2021 Ellis F5 Tradition

2021 Ellis F5 Tradition model in pristine, unplayed condition.

This was the very last Tradition model made by Tom Ellis in this limited series. Based off of David Grisman's famed Loar signed Gibson F5 affectionately named "Crusher", the Tradition models featured some vintage style techniques such as hide glue construction and shellac finish as well as a unique voicing to pay tribute to the iconic instrument.

This is a masterpiece of a mandolin, with a voice as equally beautiful as the mandolin itself. A wonderful balance of rich complexity and crisp, woody pop. Even though the mandolin is virtually unplayed, it already exhibits a well seasoned tonal quality usually only present in older instruments. That will undoubtably continue to develop with even more time and playing. Perfect balance across the string courses as well as up and down the fretboard. The set up is perfect and the mandolin plays buttery smooth in all positions with no issues whatsoever. An absolutely incredible and unique instrument from one of the greatest mandolin builders of our time.

Adirondack spruce top, Sugar maple back/sides/neck, vintage style shellac finish, hot hide glue construction, limited stylized pearl Ellis headstock inlays, vintage style triple side binding, radiused ebony fretboard w/pearl position markers, vintage style bound ebony pickguard, EVO frets, Ellis made ebony adjustable "full contact" bridge, engraved James tailpiece, Waverly tuning machines w/pearl buttons, adjustable truss rod, ebony endpin w/pearl eye, 1-1/16" bone nut. Comes with a custom Calton case bearing the Ellis logo on the stamp plate.