Chasing Guitars - 1932 Selmer-Maccaferri

[Archie]

Hi all

I went to the guitar auctions last month and have just got round to editing the footage. I'll post the entire auction footage tomorrow.

For now I've done a short video on my experience with two 1930's Maccaferri's, that were in the auction.

The main reason for me going to the auction was to see and try these two guitars having never seen nor played one before.
It was worth the 4 hour round trip.

The 1934 example had been relatively, substantially, restored but sounded very good. Very much how you would want or expect a modern D hole to sound from a good maker.
The 1932 which was in more original condition and therefore of more interest, had the internal sound box design, which I was pleased to finally see.
My opinion of it though, is that the internal sound box only makes the guitar sound smaller and less dynamic, as one would expect.
An interesting design but not one that the guitar needs imo.

Still I hope the footage is of interest.

[Rob MacKillop]

Do you know what they sold for?

That’s quite a room! I’ve viewed their auctions, and the majority of instruments are low price and quality levels, with some very interesting high-end stuff to attract the interest. Their commission is too high, though, I think. What was your overall impression of the place?

[Archie]

Do you know what they sold for?

That’s quite a room! I’ve viewed their auctions, and the majority of instruments are low price and quality levels, with some very interesting high-end stuff to attract the interest. Their commission is too high, though, I think. What was your overall impression of the place?

Hey Rob

The 1933 sold for around £6k? A good price in some ways but it was so refinished it looked like a new guitar.
The 1932 sold for around £12K I think. That's a good price if you want that type of authentic feel and history. I was surprised with the price on both.

It's quiet because I got up early and was the first in and that was the second viewing day. I think they're changing the auction day, so there will only be one veiwing day going forwards, which will make it far more difficult to film.
The prices do seem low but as you said, the hammer price is 23% below the actual price, so I don't find it too cheap to buy there. In fact, I often find guitars are somewhat over paid for. Not due to the auction house of course but due to buyers and the excitement of an auction.

The staff there couldn't be better or more helpful. They are really nice people. Even the the back room staff.

I usually view and then bid online in the comfort of my own home, or sometimes whilst traveling. If you need any info on any lots in the future, let me know, I can always check stuff out for you and you can bid on it from Scotland. Just sign up to their online platform.
I check necks, truss rods etc.. after all, it is 'buyer beware'.

I'm just about to post the full auction video, it's rendering now in Youtube.

[Rob MacKillop]

Thanks, Archie. Good to know. Appreciated.