Otto Vowinkel - Concert Model 2026

Otto Vowinkel – Concert Model 2026

Otto Vowinkel’s journey as a luthier began in 1984 in the attic of his Amsterdam home, guided by little more than hand tools, raw wood, and Irving Sloane’s Classical Guitar Construction. Working on an old pool table that served as his first bench, Otto devoted himself entirely to the craft. After six months of intensive work, his first guitar was completed—an achievement that marked the beginning of a lifelong pursuit of refinement, sound, and detail.

Driven by curiosity and discipline, Otto continued building, presenting each new instrument to guitarists and carefully absorbing their feedback. This iterative process shaped his approach and sharpened his ear. By the end of the 1980s, his path crossed with Dutch luthier Alex “Alejandro” van der Horst. Their collaboration was rooted in a shared vision of the ideal classical guitar: fast response, tonal flexibility, and musical depth, where sound quality outweighs sheer volume.

Today, Otto Vowinkel is internationally respected for instruments that combine traditional construction with a deeply personal aesthetic. Born and raised in Amsterdam in a family of tailors, his attention to detail is evident in every aspect of his guitars. The rosette incorporates the iconic motif of the Amsterdam flag, while the headstock carving reflects the façade of his workshop—subtle signatures of origin and identity.

Sonically, Otto Vowinkel guitars are known for their clear vibrato, singing trebles, and profound, well-defined basses. They are physically light, highly responsive, and exceptionally comfortable to play. Built in a traditional manner and finished with French-polished shellac, his concert guitars offer even tonal color, excellent projection, and precise intonation.

Musicians around the world praise these instruments for their immediacy and depth, noting how they continue to open up and mature over time. Each guitar reflects Otto Vowinkel’s unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and his belief in the expressive power of a truly well-made classical guitar.

Specifications
Guitar: Otto Vowinkel – Concert Model 2026
Top: Spruce
Back & Sides: Cocobolo
Tuners: Alessi
Case: Hard guitar case