Maton Guitars

Until the late 1930’s the Australian guitar manufacturing industry was virtually non existent and good quality guitars were hard to find. The best guitars, it was well understood, came from the U.S.A. Bill May, a Melbourne born jazz musician, woodwork teacher, and luthier, decided to change all that… Maton are Australia’s leading manufacturer of Acoustic and Acoustic / Electric Guitars. We pride ourselves on making the best guitars possible at a price musicians can afford! Please take some time to view our range of superbly handcrafted Guitars, Accessories and Custom Options.

851 thoughts on “Maton Guitars”

  1. maton c25/c30
    muzza

    hi anyone out there with a mint c25/c30 please call me on 0417491820, ps the person who called me around the 20/9/2013 please call back as i lost your no. regards m

  2. c25 maton classical
    murray bickley

    hi anyone out there with a maton c30 or c25 please call me on 0417491820, ps the person who called me around the 20/9/2013 please cll back as i have lost your no.

    1. Maton guitars
      Lawrence LOthian

      Hello Murray,
      I am guessing you do not stay any where near me in Fife in Scotland, never the less we have a common interest in guitars. I am the owner of a c30 which I picked up at a local antique shop a year or so ago. The serial number is 416 so I gather she is very early of the production line and unfortunately the condition reflects that, but in its favour no one has attempted any botch up repairs and I am sure a good builder could restore it to its former glory.
      I would be pleased to hear from you at the e-mail above. Yours. Lawrence.

  3. Maton AX5
    Jon B

    I have an early 70’s Maton AX5. All original, black with black pick guard, gold pick-ups, mother of pearl block inlays, normal wear and tear. White egding has yellowed a little. Plays beautifully. Would apreciate an approximate value if anyone has seen one for sale?

    1. Maton AX5
      Greg

      Hey mate,

      I purchased an AX5 for just under $1000 about 18months ago… Mine was red…. I fell on hard times and had to sell it about 3 months ago… got $1100 for it…. Mine was in great condition…

      I would love to replace it…

      could you email me on [email protected]

      Cheers

      Greg

      1. Gday Greg,

        I was in a similar situation a few years back, and it came down to parting with the guitar or the wife……
        I missed her for a while but she was easier to replace than the Maton. Thaks very much for the info!

        Jon.

    1. Supreme F210
      Greg

      This is an early 50’s Supreme F210… it is stripped of its finish.. and seems to have something strange in regards to the alignment of the tailpiece as it is covering the hole for the strap pin.

      IT would need complete restoration…

      What are you looking to do with it…

      If you can email me on [email protected] I would be keen to talk about it

      GReg

  4. Maton 12 string acoustic
    Greg

    I have a Maton F.G.150/12 serial number 820 (271).

    I am wanting to insure the guitar and wondering if someone could advise me of a qualified person to value the guitar in South East Queensland or some idea of the value of the guitar. Also could someone give me some feedback as to the build date of the guitar. It have had it repaired recently internally but it has a number of bumps and bruises, it is in no way mint condition but it has the most glorious action and tone.

    Greg

    1. Maton Guitar.
      Barry

      G’day Greg.

      I also have a Maton fg150 12. Serial number 827 (172) Which I bought in Sydney new in March/April 1972.
      On mine I have a built in pickup. The guitar is in as new condition but has chrome tuners not gold as described on the Maton history site.
      Did you manage to get a valuation on yours?

      Cheers

      Barry E

  5. Maton 1967 CW80/12 - how much to ask for it?
    ajw

    Hi folks, I have decided to sell my trusty Maton CW 80 12-string which I’ve owned since the early 70s.
    Serial number is 110. Based on that, Maton have told me the year of manufacture was 1967.
    The action is perfect, but it is has some minor body blemishes.
    The case is solid but a bit battered.

    Any thoughts on what a reasonable asking price might be?

    —-
    ajw
    [email protected]

    1. Maton 1967 CW80/12
      Anonymous

      I’ve decided to sell my Maton CW80/12…just nine years after my original post! (above)

      I had it refurbished by a luthier a few years ago, it looks and sounds great.

      If anyone here is interested (and prepared to pay a fair price) please let me know. I’ve done my research and have a reasonable idea of its value.

