Randy's Custom Clarke Deluxe

[bassman10096]

Hey Randy:  Do you have a close-up of the fingerboard inlay you'd be willing to post?  I'd love to see it.    
 
Bill
 
(Message edited by bassman10096 on March 26, 2004)

[randy]

Yes, Bill, Mica posted one back on 9-10-03 of the final design, actually on the fretboard.  You can find this in the archive section, at the top of the page.  The frets had not yet been shined up, but it's a good representation of the artwork.  I wanted this to be the only inlay on the instrument, as it means a lot to me.  Let me know if you can't find it, and I'll be glad to take a photo.  Thanks for your interest, Randy

[bassman10096]

Randy:  I forgot all about that picture.  I remembered it as soon as I saw it.  Still curious how the dove looks framed by strings and frets, but I get the idea.  Very pretty and it definitely works to eliminate all other inlays on the cocobolo neck.  I like it a lot.
 
Bill

[randy]

Hey, Bill, I can't resist snapping a photo of the completed neck with dove inlay, strings, frets, and all.  I'll do that this weekend and post it for you.  You'll notice that the Cocobolo fretboard will look deeper in color, after having several applications of lemon oil, and it complements the body much better now.  In Mica's picture of the complete instrument above, it looks almost orange.  Be looking for the photo later, and thanks for your interest, Randy

[randy]

Here you go, Bill.  The materials are mother-of-pearl with a sterling silver accent outline.  I trust this gives you a good idea of the two things I wanted to accomplish with the dove inlay.  1. With no other inlay, your eye is drawn to the dove, and it's always a good way to start a conversation about my faith.  When Roger designed and made the knobs, I purposely did not allow him to use mother-of-pearl, so the only use of the material anywhere on the instrument is the dove.  2. And, it enables the natural beauty of the woods to really stand out.  It is definitely an understated inlay.  Those Alembic folks can certainly do anything you want, and they did exactly what I asked for.  Again, let me know if you have any other questions.  
God bless, Randy

 

[randy]

One more photo.

[bassman10096]

Randy:  Thanks.  It's beautiful.  You are right about the cocobolo fretboard toning down from that fresh orange look.  It compliments the body wood perfectly now.  Congratulations!  You've got a real beauty there!
 
Bill