This is it! The highly coveted and nearly impossible to find Enrico
Macias model Favino!! Serial #138, built in 1969 (Jacques Favino's
"Golden Period.") These
rarely come up for sale, and if they do they are never anywhere near
the extra fine condition of this example.
The Enrico Macias model was named for the famous Algerian/French singer
who gained stardom via a unique style that mixes Algerian al Andalous,
Flamenco, and 70's era pop.
This model features maple back and sides, and a shorter 670mm Selmer scale length (most Favinos have a
675mm scale). It also has a very comfortable modern neck.
This is the earliest Macias model I've seen. Unlike the later models (which have block MOP fingerboard inlays), this one has standard MOP dot markers. Looks similar to the Maple Favino Bireli Lagrene played in his youth!
A number of famous Gypsy guitarists have played maple Favinos over the
years. Bireli Largene played one in his teens and used it recently on
the CD
It's
Alright with Me . Sounds amazing! Moreno and Mondine Garcia have
also used maple bodied Macias style Favinos throughout their careers.
The tone on this guitar is just fabulous...it has a full, rounded high
end. A dark, but warm sound with lots of volume. A very rich and
satisfying tone but not wimpy at all. It's hard to find guitars that
are loud and still warm....usually the loud ones are pretty harsh. One
of the outstanding features of this guitar is the deep low end. It has
really full bass notes but they aren't too muddy or diffuse. The lower
strings have a precise definition to them that makes chordal playing a
joy!
The hardware is all original by Salvatore Bilardi.
As mentioned earlier, the Macias features maple back and sides. The
guitar has a three piece maple neck and snazzy ivoroid binding.
This is the CASH price...add 3% if you'd like to pay with a credit
card. Add 4% for international credit card orders.