      Having said that, if you’ve bought or sold one recently, I would be very interested to know what the actual amount was!

      —-
      ajw
      [email protected]

    1. Hey Ross,

      Value is a sliding scale based upon how original a guitar is… condition… weather it has original case and its condition too…

      I think a starline in average to good condition should fetch around $1500… as the condition increases I would say a “museum grade” example could fetch $3500 or there abouts if it is truly mint with original case and original documentation from purchase…

      Id love to see pics…

      my email is [email protected]

      Cheers

      Greg

  6. maton F 11
    sharyn

    Hi i have a old Maton F 11 serial 1313 (273)
    It in pretty good condition, with only a couple of very minor dents on it, any idea what it might be worth.
    ANy information appreciated.
    thanks

  7. F10 MATON 1969
    Dave

    Hi there,

    I have a 1969 Maton nylon string guitar. Is is in really good condition and sounds great. I am wondering how much it would be worth. Can someone please give me an idea. Thanks

    1. F10 MATON 1969
      Anonymous

      In regard’s to F10 MATON 1969
      A nylon string guitar is not a great seller,id have to say i play Guitar and am a Collector of Maton Guitar’s,and that would be one model would not look
      at buying,Now when you say really good condition what do you really mean by that ? Why i am asking is i see time and time again people selling Old style Maton’s on-line with photo’s and they will say its in same condition as what you have just said and the have put quite a big price on it and looking at photo’s they will have dings in guitar marked all over and quite used..Now if your Guitar is in prestige mint condition rarely used your going to make a big packet of money,people seem to think because a guitar is old im going to make money on it…wrong dead wrong unless your guitar is in great condtion overall and the finish is in mint condition in other words like new to look at…your not going to make the high end money…but after all that is said and done, i would have to look at the guitar or you should have photo’s up mate to consider a value to your guitar not knowing the condition can’t value.hope that helps a little

      1. Hello there!
        I am a musician of piano, keyboard and wind instrument ilk, but know NOWT about String Instruments. I have a 1969 Maton F10, and wish to sell it to collectors/muso’s, as I cannot play it, and would rather an instrument live (toucha my flute and I breaka your hands!) than lie idle with me. Its a maton. Owned by my ex wifes father, who was a guitar teacher. Its in good nick, tonality is great, but have not done anything to clean it up/bring it up to date. Bar minor scratches, would like to sell, at a fair price. What should I do? Many thanks in advance,
        Adam

    1. 1971 Maton Classical acoustic
      Paul Janssen

      Hi Rachael,

      Can you please provide a few more details about your guitar. Specifically which classical guitar is it (e.g. F10, C25, C30, C50) and also what sort of condition is it in. Also where is the guitar located (in Australia or abroad?).

      Thanks,
      Paul

        1. Hi Rachael, Thanks for
          Paul Janssen

          Hi Rachael,

          Thanks for confirming the model number.

          I owned a C25 which I bought new about 20 years ago for $1295. And when I say new, I literally picked it up from the Maton factory (which at the time was in Bayswater). I sold it 5 years later for $900 as I desperately needed money. It was (and still is) the biggest regret of my life as there was something very special about that C25 guitar. Still can’t look back.

          Mine was in perfect condition (no scratches and no dings) and included the original Maton Hard case. Given that you say yours is scratched, I would think that it would be worth less than what I sold mine for. The other thing is that there are good imports these days (e.g. Katoh and La Patrie) that are excellent guitars and sell new for less than $700. Check out websites like the acoustic centre.

          Perhaps you can try listing in on eBay (or similar) with a buy it now of $900 and a starting bid of $700 to see how you go? If you don’t get any bites you’ll know you’ve started too high. The one thing you have on your side is that Maton Stopped making the C25 a long time ago (can’t remember when but I think it was at least 10 years ago) so yours is very much a collector’s item.

          Good luck.

