Oxnard M-20 switch from Satin "Varnish" to Satin Nitro Lacquer?

[Americanelli]

Hey all - planning to buy a used Oxnard-built M-20 in the near future, but I've read that they started with a Satin Instrument Varnish and then moved to a Satin NCL later. Anyone with any idea when that change happened? I'd probably be happy with either, but it would be nice to have the option of buffing out the NCL to a semi-gloss if the mood strikes me and I'm not sure that is possible with a satin varnish.

Thanks!

 

[chazmo]

I don't know the answer to your question, but await answers eagerly. I know we've discussed this before, but I don't know if we have a cutover date. You're definitely right, though, that the early models out of Oxnard used catalyzed varnish finish, not nitrocellulose lacquer. And, I agree that it seems unlikely that you can buff a satin varnish into a gloss (whereas you can with NCL).

While Guild was always forthcoming about the finish variations (kudos -- it's important), they were not so forthcoming about the neck attachment. It seems like they still aren't as I don't see this mentioned in the guitars' specs. I recall that the M-20 and D-20 use a mortise and tenon joint rather than a dovetail joint. I don't think that has changed, and I don't know if the D-20 and M-20 are the only models with M&T joints. For some reason I think the F-40 is another one...

Anyway, great question, and good luck finding the answer(s)!

 

[Wellington]

I don't know the answer to your question, but await answers eagerly. I know we've discussed this before, but I don't know if we have a cutover date. You're definitely right, though, that the early models out of Oxnard used catalyzed varnish finish, not nitrocellulose lacquer. And, I agree that it seems unlikely that you can buff a satin varnish into a gloss (whereas you can with NCL).

While Guild was always forthcoming about the finish variations (kudos -- it's important), they were not so forthcoming about the neck attachment. It seems like they still aren't as I don't see this mentioned in the guitars' specs. I recall that the M-20 and D-20 use a mortise and tenon joint rather than a dovetail joint. I don't think that has changed, and I don't know if the D-20 and M-20 are the only models with M&T joints. For some reason I think the F-40 is another one...

Anyway, great question, and good luck finding the answer(s)!

I'm pretty sure the F40 and D40 are M&T, except the Traditional models are dovetail, as well as the D55 I think.

 

[Americanelli]

Well all I know is I got to play a recent M-20 that came through my local shop and I came away very impressed. Unfortunately it was the natural finish and I’m really looking for a burst, or I may have tried to take it home. I’m also curious if they drill the end pin and saddle to accept electronics in all models or only the ones with pickups installed at the factory. I would think it makes more sense to just do them all the same way, but who knows…

 

[chazmo]

Good luck in the hunt, Americanelli

 

[SFIV1967]

Oxnard changed to 100% nitrocellulose for all models in early 2020.

Ralf

 

[chazmo]

Hey, Ralf, do you know if they use their nitro spray booth to do any of Cordoba's own brand? I.e., did they switch over on the classical end as well? Just curious. Big investment to do NCL in southern CA, that's for sure.

 

[marius]

It is possible to buff the varnish

Polished the top

Polished the top on my M20 burst...

letstalkguild.com

 

[chazmo]

It is possible to buff the varnish

Polished the top

Polished the top on my M20 burst...

letstalkguild.com

Excellent! Well, there you go, Americanelli... It can be done!

 

[SFIV1967]

Hey, Ralf, do you know if they use their nitro spray booth to do any of Cordoba's own brand? I.e., did they switch over on the classical end as well? Just curious. Big investment to do NCL in southern CA, that's for sure.

Looks like. Look at the specs of the Oxnard made Cordoba Guitars. The first 3 on that page show "Nitrocellulose". The second and 3rd row show French Polish or Polyurethane.

Córdoba Guitars Official Site

We seek to guide the evolution of the nylon string guitar, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern developments.

www.cordobaguitars.com

Ralf

 

[chazmo]

Man, those are gorgeous!

 

[SFIV1967]

Man, those are gorgeous!

I almost have the feeling they used some of the old New Hartford wood from the Doyle Dykes models!





Ralf

 

[chazmo]

^ Could well be, Ralf.

 

[Americanelli]

Thanks for the info, all! Anyone with an Oxnard M-20 without electronics that’s looked under the saddle to see if it’s drilled to accommodate a pickup? If probably be installing an l.r baggs anthem so I may be able to save a few $$ and buy one without electronics if they come from the factory ready to have a pickup dropped in.

 

[marius]

I’ve not looked under the saddle, but I would not expect to find it drilled. They do not come with the end pin drilled for electronics. They fit a standard tapered end pin and would need to be drilled/reamed to accept and end pin jack.

 

[Americanelli]

Hey all, just to follow up on this, I contacted Cordoba directly and they confirmed the regular m-20 is not drilled for a 1/4 at the end pin or at the saddle for an UST.