classical guitar varnish

classical guitar varnish

What type of finish should be applied to a classical guitar made before 1930?

The make is Telesforo Julve. I had to remove a poorly placed varnish that was definitely not original. I wish to return this guitar to its original state as best as I can. I wish to know what was traditional used on this type of guitar during this time period. Thank you for any suggestions and insight.
Hey thanks!!!!

This is exactly what I was thinking, mostly leaning toward the French polish. I live in Spain so I do know some people that still know how to do it, “muñeca” as they call it here. This guitar is still in good structural, some minor cracks. It is quite decorated with original MOP and other ornamentation which is all in place. Some one didn’t think that there was enough MOP so they set pearloid shapes into the fingerboard and screwed a pearloid plate over the headstock. all of which is coming off.

I’m inclined to agree with this person:

“The finish on the guitar (I’m no expert on finishes but it probably had a high gloss lacquer or french polish finish at one time) shows its age and reflects a lot of use, but I wouldn’t think of refinishing it for fear of changing the incredible sound. The scale is 660mm and it has the usual tie-end bridge. It looks just like any other old classical guitar — until you play it!”

http://reviews.harmony-central.com/reviews/Guitar/product/Telesforo+Julve/Concert+Classssical/10/1

The high-gloss lacquer is nice, but if it were me, I’d find someone who is experienced with French Polish techniques.

It’s too bad someone messed with the finish to begin with, but I’m thinking that starting from scratch, as you are, will protect the value and playability of your guitar.

Good luck!

Kabum

Handmade Classical Acoustic Guitar.avi