          Cheers,
          Paul

          1. Thanks so much Paul, I really appreciate your help. I had really under valued it! I just advertised it for $550. I will edit that immediately. Cheers again
            From Rach

            1. c25 1971 Maton Nylon acoustic
              Rachael

              Hi Paul
              I to am desperate for money as I am a struggling student and I need alot of materials for school. If anyone is interested please make me an offer, as all offers will be considered. Photos available on gumtree. My phone number is 0499649988. Cheers Again Paul

            2. c25 1971 Maton Nylon acoustic
              Rachael

              Hi Paul
              I to am desperate for money as I am a struggling student and I need alot of materials for school. If anyone is interested please make me an offer, as all offers will be considered. Photos available on gumtree. My phone number is 0499649988. Cheers Again Paul

  8. Deliberate Undervaluing of Matons
    Ozmusic

    I have read through all the posts here and what is painfully obvious is just how much some serious collectors want to rip off unsuspecting owners of old Matons, BEWARE! these guys know exactly how much these guitars are worth but instead you get the little snide comments of “I’d be interested in buying it” or “How much do you want for it?” which frankly disgusts me. IF you have an old Maton and you seriously want to know it’s value then have it valued by an accredited valuer.Otherwise you are going to fall prey to these rip off artists “posing” as someone willing to “help” you here. and as for the people actually doing this to unsuspecting people looking for some help….You should be ashamed of yourself and to the moderator of this thread…UNLESS the person replying to the thread is actually answering the question posed, then the reply should not be allowed and these people should be protected from these sharks! get your act together!!!

    1. Maton appraisals
      micky

      My thoughts exactly – get your guitar valued by someone who doesn’t collect but actions them to said…. collectors…as they cannot be trusted in this process

      1. Hey mate,

        If you email me serial number and some pics I can give you a valuation on what I would believe the insurance value is…

        There are several variations on the Wedgtail and values vary greatly depending which it is

        my email is [email protected]

        Cheers

        Greg

    2. Values of matons
      Greg

      You are right I am infact one of the honest people… I have given a shit load of info to people by doing research on serial numbers and using my contacts at maton directly to find out manufacture dates and also where things were originally sold too…

      It goes both ways though my friend… sometimes people tell people something is worth a shit load more than it truly is… for example I had a guy believing that a maton f10 classical was a priceless gem worth thousands of dollars when in fact it was worth not much at all… maybe $50 – $100 cause it was seriously stuffed and falling apart…

      unfortunately someone had this person convinced it was a rare and collectible guitar…

      I do ask people if they are selling their guitars and I do ask them what they want.. if they ask me what it is worth i give them an honest answer with an honest value to me as a collector to buy this particular guitar…

      I personally own 37 matons in my collection and I have paid alot for some of them and others I have found as bargains…

      People like yourself have to be careful too that you dont give people a false representation of worth from the other extent ie over valuing guitars…This is what a certain person in sydney who shall remain nameless due to his recent receivership status and all his customers that now have lost $805,000 worth of consignment vintage guitars… I am sure if you are knowledgable you know EXACTLY who I am talking about!

      You seem like a person who sold something and then was told it was worth more or realised it was… and that my friend would be your own fault for not spending the time to research before selling…

      I could be wrong but be warned that you can destroy a guitars value by over stating them just as much as understating their value….

      At the same time I have never seen a post on here actually offering a person a price for something as I think that would go against the forums intentions…

      Greg

  9. Maton eg 240 year?
    Johnny Stewart

    i have recently bought a Maton supreme eg 240 and i am looking to find out what year it is, the serial number is 1263 and i am geussing from other guitars on the internet that it is around 1958-1960. if anyone knows how to determine this it would be great 🙂

    1. Supreme Date
      Greg Tschernez

      I can look into this for you as I have a way of finding out through a contact at maton 🙂

      Shoot me an email at [email protected]

      I will ask the question and get back to you once you send me the email…

      I can possibly find out the store it was sold too as well 🙂

      GReg

  10. Maton C45 serial number 131 - Stolen
    Cathy

    I had my house broken into and my grandfathers Maton C45 guitar stolen. I have the serial number of this guitar – 131. It is in its original case with a purple felt lining.

    I would very much appreciate it if anyone sees this guitar if they could please get in touch with me or the Police at the Palmyra Police Department in Western Australia.

    This is a family heirloom, we desperately want this guitar back. No questions asked on its return.

