Handmade guitars in the UK - anybody has got suggestions on different luthiers?

Andrea Vergani

I am looking into buying a handmade GJ guitar, moving up from my Dell'Arte Robin Nolan.
I came across some names (JWC, Alex Bishop, Ian Meredith) but I was wondering if anybody has specific recommendations and comments on the quality of guitars made by UK luthiers.

wim

Nothing against English luthiers, but it's only a 2.5 hours train ride to see many of the best gypsy guitars in the world - don't be shy to widen your horizon a little..

Brad Herman

I love my JWC is all I can say... When doing my research, mostly everyone said it was easily the best deal in the GJ guitar world. Since getting mine, I have zero complaints and am in love with it.

crookedpinky

I can't say enough about Alex Bishop and his guitar making skills. Easily the best by far for me. I've tried Eimers, Le Voi's, and a heap of others. I also tried a JWC F hole at the weekend and that was another cracker for the money. And Stuarts Aylward is another cracker.

ConorF

As per Stuart's post, all three make great guitars.

I'm the JWC agent for the North West of England.

I also live very near Ian Meredith and we're very good friends. If you live in the North West you'd be more than welcome to come and try a few guitars.

I'd be happy to arrange for Ian to come over and bring a few of his guitars also.

Conor

Jazzaferri

I have played Stuart's Aylward too and it is indeed a lovely instrument Very responsive as I recall

Andrea Vergani

Thanks everybody for your comments - as far as the trip to Paris, it's not just 2 hrs and half indeed Also I think the problem with gipsy jazz guitar is that they are difficult to find so I would be more than happy to promote local luthier as well! Thanks Conor F, I have been in touch with Ian, I am based in London and I am not sure when could I come up north. Been thinking to jsut go for it and get one guitar A bit risky but that is also what I ahve done with my Dell'Arte. If I like that one I bet I would love any handmade guitar

ConorF

Andrea, you'd not go wrong with Ian Meredith. As Stuart has just posted his latest is a real beauty!

Hope I'll hear it on Friday when I'm jamming with him :-)

Andrea Vergani

Oh well, I have just gone for it, guitar has been paid and I should receive it next week! If you guys are gonna meet up with Ian, tell him that I am really excited and I am looking forward to play his guitar! Andrea, the guy from London. He will know I will post again as soon as I will try it!

Buco

Is it the one from the picture?

ConorF

Hi Andrea, that's great. I heard the guitar on Friday and its ace! Enjoy :-)