This 1996 Collings SJ comes from the early years of Bill Collings’ small but rapidly growing Austin workshop, a period when the company was already developing a reputation for highly precise acoustic construction and lightly built instruments with strong projection. The slope-shoulder body shape gives the guitar a slightly warmer and rounder character, while the sunburst finish adds a subtle nod to classic American flattops of the mid-20th century. Even at this relatively early stage of production, the fit and detailing show the careful approach that would eventually place Collings among the most respected boutique acoustic builders in the country.
The guitar has had a Fishman Eclipse pickup professionally installed for amplified use, along with a bridge reglue performed by our in-house repair team. These repairs appear to have been handled cleanly, and the instrument remains structurally solid overall. The SJ body size gives the guitar a broad low end without becoming overly compressed, pairing nicely with the quick response and balance often found in Collings acoustics from this era. The finish has aged gracefully over the last three decades, giving the guitar a naturally broken-in appearance with only mild player wear to note.
Includes hard shell case.