  11. Looking for Maton Ibis machine head winders
    Marty H

    Hi all I am looking for 6 (need at least 3) head winders (think thats what they are called) for my wifes Maton Ibis, it was passed to her from her now deceased dad and I want to do it up.
    Our research indicates its a 64 model possibly 66 the links below show the guitar as well as the pieces I’m after.

    Any help is much appreciated.

    http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg216/m_arty72/P9110037.jpg

    http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg216/m_arty72/P9110035.jpg

    http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg216/m_arty72/P9110034.jpg

    http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg216/m_arty72/P9110036.jpg

    1. Machine heads
      Stu Rumble

      Hi, how did you go finding machine heads? They look the same as my Capri. I have been looking everywhere for a couple of these (plastic part). I have contacted Maton several times about this and a tone pot for an old wildcat, but they have never answered any of my inquiries.

      1. I am pretty sure this has
        Marty H

        I am pretty sure this has now become a family heirloom and the wife wouldn’t let me sell it if I wanted to, nice to know its wanted though.

        Its hard to make our the serial number but I believe its 287

  12. Maton C45 classiacl guitar
    dave

    I have a 1971 Maton C45 and was wondering how much it is worth, could anyone give me an idea on value. It is in good condition.

    1. maton c45 1972
      murray bickley

      hi, i bought my maton from someone on this site, its in mint condition, and i paid 1000 for it, and i think the owner wanted more, but we were able to compromise, they are rare and very collectable if in good nick and also fantastic to play, all the best murray

      1. Maton Guitar
        Robert

        Hi Poddyodd

        I am considering selling the guitar. I don’t have a price yet. I live in NZ and am away from my residence for about 2 weeks. If you are interested I can send some photos when I am back home.

        Regards

        Robert

    1. Maton Mayfair Grande
      Stu

      Hi,

      I too have one of these. Mine is A273, and it is from around 1950. As for value, no idea, but I these are currently very rare. I won’t sell mine (I’ve had it for 40 years, and it is still a wonderful player, so I’ve never really tried to research the value). I did write to Maton about it a while back, and they informed me that it is a solid wood, hand-carved, tap tuned top, which places it in the top end of archtop guitars. If yours has a De-Armond “Big chief” pickup with it, I know a guy in England who recently paid £500 (GBP) for the pickup alone!

  13. I have a very old maton acoustic guitar i dont know what model but it is a small guitar dark brown in color
    It needs restoration, any ideas of value?

  14. Looking for a Maton Starline
    Jules

    Been playing Gretsch for years and want to get a Maton Starline for some Rockabilly stuff.

    Please email me at jules (at) intoma.com.au

    CHEERS

    Jules

  15. Maton Supreme for sale
    zday

    I am keen to sell my Maton Supreme EG240. Not sure what it is worth as I can’t find any others like it for sale. I swapped it for an American Standard Telecaster about 11 years ago. White with gold hardware and trim. In playing condition and refretted 7 years ago. Serial No. 1545. The Maton archive says these were made early 60’s.

    1. Maton Supreme
      Russell

      Hi zday. I’m keen to find out what you’d sell it for. I’m looking at one (1960 roughly), which it needs some repairs. I could put it together into good shape for less than a $1000. It has no body damage, i.e. dents or scratches. I’d prefer one without repairs necessary though. I would consider a supreme under the above costing?
      Which would be of course less than a $1000.

    2. I too have an EG240 serial no. 1274 and am also interested in selling as it doesn’t get played much anymore. Its a blondie with a single cutaway and twin pickups. Everything seems original except the machine heads which are Gibson ones. I also have no idea what they’re worth. Good luck

    3. Matom Supreme
      Anonymous

      Hello

      I have a Maton Supreme EG240 in excellent condition and do not wish to sell it . I am curious as to why you wish to sell yours and in fact whether you already have. One of these went some months ago on ebay for around $2000. Mine is blonde, I believe most were sunburst. Yours you say is white (blonde ?) with gold hardware. Mine has chrome hardware and an earlier serial no. than yours. I am very interested in these Guitars and would appreciate a reply.

