Hermann Hauser II #666, 1960
Spruce / CSA Rosewood
Overview
Few names in classical guitar making carry the historical importance of the Hauser workshop. The instruments built by Hermann Hauser I helped define the modern concert guitar, and the tradition was carried forward by Hermann Hauser II, whose guitars remain among the most respected and sought-after instruments ever built.
This particular example, built in 1960 and bearing the memorable serial number 666, comes from the golden period of Hauser II’s career. While the number may raise an eyebrow or two, there is nothing sinister about the guitar itself. In fact, it is one of the more enchanting Hausers encountered, combining the hallmark Hauser clarity with a depth and richness that is not always present in guitars from this workshop.
What makes this 1960 Hermann Hauser II especially remarkable becomes clear from the very first chord. The guitar possesses an unusually deep and resonant voice, driven by a main air resonance that sits between F and F#. That is exceptionally low for a Hauser II and gives the instrument a striking sense of depth and warmth while preserving the clarity, balance, and articulation for which the Hauser workshop is famous. The result is a sound that feels both expansive and refined, with basses that bloom richly and trebles that remain clear, singing, and focused.
Built with a spruce top and Brazilian rosewood back and sides, the guitar displays the refined, understated aesthetic associated with the Hauser tradition. The top has developed a beautifully darkened patina over time, and the original finish exhibits the characteristic vintage checking commonly seen on Hausers from this period.
Sound & Playability
This particular Hauser stands out even among other guitars from the same workshop.
The main air resonance sits between F and F#, making it one of the deepest tuned Hauser II guitars encountered. That unusually low resonance gives the instrument a striking sense of depth and richness in the bass register while preserving the clarity, balance, and elegance for which the Hauser name is famous.
Many Hauser guitars are admired for their sparkling clarity and brilliant trebles, but this example adds an additional layer of warmth and depth that is not always present. The basses feel expansive and resonant, while the trebles remain focused, singing, and beautifully articulate.
The overall character is deeply musical. Notes bloom easily after the initial attack and sustain with remarkable grace, creating the lyrical quality often associated with the finest examples of the Hauser tradition. In some ways, the voice even recalls the tonal character that players often associate with instruments by Hermann Hauser I.
Playability is equally impressive. The guitar features a thin, comfortable C-shaped neck paired with a low and highly responsive setup that allows the instrument to be driven with power while remaining clean and controlled. This kind of playability is surprisingly rare in vintage guitars and makes the instrument exceptionally satisfying to perform on.
Specs
Maker: Hermann Hauser II
Year: 1960
Serial Number: 666
Top: Spruce
Back & Sides: Brazilian Rosewood
Scale Length: 648 mm
Nut Width: 51 mm
Finish: Original finish with typical vintage checking on the top
Tuners: Original Landstorfer tuning machines
Condition
The guitar is in excellent condition for its age.
Minor cosmetic wear is present throughout, including small nail marks on the top and natural wear along the back of the neck from decades of playing.
The instrument has also benefited from careful professional attention. Some finish touch-ups and repair work were carried out by renowned restorer Marshall Brune, whose work, along with that of his father Richard Brune, is widely regarded among the most respected in the field of historic instrument restoration. The guitar today presents in excellent structural condition while retaining its vintage character.
There are also light surface scratches and areas of finish wear consistent with a guitar that has been actively played and enjoyed over its long life.
When a guitar plays and sounds this good, it tends to be played a lot. This one clearly was.
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