Jim
Custom Built, Bow-back Bouzouki
Description
Hand-crafted, bow-back bouzouki/octave mandolin created in 1991 by master luthier, Otis Tomas.
General notes: mahogany neck, ebony fingerboard, hand-carved Sitka spruce top, Pau Ferro sides, maple alternating with Pau Ferro back staves, unique hand-carved ebony tailpiece, triple-layered (ebony, maple, Pau Ferro) bridge, transparent pick guard
Specs:
overall length: 38”
body: length – 18.75”, width (max) – 14”, depth (max) – 3.75”
scale length: 24”
frets: 20 in total, neck joins the body at the 13th fret
neck width: at nut – 1.375”, at 12th fret – 1.75”
neck thickness: at nut - 0.875”, at 8th fret – 1”
The current tuning is E A D G (high pitch to low), and the stringing is similar to a 12-string guitar with octave pairs for the A D and G; the E pair comprises identical strings. This stringing style is commonly found on Greek bouzoukis, but is also popular with many Irish-style players. Alternatively, the instrument could be strung with matching strings in each pair and would in effect function as an octave mandolin. The compensated bridge “floats” facilitating fine tuning the intonation. There is an integrated, adjustable truss rod. Of note is that it’s never required attention in the 35 years that I’ve owned it. The action is superb.
This particular instrument was a custom build and is unique. The tone is rich and well-balanced with a long sustain. It has been well cared for showing only very slight signs of wear. There are a few minor hairline cracks in the finish which is not unusual for an instrument of this vintage.
Included: wide, black leather strap, Martin D35 size hard-shell case, Shatten BM-1 bouzouki pickup, Shaller lever style (short) capo. The case shows moderate signs of wear.
Please note:
- the Martin case is, of course, not designed for this instrument. It’s a snug fit, but works just fine (see photo)
- pickup installation is external with the jack unit being attached to the back-side of the tailpiece, and the piezo being attached (via double-sided adhesive) to the back side of the bridge (see photo).
Reason for selling: Back in ’91, I was in a Celtic-music band and had aspirations of becoming a bouzouki player. That never happened, at least not in any significant way. So, as difficult a decision as it’s been to consider parting with this instrument, I’ve decided to make it available to a fellow musician who can appreciate the workmanship, its playability, and stunning sound. Over the years, it has been used by several accomplished Nova Scotian musicians for recording projects. They have been very impressed and testimonials could be made available. Also, sound clips (unprocessed) can be provided on request.
The instrument was thoroughly inspected May 10, 2026 by Otis Tomas, and was assessed at $6K+. He has indicated that he’s available for any questions that you may have about the instrument, and can be reached through his website (https://www.fiddletree.com)
Resale price: $6100 (firm). No trades. Only serious inquiries please.
Can discuss shipping arrangements/costs. Please contact me (or Otis) if you have further questions.
General notes: mahogany neck, ebony fingerboard, hand-carved Sitka spruce top, Pau Ferro sides, maple alternating with Pau Ferro back staves, unique hand-carved ebony tailpiece, triple-layered (ebony, maple, Pau Ferro) bridge, transparent pick guard
Specs:
overall length: 38”
body: length – 18.75”, width (max) – 14”, depth (max) – 3.75”
scale length: 24”
frets: 20 in total, neck joins the body at the 13th fret
neck width: at nut – 1.375”, at 12th fret – 1.75”
neck thickness: at nut - 0.875”, at 8th fret – 1”
The current tuning is E A D G (high pitch to low), and the stringing is similar to a 12-string guitar with octave pairs for the A D and G; the E pair comprises identical strings. This stringing style is commonly found on Greek bouzoukis, but is also popular with many Irish-style players. Alternatively, the instrument could be strung with matching strings in each pair and would in effect function as an octave mandolin. The compensated bridge “floats” facilitating fine tuning the intonation. There is an integrated, adjustable truss rod. Of note is that it’s never required attention in the 35 years that I’ve owned it. The action is superb.
This particular instrument was a custom build and is unique. The tone is rich and well-balanced with a long sustain. It has been well cared for showing only very slight signs of wear. There are a few minor hairline cracks in the finish which is not unusual for an instrument of this vintage.
Included: wide, black leather strap, Martin D35 size hard-shell case, Shatten BM-1 bouzouki pickup, Shaller lever style (short) capo. The case shows moderate signs of wear.
Please note:
- the Martin case is, of course, not designed for this instrument. It’s a snug fit, but works just fine (see photo)
- pickup installation is external with the jack unit being attached to the back-side of the tailpiece, and the piezo being attached (via double-sided adhesive) to the back side of the bridge (see photo).
Reason for selling: Back in ’91, I was in a Celtic-music band and had aspirations of becoming a bouzouki player. That never happened, at least not in any significant way. So, as difficult a decision as it’s been to consider parting with this instrument, I’ve decided to make it available to a fellow musician who can appreciate the workmanship, its playability, and stunning sound. Over the years, it has been used by several accomplished Nova Scotian musicians for recording projects. They have been very impressed and testimonials could be made available. Also, sound clips (unprocessed) can be provided on request.
The instrument was thoroughly inspected May 10, 2026 by Otis Tomas, and was assessed at $6K+. He has indicated that he’s available for any questions that you may have about the instrument, and can be reached through his website (https://www.fiddletree.com)
Resale price: $6100 (firm). No trades. Only serious inquiries please.
Can discuss shipping arrangements/costs. Please contact me (or Otis) if you have further questions.
Images:
- Ad Type: Offering
- For Sale By: Owner
Offer:
$
6100
In stock
2026-07-24
https://ohmy.ca/bridgewater/buy-and-sell/musical-instruments/amps-pedals/custom-built-bow-back-bouzouki_1959910.html
Jim
5/
5customer reviews
Category:
buy and sell | musical instruments | Amps & Pedals
2026-06-09