      Regards ,

      Wayne

      1. I want to buy a newer guitar that is more versatile. I have used this guitar for playing blues in a duo with a harmonica player and it was great for that esp on John Lee Hooker style blues. I’m not doing this so much now and need the money to buy another guitar. Here’s links to some pics. I’m interested in your opinion.
        http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb69/zdayskates/DSC00075.jpg
        http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb69/zdayskates/DSC00074.jpg
        http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb69/zdayskates/DSC00076.jpg

        1. Many thanks for the pics. Incredible looking guitar, I didn’t know they made a white one. Matons of this style and vintage are being snapped up on ebay usually fetching between $1500 to $2000.
          My comments on yours: Machine heads are non original but that is to be expected as the ones fitted to these old Matons were rubbish, mine siezed up.
          I’m pretty sure the bridge is not original, they didn’t come with adjustable type.
          Looks like it has had a stop tailpiece fitted at some time.
          Not sure about the trapeze tailpiece that is on it now but suspect it is no original.
          Never the less it is a fine old collectible instrument. hope you find a good home for it and thank you again.

          Wayne

      1. Yeah it’s still available. I don’t really know what it’s worth because you don’t see them for sale very often. Make an offer. Give me your email and I’ll send you pics.

    1. Maton c25
      Anonymous

      Hi all great site, I have recently come across
      A maton c25, very interested to sell it to someone
      Who will appreciate it more than me, not sure on value
      Can anyone interested call 0430 134 663 anytime posted 2:34 am

  16. Maton flamingo parts WANTED!
    Joe stuart

    I’m currently restoring a maton flamingo and don’t have many parts to work with. Does anyone out there by any chance have some flamingo parts sitting around collecting dust? Let me know! My email addy is [email protected]
    Cheers
    Joe

  17. Maton fyrbyrd 12/20 (12 string)
    Joe stuart

    Hello all
    I’m looking for anyone who has a maton fyrbyrd 12 string that they are willing to sell. I have been looking for one for ages! Let me know! My email address is [email protected]
    Cheers
    Joe

  18. Re: Maton Firebirds
    Joe Stuart

    hi mate
    i know you poted your add about your Maton Firebird 12 string many years ago now but I was wandering if you still had it with you? Do you plan on selling it?
    cheers
    joe

  19. Maton Starline for sale
    Paul Emery

    I have a blondewood Maton Starline SG.90. Circa around 1958.
    I would be willing to sell for the right price.
    I’ve been playing this guitar professionally since new but my fingers are getting too arthritic to continue. I stick to bass now.

  20. Maton Fyrbyrd or Supreme WANTED
    martin

    Hi there –
    I’m looking for a MATON FYRBYRD or MATON SUPREME – will you let
    me know if you have either. Many thanks. Call Martin 0419 466 085.

    1. Re: maton c30 spruce top
      murray bickley

      : hello, is there anyone out there with c30 they,d like to sell or a c25 or a c45 all classical all maton cheers murray

        1. Maton C25 Vintage Guitar
          Jansy pansy

          Hi, I would love to purchase a guitar similar to the one my Dad had. I remember it had a number on it I think in the 400’s. As a kid I always wanted to play it. I moved away from home and he gave it away to a work friend that moved to Rockhampton. My sister and I were devastated and pleaded with him to try to ask for it back but of course it was too late. He does not have his details so it is lost. It was a gorgeous deep amber and reddish in colour and had the fancy sound hole. If you or anyone can help me my email is [email protected]. Thanks Jan

        2. Maton C25 Vintage 1970 Guitar
          Anonymous

          I have one of these guitars and was wondering what the going price of these are, mine is in very good condition
          I would appreciate if you could give me an idea. Thanks

    2. Re: maton c30 spruce top
      Chris

      A mate just gave me his old c30. I had it restored – back glued up and bridge put back on. it sounds great and I love it nearly as much as my old ss. I just wonder roughly what it would be worth? It looks like its had an easy life as it is in excellent condition.
      ie. should I spend a couple of hundred $ on a solid case?
      ps. no its not hot or for sale.

      1. Re: maton c30 spruce top
        murray bickley

        : A mate just gave me his old c30. I had it restored – back glued up and bridge put back on. it sounds great and I love it nearly as much as my old ss. I just wonder roughly what it would be worth? It looks like its had an easy life as it is in excellent condition.
        : ie. should I spend a couple of hundred $ on a solid case?
        : ps. no its not hot or for sale.

