Maton Premier Archtop Preowned 1947

This Maton Premier 45A dates to 1947 according to Maton’s serial number records, which makes it a guitar from only the second year of Maton production. Founded in Melbourne in 1946 by Bill May and his brother Reg, Maton went on to become Australia’s most celebrated guitar maker, and instruments from these earliest years are rarely seen. An archtop built in the very first years of the company’s history, this is a genuine piece of Australian guitar heritage, ideal for collectors, jazz players, and anyone who values the story behind an instrument as much as the sound.

The 1947-built guitar is in incredible condition for its age. The original tuners have been replaced with vintage gold Grovers at some point, a sympathetic upgrade for reliable tuning, and the original tuner holes have been neatly filled. The original finish has been polished but otherwise appears to be original, so the guitar retains the look and feel of an instrument that has aged naturally over nearly eight decades. This small-bodied, short-scale archtop has an incredible vibe, and would make a wonderful couch guitar or for adding some real vintage character to recordings. It plays wonderfully with a buzz-free medium action, and has a clear, punchy and characterful tone that makes it hard to put down. Includes non-original case.

Features

• Dated to 1947 by Maton serial number records, from the second year of Maton production.
• Archtop construction from the earliest era of Australian guitar making, with the character and resonance of a vintage Maton.
• Vintage gold Grover tuners replace the originals for reliable tuning, with the original tuner holes filled.
• Original finish, polished but otherwise appearing original, keeps the guitar’s authentic vintage look.
• Great condition for its age, a rare chance to own an early piece of Maton history.

• Model: Maton Premier 45A
• Year: 1947 (per Maton serial numbers)
• Body: Archtop
• Tuners: Vintage gold Grover (replacement, original holes filled)
• Finish: Original, polished
• Electronics: None
• Made in: Australia (Melbourne, Victoria)