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Robert Bouchet No. 88, 1962

Spruce / CSA Rosewood

Few names in classical guitar history carry the weight of Robert Bouchet (1898–1986). A French painter turned luthier, Bouchet began building guitars in the 1940s and went on to become one of the most revered makers of the 20th century. His instruments, only 154 in total, embody a poetry of sound and design that continues to inspire generations of luthiers, including Daniel Friederich and Dominique Field.

This instrument, Robert Bouchet No. 88 from 1962, represents his work at its pinnacle. It was crafted the very same year as Julian Bream’s beloved Bouchet, the guitar he famously cherished above all others and spent his life trying to replace, without success.

The Sound

Words cannot truly capture the aura of this guitar. Each string has its own distinct voice, yet they all weave seamlessly into a singular story. The palette of colors is extraordinary, lush, expansive, and alive with nuance. There is a balance here that feels almost unfathomable. Each note blooms into the room with a presence I have never experienced before.

It is the very quality of sound that legendary makers strive toward. Luminous, lyrical, and timeless. Simply put, it is one of the most breathtaking guitars I have ever encountered.

Condition

Remarkably, this instrument remains in excellent condition. There are no cracks or repairs. It has received only a repolish to match the original French polish finish which had worn away from the many years of play. Aside from some gentle clouding in the polish, it is superbly preserved, a true rarity for a Bouchet of this era.

*Please see further details of the repolish work at the bottom of this listing.

Tuners

This guitar is fitted with custom Rodgers reverse gear tuners, the finest available today, echoing the style Bouchet himself favored. Importantly, the original tuners are included with the sale. These are extraordinary in their own right: silver-plated, hand-engraved, and personally customized by Robert Bouchet with ivory kidney-shaped buttons. They are historical artifacts in themselves and a testament to Bouchet’s artistry beyond the guitar.

Legacy & Collectability

To encounter a Bouchet is to hold a piece of living history. With only 154 ever made, each instrument is treasured. But to encounter one in this condition, from this year, with this voice, is nothing short of miraculous.

This is not just a guitar. It is one of the most collectible and legendary instruments in existence. It is an honor to have it in my shop, and an even greater honor to present it to the next caretaker.

Worldwide delivery is possible, though given the instrument’s significance, hand-delivery or in-person pickup will be required.

Please find the details below of the french polish refinish.

Note from the luthier:
"I removed the original finish by diluting the shellac with alcohol with a cotton rag. It’s done centimeter by centimeter. After the finish is removed, there is a need to do a very light touch of #0000 to smooth out and clean the wood before starting the new finish. However, this does not even remove anything. It just polishes the surface even.

I would not consider this sanding.

The finish was removed with 200 proof denatured alcohol. I had to clean the top in phases with alcohol to remove all the dirt accumulated inside the pores.

Back and sides had the same treatment.

Finished with hand rubbed french polish shellac. Using the same alcohol as in the removal.

Pictures were taken before the restoration to replicate the same patina that it had developed over the years.

It is exactly the same patina color.

Some deeper nicks on the guitar were filled very carefully without sanding the original wood.