(SOLD) Cole Clark Fat Lady FL1A Natural 2003
Cole Clark FL1A, natural satin, made in Australia 2003-4 approx. Here we have an early example of the iconic Fat Lady series. There's a couple of unusual ideas in the design: a Spanish heel neck joint, a unique pickup/preamp system and Australian tonewoods. The Spanish heel joint means the neck block goes way further into the body, which makes for excellent stability and extended sustain. You trade a bit of attack for a really even, singing tone tone that's well-suited for big rhythm parts. The pickup uses a standard piezo under the bridge, as well as a proprietary 'face brace' pickup, which is almost a foot long and built into the bracing for the top. You can blend the two sensors via a slider on the pre-amp, and the two balance really nicely for a remarkably accurate, natural tone. The combo of a bunya top and QLD maple back and sides is visually appealing and environmentally sustainable, but they're also great sounding tonewoods with heaps of natural low end and a warm, understated midrange. This one has plenty of playtime on the clock already, so it's opened up nicely and has a cool aesthetic to match. Straya AF.
Model: Cole Clark FL1A
Made: Melbourne Australia, 2003-4 approx (serial label missing)
Finish: natural, satin nitro
Body: solid bunya top, solid QLD maple back and sides, rosewood bridge
Neck: Queensland maple, rosewood fingerboard, 25.5" scale, 16" radius, Spanish heel joint, D-shape
Weight: 2.120kg
Mods: none
Pickup: Cole Clark 2-way bridge/face pickup/preamp system
Case: basic non original hard case, few knocks and marks, case is fair condition
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has widespread scuffs, a well worn top edge and a decent ding near the nut on the bass side. The neck is well played and smooth in the hand, there's plenty of dimples, rub wear and scuffs on the back. The back has widespread dimples, scuffs and glossing from play, the most notable marks are on the back edge and bottom horn. The sides have scuffs and dimples around the whole body, plus a decent dent near the jack. The front has some notable marks around the back edge, in the elbow area and near the soundhole, as well as widespread dimples, rub wear and scuffs. Overall: good condition (6/10).
Playing condition notes: action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets have some normal wear but are recently levelled and dressed, 7/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 12/54 Moonshiners strings.