2014 AJL Model 503 XO (Left Handed)

Many are surprised to find that some of the best Selmer Maccaferri style guitars in the world are not built in Paris, but rather in the far north of Finland by the skilled luthier Ari-Jukka Luomaranta. Made famous by the legendary Swedish guitarist Andreas Oberg, AJL guitars have found their way into the hands of Gypsy jazz guitarists worldwide. AJL is known for his meticulous attention to detail, deep knowledge of traditional building techniques, and replica hardware which is second to none.

This is AJL's most popular model to date, the XO which features a special heat treated Thermotimber spruce top that simulates the tonal qualities of vintage instruments. Additionally, the guitar is antiqued with a vintage finish, reliced hardware, and faux dings, scratches, etc. The result is a guitar which looks and sounds like a mature sixty-year-old instrument.

The design is pure Selmer, with a 15 3/4" body, 670mm scale, spruce top, Brazilian rosewood back and sides, and a walnut neck with the traditional grafted headstock. This guitar is outfitted with AJL's beautiful vintage tailpiece and closed tuners. The interior is lacquered and the top features a heat bent pliage.

This 503 model is based on the unique Selmer that Django played. Hence, it has only four internal top braces which produces a darker, warmer tone that you hear on some of Django's most famous recordings.

AJL certainly succeeded in making this instrument sound "old" as it has the clarity and dryness that one rarely hears in new instruments. Not often do I hear a new guitar that produces the strong, clear fundamentals that this one does. If you're looking for an instrument with definition and punch than this is it.

This used example is excellent condition with just a few very small dings and some light fret wear. There is also a small part of the binding around the cutaway which is slightly discolored. Otherwise, it's very clean and "new" looking!

This guitar comes with one of AJL's amazing ultra slim, ultra strong flight cases. It's so small you'd hardly believe the guitar could fit in there...and is so strong that Andreas can stand on it with out damaging the guitar inside (I'm serious, he tried it).