        1. Re: maton c30 spruce top
          murray bickley

          : : A mate just gave me his old c30. I had it restored – back glued up and bridge put back on. it sounds great and I love it nearly as much as my old ss. I just wonder roughly what it would be worth? It looks like its had an easy life as it is in excellent condition.
          : : ie. should I spend a couple of hundred $ on a solid case?
          : : ps. no its not hot or for sale.

  21. maton acoustic guitar em400
    richard newey

    i have a maton acoustic guitar em400, it was made in 1994, and there were less then 300 made
    it is in good condition, without any marks, and it comes with a case, that looks like new,
    the guitar has had very little use, it is righthanded, and i’am a lefthander,who tried to play it upside down,but later, put it away,and bought a lefthanded guitar

  22. maton acoustic guitar em400
    riccardo

    how much is my maton acoustic guitar em4oo, it was made in 1994, and there were under 300 made, the guitar ,is in very good condition,with
    out any markes,and it has a case. with it unmarked,

    1. Re: MATON ALVER ACOUSTIC
      DAVE COOPER

      : I HAVE HAD THIS GUITAR SINCE I WAS 16 NOW 58 STILL PLAY HER ALONG WITH OTHERS NICE TO READ THE COMMENTS. MY KIDS ARE PLANING TO BUY ME A NEW
      MATON & CASE IN WICTCH I,VE NEVER HAD A CASE THAT IS, FOR MY 60TH BIRTHDAY LOOK FORWOOD TO THAT DAY BIG JAM.SON IS A PLAYIN STILL & GOT HIS 1956
      MATON ELECT.

    1. Re: Maton Ibis form sale
      Ken

      : I have a well used Maton Ibis for sale will consider any reasonable offer

      Hi, I am interested in the Ibis. I would like some pic,s if possible.
      Regards
      Ken

  23. found a framus
    lance mikles

    can you tell me about this. I think the model number is 7-297. serial number is 24670. 70-e do not know what this number means please let me know belonged to a world war 2 vet would like to know

  24. Maton CW80 2257 1176 Stolen
    Chris S-Cook

    My Maton CW80/6 Serial No 2257 1176 was stolen from my home in Marsden, Brisbane Qld between 4-11 June 2008. My attempts to locate it so far have been fruitless.
    I’m offering a reward of $500 for the return of the instrument or information leading to the apprehension of the thief. I have had this guitar for more than 30 years – huge sentimental value. Pics on my web site http://www.anchoraus.com/stolenmaton.htm
    Keep healthy, safe and happy. Chris
    ps Thanks guitarsite

  25. pair flamingo's
    peter

    Hi
    have 2 flamingo’s differant models both red,cutaway differant and the origanai cases[still in use but very ratty]fit appropriatly so they haven’t been hacked. one in fantastic condition the other looks it age but is my favourite to play , both original in original cases anyone interested? cheers peter

    1. Re: pair flamingo's
      Ken

      Hi Peter I am interested
      regards
      Ken
      : Hi
      : have 2 flamingo’s differant models both red,cutaway differant and the origanai cases[still in use but very ratty]fit appropriatly so they haven’t been hacked. one in fantastic condition the other looks it age but is my favourite to play , both original in original cases anyone interested? cheers peter

  26. The good old alver
    jstruttle

    I have an alver archtop. serial number b127(hand written). I looked on the maton history page but they all have a different head stock to mine. They all seem to have a head stock with a high point in the middle. Mine has a low left hand side sweeping (in a wave ) to a high point on the right.Any one know the difference? I love playing it but would like to know a bit of its background.

    1. Re: Maton Wildcat Electric
      Lewis

      hi there,
      http://www.maton.com.au/pdf/Wildcats.pdf
      we recently had a wildcat in the music swop shop which was missing it’s original scratchplate! Would love to get it to the guy who bought it if you are interested in selling it!
      Contact the swop shop at http://www.musicswopshop.com.au
      cheers,
      Lewis

      : 20 years ago I bought an electric Wildcat maple leaf scratch plate the meanest of guitar shapes. Does any one know the history of the electrics.

