Stauffer style guitar needs restoration. Any clues on the maker?

[Fren Asken]

This came in the other day and I'd love to figure out who the maker is. Any clues?



Here is what's left of the label. "W. Van..." -something?

[Michael Lewis]

How is the neck heel shaped? What does the bracing and bridge plate look like? And the neck block?

How about a close look at the metal cover on the back of the headstock for any clues? (patent date, manufacturer, etc.)

Looks European

[David King]

There's supposed to be a Stauffer and Co Facebook page where you could post the photos and ask for info.

[Fren Asken]

Here are a couple more photos of the back of the headstock and the heel.

[Randy Roberts]

You might try ultra-violet light on that label to see if you can pick up any more information off it.

Have you stuck a scope or mirror in side yet?

[Michael Lewis]

Is the back plate overhanging the sides, or is that just an illusion?

[Thomas Wentzel]

You could also post it in the vintage section of http://www.umgf.com, lots of knowledge over there. Looks worthy for restoration regardless of the maker. Tom

[Michael Lewis]

Nicely engraved cover plate.

I'm not saying what this guitar is or is not, but it bears striking resemblance to Stauffer and very early Martin instruments. I suggest you contact Richard Johnston of Gryphon Stringed Instruments in Palo Alto Calif. He is an expert in these things, and a real straight shooter. Also try George Gruhn of Gruhn's Guitars in Nashville, another acknowledged expert.

I wouldn't take this too lightly as the guitar may be "historically interesting", or not. but you should find out from someone well qualified to identify it.

[David King]

It's certainly in fine shape aside from the top discoloration.

[Randy Roberts]

And please get back to us with any information you are able to find.

Man, there's just something about these old Stauffer style guitars that really gets to me. From the ice cream cone heel to the unique tuners, to the classy elegant shape, I think I fell in love with them the first time I saw a picture of one. If there was someone still making the tuners/ coverplate, I think I could build that style a long time.

[David King]

While we're on the topic of the tuners I'd love to see what's under that back plate.

[Clay Schaeffer]

" If there was someone still making the tuners/ coverplate, I think I could build that style a long time."

Rubner is making at least a cosmetic reproduction of the tuners. I'm not sure if it is mechanically the same, as the originals are a little bit different in their construction from modern tuners and Rubner doesn't show the mechanics on their site.
I have a guitar very similar to the one posted, but again, no name.

[Paul Kincaid]

Rodgers makes Stauffer style machines, but they are not inexpensive.

[David King]

Here they are: http://www.rodgers-tuning-machines.com/ ... uffer.html