National Triolian Tenor Resonator Guitar (1929) Polychrome/Wood/Surfer Graphic

Description

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National Triolian Model Resophonic Tenor Guitar (1929), made in Los Angeles, serial # 580, Polychrome lacquer with decals, laminated wood body, basswood neck. Finish checking only with seams showing–there are no body cracks or repairs. The paint on the back of the neck in spite of the appearance is well attached–no paint comes off when sliding a hand up and down the neck.
This is the very early version of National's Triolian Tenor guitar with a wooden body (instead of the more common steel used by 1930) and the unusual male surf rider graphic on the back. The sound is deeper and mellower than the common steel version, and this is a much rarer guitar.
The basswood neck is straight and solid. However, modern tension steel strings do affect the intonation if tuned up to standard tenor. This is because a) no truss rod and b) modern strings put more tension on the neck. Though obviously well played, the fretboard isn't pitted–only paint is worn off exposing wood.
For maximum playability and to keep the patina of the guitar (rather than having the fingerboard replaced), I have Aquila Nylgut Reds on it. The guitar sounds great and is fully playable to the 12th fret.
Overall length is 34 in. (86.4 cm.), 12 3/4 in. (32.4 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm.) in depth at side, taken at the end block. Scale length is 23 in. (584 mm.). Width of nut is 1 1/8 in. (29 mm.). Quite a bit of finish wear and flaking overall (mostly on the neck and fingerboard) but the guitar is all original and unaltered.
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