    2. Re: Maton Wildcat Electric
      Bill

      Hey Darren,

      I have one of those, too. Like all early maton electrics it’s quite primitive and in my opinion a pretty average guitar to play. Red Symonds used to play one in Skyhooks in the mid seventies

      : 20 years ago I bought an electric Wildcat maple leaf scratch plate the meanest of guitar shapes. Does any one know the history of the electrics.

      1. Maton Wildcat
        Rockdiva

        I’m pretty sure mine has Dimarzio pickups. That’s what made it unique at the time. Mine is no 193 and has the fancy leaf scratch plate in it’s original case. Maton told me 199 or 200 (can’t remember which) were made and as far as they knew, back in 1997, all had been destroyed but mine which is in mint condition apart from a small cigarette burn up in the headstock. Nice to see there are still some around. The case is signed by Tommy Emmanuel who was ambassador for Maton at the time. I’ve always wondered who owned it before me? Any clues? ANd no, I don’t want to sell it. It’s my pride and joy and would never part with it. Overall, a brilliant guitar.

        1. Wildcat #208 the last one built
          Jeff A.

          Mine also has a metal scratchplate with some fancy engraving.I was told it was the last one built #208 would luv to hear from any one else who has the same?
          This one also has a crazy cut out on the back where the neck joins?
          Cheers Jeff

          1. Maton Wildcat
            Terry

            Jeff , I have a Wildcat bought in 1975 – used only socially do still in good condition Cherry body with gold leaf no.197 Best fretboard to play- regards Terry

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Darren Wright
      Darren Wright

      20 years ago I bought an electric Wildcat maple leaf scratch plate the meanest of guitar shapes. Does any one know the history of the electrics.

      1. There's also a MATON WILDCAT ACOUSTIC/ELECTRIC! RARE...
        WILDCAT INFO

        http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g373/WinyardProductions/Maton%20Guitar/MatonWildcat004.jpg
        http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g373/WinyardProductions/Maton%20Guitar/MatonWildcat008.jpg
        http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g373/WinyardProductions/Maton%20Guitar/MatonWildcat002.jpg
        http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g373/WinyardProductions/Maton%20Guitar/MatonWildcat007.jpg
        http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g373/WinyardProductions/Maton%20Guitar/MatonWildcat005.jpg
        http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g373/WinyardProductions/Maton%20Guitar/MatonWildcat003.jpg

            1. Wildcat
              Anonymous

              Hi Greg,

              I’m actually trying to find a second one of these myself, so selling mine is very unlikely.

              There’s only a few other people I know of who have owned one of these, one of them being Nick Cave’s + Bad Seeds guitarist… Unfortunately he had his stolen in Italy.

              Although @ 78 in the entire world I guess I’m pushing up hill.

              Paul.

              1. Wildcat
                Anonymous

                Oh, and although there’s 78 total I understand that a large number of these were proto-types and never made it into the public eye. I believe the black emulsion on the back was developed at NASA, or similar techniques were used to the NASA processes. I should have bought two at the time… 🙁

    1. Re: Maton Fyrbyrd
      Pat H

      : Martin, My white fyrbyrd is on ebay.com.au (Aussie site) at the moment.

      Pat

      Hi there –

      : I’m looking for a Maton Fyrbyrd – preferably
      : in good condition. Will pay top dollars for top guitar.

      : Martin.

  27. Maton Sapphire Deluxe bass 1968
    Jamie

    I am selling this semi acoustic bass. Owned and played by my dad the label reads – Model: Sapphire Deluxe 402/4 Bass Serial: 317 (1168).
    It is missing the bridge cover plate and one tuning peg. Original pick-ups work perfectly and although the neck shows signs of having been played, it is perfectly straight.
    Anyone out there interested?

    1. Re: Maton Sapphire Deluxe bass 1968
      G

      : I am selling this semi acoustic bass. Owned and played by my dad the label reads – Model: Sapphire Deluxe 402/4 Bass Serial: 317 (1168).
      : It is missing the bridge cover plate and one tuning peg. Original pick-ups work perfectly and although the neck shows signs of having been played, it is perfectly straight.
      : Anyone out there interested?

      I see you posted a while ago…is it gone?

