1972 Manuel Velazquez (U.S.A.)  650 mm scale, 53 mm nut, German spruce Hazelfichte top, Brazilian rosewood sides and back, all original spirit varnish, engraved gold plated Landsdorfer tuning machines with real MOP buttons.  There are no cracks or repairs on this instrument, it is entirely original, but there is considerable playing wear and fading of the original spirit varnish clearly visible in the usual points of body contact.  In addition, the spirit varnish has now taken on a crackle pattern all over the instrument, especially on the top.  Additionally, the neck is stained dark from skin oil penetration, the natural result of 40 years of professional playing, none of this having any musical effect, it is strictly cosmetic and the natural progression of age.  In terms of sound, this is the classic Velazquez model which is very closely based on the post WW II instruments of Hermann Hauser Sr., so except for the rather large neck, this guitar could easily pass for a Hauser guitar of the late 1940s if the label were missing.  It is very clear, colorful and has a really wide dynamic range, with all musical aspects very controllable by the player.  These Velazquez instruments are noted for their ease of expression on the part of players, they are so wonderfully responsive to the slightest variation of touch or hand position.  Don Manuel, who many consider to be the Dean of American luthiers is sadly no longer with us, but his legacy lives on in his beautifully crafted instruments which exude integrity with every note.  $13,500