2009 Wiens Loar F5
Signed and dated on the underside of the top, this Wiens is pretty much otherwise indifferentiable from a Loar F5. Every detail and every aspect of the June 1923 Loar (serial 73682) was measured and scrutinized by the builder in researching the construction of his to-be mandolin, and this particular instrument is an amazing recreation of that original Loar-signed F5. Wiens' eye for detail is uncanny -- even the Loar signature on the recreated oval label looks like original issue; but the brand-newness of the paper (and the instrument as a whole) is testimony to the fact that this is not an original Loar, but the creation of someone who passionately, and meticulously, strives to get it right. Enjoy the photos we've provided, as they far better describe this instrument that our words are able.
Wiens was entrusted with Loar F5 #73682, dated June, 1923 previous to beginning this instrument's construction. The "June Loar," as it's known, is not dated as all other F5s are, and is the first F5 to feature the triple-bound sides seen on Bill Monroe's #73987, and others dated July 9th and later. Wiens carefully measured the top and back graduations of the June Loar, as well as the neck, peghead, scroll, and point dimensions and built this replica to within a tolerance of thousandths of an inch. For all intents and purposes, it's identically built. The top is Red Spruce, and the back and side maple shows a figure and grain similar to that June Loar. The instrument is spirit varnished and hand rubbed to perfection with a period correct sunburst hue and fade. The finish is thin and perfect. To complete the instrument, Wiens fabricated a replica pickguard, complete with Patent stamp, and used original period Gibson adjustable bridge and tailpiece body. The tailpiece cover is a hand engraved replica, and the tuners are modern with silverplated plates and pearl buttons.
The F5 is in close to new condition and perfectly adjusted. It is truly among the most finely constructed mandolins we've ever laid eyes on, and sounds exactly as you'd hope it does.
With hardshell case
On Consignment
Wiens was entrusted with Loar F5 #73682, dated June, 1923 previous to beginning this instrument's construction. The "June Loar," as it's known, is not dated as all other F5s are, and is the first F5 to feature the triple-bound sides seen on Bill Monroe's #73987, and others dated July 9th and later. Wiens carefully measured the top and back graduations of the June Loar, as well as the neck, peghead, scroll, and point dimensions and built this replica to within a tolerance of thousandths of an inch. For all intents and purposes, it's identically built. The top is Red Spruce, and the back and side maple shows a figure and grain similar to that June Loar. The instrument is spirit varnished and hand rubbed to perfection with a period correct sunburst hue and fade. The finish is thin and perfect. To complete the instrument, Wiens fabricated a replica pickguard, complete with Patent stamp, and used original period Gibson adjustable bridge and tailpiece body. The tailpiece cover is a hand engraved replica, and the tuners are modern with silverplated plates and pearl buttons.
The F5 is in close to new condition and perfectly adjusted. It is truly among the most finely constructed mandolins we've ever laid eyes on, and sounds exactly as you'd hope it does.
With hardshell case
On Consignment