typical headlights of the most modern Rolls Royce models.
Also in this case there were positive acoustic implications, having actually increased the surface of vibrating soundboard by removing the traditional central hole.
3) Headstock
Continuing the stylistic choice of the soundboard, even the Headstock has been designed recalling the shape, seen from above, of a Rolls Royce, taking care to spread it on several planes to give it a three-dimensional effect.
4) Lateral soundport
With the intention of giving this instrument an intimist identity, I placed on the upper side a stylish sound-port, that is to say an additional harmonic hole that unlike the front ones is at the service of the performer instead of the listeners.
For this sound port a double stylistic work was done.
The upper view of this opening has the shape of the wings of the Flying Lady while on a three-dimensional level it develops internally to the instrument recalling the typical air scoop of many sports cars.
5) Ghost tuners
One of the first features that struck me when studying the lines of these cars was the sobriety and elegance of the forms that contrasted with the most advanced and modern technologies that hid.
The creation of the headstock was probably the most difficult challenge.
The tuning machines, which are intended to maintain and tune the six strings, have been completely incorporated into the palette leaving the entire back of the handle completely smooth and aerodynamic.
The total absence of screws, hinges or other opening system makes this part of the instrument particularly mysterious, letting you know that the care in the details has not been left behind.
The elegance that takes on the instrument with the absence of external mechanical parts is unmatched.
6) Metal purflings
Metal has always been the main material for car construction.
So I decided to make all the internal purflings of the top, back, sides, fingerboard, headplate, backplate and rosettes and every inlay in German Silver (traditionally used in some details of historical mandolins) that very much reminds the chrome of the car.
7) Push-Push flush strap button
The decision about making or not a hole for the strap button in a new Guitar has always been my problem for me. They are extremely useful for those who decide to play standing but for those who instead only sit represent only something unaesthetic if not a hole absolutely avoidable on an expensive instrument.
So are they to be put on or not?
Perhaps not everyone knows that one of the peculiarities of Rolls Royce cars is the presence, inside the door, a service umbrella that is ejected when necessary by pressing a simple switch.
Taking as an inspiration this uniqueness I have realized a strap button that can be recalled only if necessary.
A push-push system allows to pull out and put back in place the attachment with a simple touch of your finger.
8) Small particulars
There are other small details which are of minor importance but help to close the circle of the project, such as:
- the shape of the frets marker that as sliding doors gradually open and then close by revealing at the 12° key (position of maximum opening of the doors) the name of the guitar.
- the shape of the bridge recalls the logo of the Bentley that is part of the great family Rolls Royce.
- The overall shape of the guitar is quite angular as are the car shapes.
Sound
Taking advantage of the fact that I was making a guitar with a shape and features never used until now I decided that I would not have a better opportunity to experience a different bracings that stimulate the top in particular way.
So I designed my own personal bracing pattern.
This combination of decisions and characteristics made this instrument so unique that Maurizio Brunod in trying it decided that he would use its qualities to make his first solo acoustic guitar record..
A musical and mental journey with a six-string companion.
Thus was born “Trip with The Lady”
Further details
#TheLady, #BorghinoGuitars, #topitalianLutherie, #luxuryguitars