Zbigniew Gnatek Classical - Aus 1997

Zbigniew Gnatek is one of Australia’s most revered and in-demand luthiers in the world of classical guitar, known for crafting incredibly limited, highly bespoke instruments for elite performers. His guitars rarely surface on the secondary market, and this 1997 Custom Classical is a superb and highly collectable example of his earlier work — a rare opportunity to acquire an instrument of this calibre.

Gnatek's name carries serious weight among classical guitarists, with his instruments being favoured by respected international players such as Karin Schaupp, Slava Grigoryan, and Leonard Grigoryan. His builds are celebrated for their exceptional tonal balance, dynamic range, and impeccable craftsmanship - and because of his extremely limited annual output, each guitar is a coveted collector’s piece.

This 1997 model showcases absolutely stunning Brazilian rosewood back and sides, with striking grain and deep colouration that only decades of ageing can deliver. The top is select European spruce - responsive, articulate, and well-seasoned - providing clarity and projection without sacrificing warmth.

The level of detail is masterful: elegant purfling, refined rosette work, and a hand-carved Spanish heel construction. The ebony fingerboard remains smooth and fast, and the neck profile offers an inviting, traditional feel for serious concert players.

Tonally, this guitar is open, rich, and harmonically complex, with the kind of balance and nuance one expects from a world-class concert instrument. Notes bloom effortlessly with incredible sustain, and the low end has a beautiful woody resonance without ever clouding the mids or highs.

Playability is excellent, with a comfortable action and no structural issues. The guitar is in very good condition for its age, with light signs of wear but nothing that detracts from its beauty or performance.

This is a special instrument - not just a guitar, but a work of art and an heirloom-quality build from one of the finest luthiers working today.

Features:

Action at 1st Fret: 0.5mm

Action at 12th Fret: 3.25mm

Neck Depth at 1st Fret: 20.88mm

Nut Width: 54.07mm

Width at 12th Fret: 63.23mm

Weight: 2.08kg / 4.6lb

Year: 1997

Builder: Zbigniew Gnatek

Origin: Sydney, Australia

Top: European Spruce

Back & Sides: Solid Brazilian Rosewood

Neck: Mahogany 

Fingerboard: Ebony

Bridge: Rosewood

Scale Length: 650mm

Tuners: Premium Classical Gold 

Finish: French Polish

Case: HSC