Artinger 25th Anniversary Hollow Body Custom

A Word From Matt Artinger
"On my anniversary one-offs, I always like to incorporate some of my tools, along with a statement, into my inlay scheme. The rear of the 25th is based on 2 Angel wings which are hand cut from bookmatched figured white Pearl (which, by being bookmatched, they reflect exactly the same when moved in the light). The angel wings represent the wonderful fortune of being able to hit the 25 year mark, and they're accompanied by a divider and carving chisel underneath in silver and rosewood (some of my most used daily tools), and a resin and silver banner that spans the years of 1997 (first year in business - and 2022, the year of the guitar's completion). I also included a small Easter egg on the rear lower bout that is one of my bronze finger planes."

This instrument was created as Matt Artinger's personal celebratory guitar for his 25th anniversary in luthiery (2022). It represents the culmination of ideas developed over several years and has been part of his private collection since its completion.

The moment I opened the case of this Matt Artinger 25th Anniversary masterpiece, I knew I was in the presence of something extraordinary. This isn't just a guitar; it's a culmination of a quarter-century of visionary lutherie, brought to life in Matt's most personal statement piece to date.

The quilted maple top is simply breathtaking, with its undulating figure dancing beneath the finish like frozen waves. Those distinctive cat's eye soundholes, meticulously trimmed in luminous paua abalone, create a visual focal point that draws you in while serving the acoustic properties of this hollow beauty. The marriage of this top to the warmly figured Claro walnut back and sides represents Matt's sophisticated wood selection at its finest.

What particularly impresses me about this anniversary model is how it strikes a balance between artistic innovation and musical functionality. The flowing paua abalone purfling against the black binding creates a frame that elevates the entire aesthetic, while the custom 25th anniversary inlays speak to the significance of this instrument in Matt's journey. It's remarkable how these decorative elements never feel excessive – instead, they contribute to a cohesive artistic vision.

Ergonomically, this guitar is a joy to hold and play. The mahogany neck with its slotted headstock offers both visual distinction and tonal stability. The 25" scale length and 12" radius ebony fingerboard create a playing experience that feels immediately comfortable yet uniquely "Artinger" in character. There's a thoughtfulness to the proportions that reveals Matt's deep understanding of how a player connects with an instrument.

Tonally, the Lollar Imperial low-wind humbuckers are the perfect choice, offering a voice that's rich and articulate with exceptional dynamic range. When you factor in the coil cuts and the hidden volume and tone thumbwheels in that stunning custom ebony and aluminum tailpiece, you have an instrument capable of remarkable sonic versatility without compromising its elegance.

This guitar demonstrates why Matt Artinger remains one of the most respected independent luthiers working today. It's not just about the impeccable craftsmanship or the innovative features – it's how everything comes together in service of both the player and the music. The side-mounted inset 3-way toggle and thoughtfully placed controls reflect Matt's player-centered design philosophy, while the Waverly tuners with black pearl buttons ensure tuning stability with understated class.

Having been part of Matt's private collection since its completion in 2022, this anniversary guitar carries a special provenance. It represents not just 25 years of exceptional guitar building, but also embodies the evolution and refinement of Matt's artistic vision.

For the discerning player or collector who appreciates both historical significance and extraordinary craftsmanship, this Artinger 25th Anniversary model is a rare opportunity to own a defining instrument from a master builder's personal collection.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.