Some times the experts aren't. I was browsing the Elderly website recently and came across a newly listed New Hartford F 50R priced $500 to $700 under what I would expect. The description said all the braces were loose and needed attention. I bought the guitar and had it shipped to Tom Jacobs who informed me the bracing was just fine with no issues. He did a nice set up and shipped it back to me.
Before this purchase I had 2 F 50R's. One, a 2008 from Tacoma that I bought new (doesn't happen often) and one a 1974 Westerly build. I sold the Westerly to Tristan and am back to 2 F 50 R's with the New Hartford addition. The guitar is in excellent condition. It has a Fishman pup of some sort that works like a charm. So, all in all, it worked out great. Here's a few pics:
As a side note I'd also sent a superb Martin D 41 to Tom for a wellness check and set up. That came back today as well. Tom told me it was one of the best, if not the best D 41 he's ever played. I wouldn't argue with him, it is a keeper for sure.
Before this purchase I had 2 F 50R's. One, a 2008 from Tacoma that I bought new (doesn't happen often) and one a 1974 Westerly build. I sold the Westerly to Tristan and am back to 2 F 50 R's with the New Hartford addition. The guitar is in excellent condition. It has a Fishman pup of some sort that works like a charm. So, all in all, it worked out great. Here's a few pics:
As a side note I'd also sent a superb Martin D 41 to Tom for a wellness check and set up. That came back today as well. Tom told me it was one of the best, if not the best D 41 he's ever played. I wouldn't argue with him, it is a keeper for sure.