Joined:
September 2002
Posts: 153
| Unfortunately, the bridge has been changed, as this is a 1970's walnut bridge. It is not a prototype, as the walnut bridges did not appear until post-1969 when importation of Brazilian rosewood became cost prohibitive for production guitars. All of the early 12-strings have the winged Brazilian rosewood bridge, which appeared in various unstandarized sizes from 1967-68 until approximately 1969-70, depending on the guitar.
All of the white paper labels (up until around 1971-72) say: "Patent Applied For", so this is no indicator of specific age. However, this guitar does have the Bloomfield, CT label which predates the New Hartford, CT label, with the word "Balladeer" inked in. This is a pretty cool factor, along with the fact that it has a three piece top. Most of the 1968 12-strings have a two piece top.
Other than the changed bridge, the guitar appears to be original, and the tuners are correct period Klusons. The case also appears to be an original Ovation archcraft case; however, it is difficult to tell by photos. The colors are right, though.
Regarding value, these go from $250 to $1,000,
depending on condition and demand. Mandolin Brothers has offered Serial # 2962 at $1,541 for over twenty years with no takers. |
Value Please (12 String)
