1972 Zemaitis Acoustic Bass

a Tony Zemaitis original built for tony visconti

A master cabinetmaker of Lithuanian heritage, Antonio “Tony” Zemaitis (1935–2002) began crafting guitars in the 1960s, soon establishing himself as one of Britain’s most innovative and respected luthiers. While his client list reads like a who’s who of rock royalty, Zemaitis became especially renowned for his iconic “metal-front” electric guitars. By the early 1970s, these striking instruments could be seen in the hands of legendary Faces members Ron Wood and Ronnie Lane. Each metal-front guitar was entirely unique, elevated by the intricate hand-engraving of master engraver Danny O’Brien, whose craftsmanship gave every instrument its own unmistakable identity.

Though best known for his electrics, Zemaitis’ acoustic work was equally visionary. During the 1970s, he explored the relatively uncharted territory of the acoustic bass guitar. A field previously occupied by instruments such as the Mexican guitarrón and the rare 1930s Gibson Mando-Bass. Tony Zemaitis would go on to create extraordinary bespoke acoustic basses for musicians including David Gilmour, Ron Wood, Mike Oldfield, and Tony Visconti, further cementing his reputation as one of the most inventive and influential guitar makers in rock history.

1978 Zemaitis Acoustic Bass – David Gilmour.

Sold at Christie’s Auction House in 2009.