Sam Koontz Joe Cinderella Custom 8-String - USA 1980

Here is an exceptionally rare Sam Koontz Custom 8-string archtop, built around 1980 for New York jazz guitarist Joe Cinderella and believed to be the final instrument Koontz completed. A highly individual luthier, Koontz produced only around one hundred guitars in his lifetime and was regarded in the 1970s as one of America’s leading archtop builders. This guitar reflects a direct collaboration between builder and player, created to serve a very specific musical vision rather than a standard production idea.

This example showcases Koontz’s distinctive design language, including the signature side scroll headstock and matching upper bout scroll. The build quality is exceptional throughout, with high-level binding and mother of pearl work, and a dual truss rod system developed to support the demands of an 8-string neck. The solid koa body adds density and sustain, contributing to a strong, focused voice. The electronics system is equally unique, later modified by Tom Doyle, who designed a one-off low impedance pickup setup with a step-up transformer, delivering a wide tonal range and exceptional clarity.

Condition is excellent for a one-of-a-kind instrument of this era, with the structure remaining stable and the neck notably unchanged over time. It is accompanied by documentation including interview material, correspondence regarding the electronics, and purchase records. Supplied in an oversized hard shell case, this is a significant and highly individual piece of American archtop history, combining rare craftsmanship, innovative design and genuine artist provenance.

Specifications: 

Year: 1980
Country: USA
Model: Sam Koontz Custom 8-string Archtop (Joe Cinderella)
Body: Solid Koa
Pickups: Custom low impedance pickups by Tom Doyle (step-up transformer system)
Case: Oversized hardcase (modified bass case)