Pls Advise 1st GJ Guitar - used Gitane D-500 or Pierre Fontaine

pirambaba · April 2021

Found a couple of interesting used guitar for my first gypsy jazz style instrument, and would like to ask your advice. Which one would you take?

1- Pierre Fontaine, reportedly bought in the Paris, Rue Rome shop a few years ago, built late 90s or early 2000s, heavy play wear, appears cosmetic only, needs a setup to lower the action (a little concerned as it doesn't seem to have a truss rod and I'm not looking for a 'project guitar'). Having said that, I've got a good feeling about this one! ;)

2- Gitane D-500, used, very good condition. Perhaps a safer choice...

Both about the same price, USD850.

Can't play both, very long drive, would try and confirm upon pickup.

Attached some pictures.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

juanderer · April 2021

If you go with your gut make sure to ask for a discount for that separated binding. I think you'll get more mileage out of that one than the Gitane (but this one would be easier to play because of the scale).

pirambaba · April 2021

Thank you, juan. Certainly leaning towards the Pierre Fontaine!

Good eye on the binding, thanks!

plexi69 · April 2021

I would go for the Fontaine over any Asian import. Even if it needs a little work at first I think it would be a much better choice.

Bones · April 2021

$850 sounds kinda high for a used D500??

stuology · April 2021

To be honest, as a first guitar, I'd pass on both. The Pierre Fontaine looks beat up to me, you never really know what you're getting with 30-year old guitars. I'd take a look at what Michael is selling new - there are some decent Alta Mira's at 850 and if you can push your budget by a couple of hundred there's a lot more to choose from, including the Eastman.

plexi69 · April 2021

There’s a difference between beat up and played. The Fontaine looks played which means someone liked it which means it probably sounds good! If you chose not to buy the Fontaine, please pm where it is as I am interested in buying it myself. Thanks.