12 Fret 000
Based on a 1929 000 owned by Charles Sawtelle, the 12 Fret 000 predates the dreadnought as one of the largest guitars of its era, with the bridge centered for efficient use of the soundboard.
About this guitar
The 12 Fret 000 traces back to an exceptional 1929 000 owned by Preston’s late friend and mentor Charles Sawtelle. The 12-fret neck joint centers the bridge lower on the soundboard for efficient energy transfer, and the slotted peghead increases string ramp over the nut. Built standard with a 25.4” scale (short scale on request) and available across Thompson’s full range of back/side tonewoods, with a soft cutaway offered.
Specs
| Body Shape | 12 Fret 000, based on a 1929 000 owned by Charles Sawtelle |
|---|---|
| Scale Length | 25.4 in standard (short scale available on request) |
| Top | Adirondack Spruce standard; other tops may be substituted |
| Back & Sides | Mahogany, East Indian Rosewood, Madagascar Rosewood, 5A Brazilian Rosewood, or Figured Walnut (Honduran Rosewood, Sinker/Cuban/Figured Mahogany when available) |
| Neck Joint | 12-fret neck join, slotted peghead |
| Finish | Nitrocellulose lacquer |
| Build Options | Soft cutaway available; slotted headstock +$200 |
| Tonewood Pricing | Mahogany $6,900; Figured Walnut $6,900; East Indian Rosewood $7,600; Madagascar Rosewood $9,500; 5A Brazilian Rosewood $14,500 |
Quick answers
- How much does the 12 Fret 000 cost?
- Preston Thompson Guitars lists it at $6,900 to $14,500 (USD), depending on options. Dealer and used prices vary.
- Is the 12 Fret 000 still available?
- Yes. Preston Thompson Guitars lists it as a current model that's available to order.
- Who makes the 12 Fret 000?
- Preston Thompson Guitars. Where it's built: Handbuilt by a small crew at the Thompson shop in Sisters, Oregon. It's listed here as an acoustic guitar.
- What warranty does Preston Thompson Guitars offer?
- "Thompson Guitars are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship, to the original purchaser for as long as they own the instrument. The warranty is non-transferable." Coverage is repair or replacement of defective parts. It excludes normal wear, misuse, unauthorized modifications, accidents, improper maintenance, climate damage and finish checking or cracking. Owners pay shipping and insurance both ways for authorized repairs.