Guild Mark VII Classic

[bajones238]

I am trying to find any info I can about the top-of-the-line Classical guitar built by Guild in the 1960s-early 70s. As I understand it, the Mark VII Custom Classic was a special-order instrument. It was made in Hoboken, with Brazilian Rosewood back and sides, and a spruce top.

These guitars make a large sound. Serial numbers started with CF, same as the MK VI.

What I am trying to find out is:

1. How long were these made?
2. When did production stop? (I think it was 1971, but not sure)
3. Any other info available.

I bought #CF-244 in 1975. Shortly after I got it, I wrote to Guild, and they sent me a letter stating it was built in 1971. They did not offer any other information.

If Mr. Moust is listening: you and I briefly corresponded about this last year. You may recall, I sent some pictures.

Any help/info greatly appreciated.

Sam
Decatur, GA USA

 

[hansmoust]

I am trying to find any info I can about the top-of-the-line Classical guitar built by Guild in the 1960s-early 70s. As I understand it, the Mark VII Custom Classic was a special-order instrument. It was made in Hoboken, with Brazilian Rosewood back and sides, and a spruce top.

These guitars make a large sound. Serial numbers started with CF, same as the MK VI.

What I am trying to find out is:

1. How long were these made?
2. When did production stop? (I think it was 1971, but not sure)
3. Any other info available.

I bought #CF-244 in 1975. Shortly after I got it, I wrote to Guild, and they sent me a letter stating it was built in 1971. They did not offer any other information.

If Mr. Moust is listening: you and I briefly corresponded about this last year. You may recall, I sent some pictures.

Any help/info greatly appreciated.

Sam
Decatur, GA USA

Hello bajones238,

Yes, I remember our correspondence about your Mark VII. Actually that was January 2004. You never answered my question if it had the longer 26-1/4" scale. You still can!

Re. How long were these made?
The Mark VII was first listed in 1968 and it was no longer listed after 1973.
That automatically answers your second question.

Even though Guild stated the guitar was made in 1971 I have reasons to believe that it was more likely made in 1970; not that it makes that much difference.

Sincerely,

Hans Moust
http://www.guitarsgalore.nl

 

[bajones238]

It's been three years? I will take the measurement; I do apologize for not responding to your inquiry sooner.

Thank you for your assistance. Were these custom-built, or off the shelf?

One of my teachers (late 70s) didn't like the Guild, thought it was too "boomy", but I've always liked the big sound.

 

[hansmoust]

It's been three years? I will take the measurement; I do apologize for not responding to your inquiry sooner.

This whole Guild history thing is an on-going project, so as long as I get the info it's OK with me.

Were these custom-built, or off the shelf?

Nothing off the shelf about the Mark VII classical. It always was a 'special order' instrument.

Sincerely,

Hans Moust
http://www.guitarsgalore.nl

 

[bajones238]

The guitar does not have the longer fretboard. Measurement (from top of the hole to the nut) is 17 1/2" (445mm).

Thanks again

Sam

 

[hansmoust]

The guitar does not have the longer fretboard. Measurement (from top of the hole to the nut) is 17 1/2" (445mm).

Thanks again

Sam

Hello Sam,

Looks like we have some kind of misunderstanding here. The scale length is not the same thing as the length of the fingerboard. What I would like to know is the complete length of the vibrating string; that is the distance from the nut to the saddle.

Sincerely,

Hans Moust
http://www.guitarsgalore.nl

 

[grantgsc]

Guild Classicals

I had a music playin' buddy who had a Mark IV with Pear Wood b/s.
It was a great guitar. Anyone remember these?

 

[Darryl Hattenhauer]

Those pearwood classicals have a nice sweet tone. Almost as sweet as Coastie. Don't judge by the pearwood dreadnougats. You might like one but not the other.

Also, pearwood sometimes has an attractive figure. Almost as attractive as....