One hundred years ago, the archtop mandolin was still a relatively new instrument. This new style—with its carved top and carved back—was spearheaded by a clever luthier named Orville Gibson. In July 1917, the Gibson Mandolin-Guitar Co. opened production in its new location at 225 Parsons Street in Kalamazoo, Michigan. From that location, Gibson would go on to build first the most iconic mandolins and then later some of the most iconic guitars ever made in the United States.
This Gibson A-2 rolled out of the famous Parsons Street factory in Kalamazoo in 1918. In those days, the Gibson mandolin design was rapidly evolving—somewhere in between the turn-of-the-century old time mandolins and Lloyd Loar's F-5, which would introduce the critical bluegrass sound. This A-2 features the classic A-model teardrop shape with a carved Spruce top, carved Maple back, and a bound oval soundhole.
At some point along the way, this A-2 was restored and brought up to a modern level of playability and functionality. It has been refinished with a natural lacquer finish, and the peghead now sports a gorgeous sunburst finish that makes the "The Gibson" inlay pop. Before refinishing, an area of severe pickwear was repaired on the top on the treble side of the soundhole (see photos). Then, this A-2 was setup with a proper intonated adjustable bridge—a design Gibson didn't use until 1921, but has now become considered standard on a mandolin. On top of that, this A-2 has also been refretted, and the fingerboard was given a super-playable 16" radius. Add Golden Age Restoration tuners, and here is a 107-year-old mandolin updated to function, play, and perform like something brand new.
But as we all know, there is a rich, nuanced sound you can only get from authentic worn-in instruments made years ago. This 1918 A-2 produces a throaty, round tone perfectly suited for old-time and traditional styles of music. Thanks to the restoration work, it plays nicely and will compete with more modern instruments. The refinish imparts a vibe and character all its own. This 1918 Gibson A-2 indcludes a high-quality Reunion Blues gig bag.