  28. Maton fyrbyrd for sale
    David Roche

    Im selling a 1963 red maton fybyrd, needs a bit of work with the frets and the bridge. Simply dont have enough time to do it up myself.

    Selling for $600 my number is 0431 972 804

    1. Re: Maton fyrbyrd for sale
      kenny lee

      : Im selling a 1963 red maton fybyrd, needs a bit of work with the frets and the bridge. Simply dont have enough time to do it up myself.

      : Selling for $600 my number is 0431 972 804

      hi,did you sell it??if no my number is 0404208514 cheers k

    2. Re: Maton fyrbyrd for sale
      Martin Wood

      : Im selling a 1963 red maton fybyrd, needs a bit of work with the frets and the bridge. Simply dont have enough time to do it up myself.

      : Selling for $600 my number is 0431 972 804

      I there, do you still have the fyrbyrd?

    1. maton tasman c40
      jmac

      I have owned a tasman for years (at least 30) the sticker inside tells me it is number 427 and I think production date 10/82 I thought it was older than that.
      Can anyone tell me if that date sounds right or does it mean something else.great guitar , could never part with it, as good as any aussie guitar.
      when I contacted maton they tried to tell me that there were no jap. matons, we know better now, I think they were trying to give an all australian image.

    2. Re: Maton Tasman CW-40
      JG Bonhomme

      : I have a maton Tasman CW-40. It is the 201st of it’s kind. There were only 550 made of them i think and i was wondering what the price on it would be. It is in great condition.

      Hello, I am the proud owner of a Tasman CW 40 as well.. If you are wondering about the type of timber used, I have it on very good authority from a guitar luthier here in Western Australia that the body, sides and neck of my instrument are Nyatoh (Indonesian Rainforest timber)and the soundboard is Spruce.. The Maton website left me very wanting in the information department! There were 3 runs of production of the Tasman covering a 2-3 year period, 500 guitars built on each occasion ( that’s 1500 in total).. Mine is numbered 216.. Not sure of the value, why not post it on ebay and see what response you get? I couldn’t sell mine, the tone is just too mellow and smooth, it has a couple of scratches and a small split on the soundboard, but I would prefer this guitar anyday to th a brand new mass-produced Maton! Cheers, JGB.

      1. Re: Maton Tasman CW-40
        Dougall

        Hi there. I used to own one of these until it was smashed by a psycho ex-wife 🙁 I had mine valued around 14 years ago at $1500 so God only knows what it would be worth now! If either of you guys want to sell please let me know as I miss mine soooo much!

        Cheers Dougz

        1. Re: Maton Tasman CW-40
          Barry Garner

          Hi, I have a CW-40 in excellent condition that I am looking to sell,due to illness I am not able to do it justice,I am based in North Lincolnshire in England,anyone interested please email me.Barry

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Michell Posterfuld
      Michell Posterfuld

      I have a maton Tasman CW-40. It is the 201st of it’s kind. There were only 550 made of them i think and i was wondering what the price on it would be. It is in great condition.

      1. Maton CW 40
        John Kell

        I bought the Maton CW40 #388 dated 5/82 new from a guitar shop in Kent St Sydney in early 1983. I was 21 at the time.
        I think at that time I paid Aussie dollar $360. About 3 weeks pay.
        The bloke told me it was a very expensive first guitar at the time.
        Too busy with life to learn to play but have treasured it.
        My mates that can play love the sound.
        I also still have my first surfboard too. A 1963 Bill Wallace 5′ 10 single fin. One of the first fibreglass short boards.
        Both are the treasures of life.
        I have just had the Maton restrung after 10 years and are determined to have another crack at playing.
        cheers all.

      2. Maton tasman
        Jimbo

        I have a Maton Tasman acoustic (i think) and trying to figure out if it is a real maton.
        Mine has the word ‘Tasman’ in gold on the head of the guitar and a small paper Maton sticker
        inside the sound hole but it has no make number. I’ve seen on this website people talking about theirs with
        make numbers. Does anyone own one and could let me know if there’s has the same features as I just described?

          1. Tasman cw-40
            Anonymous

            Yes, date on small square label, I.e 597 would be may 1997, serial number on cross brace oposite neck join inside
            sound hole eg. 229…229th out 500 made

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