Oldschool electric guitar 42-16 „Ozzy”
Description
Important, notes about the price and delivery options are located at the end of the description.
Oldschool electric guitar 42-16 „Ozzy”
6-string electric guitar, serial number 42-16, nicknamed „Ozzy”, handmade in Poland by Tomasz Wojtowicz. One of the 25 guitars in the collection „25 guitars collection – handmade by Tomasz Wojtowicz”. The guitar was completed in January 2024, the guitar was creating over 13 years. The question arises once again: “Why so long time?”. The answer is always the same, as yet unchanged: “Because each guitar in the Collection is created in special moments without rush”. Ozzy is a classic heavy metal machine, created for hard rock and heavy metal, but this is not for speedy music in my opinion. A typical tools were used to make the guitar, no CNC, no robo-multitools. Ozzy is an oldschool guitar crafted to play, not to watch, only when playing it does show all its advantages. Classical/typical wood species were used, seasoned long time in different climate conditions, selected to harmonize together. This is an unique instrument, with own raw character… this is Ozzy. The sound is powerful and positively aggressive, but warm, fat, mahogany type, very rich in harmonic components, long sustaining. This is another live guitar in the Collection, waiting for experienced guitarist. The design of the instrument, wood and parts suggest the use in music genres such as heavy metal, trash metal, hard rock, punk rock and related genres. Of course, there are those who will play blues or jazz on it, but it will be rather heavy blues or heavy jazz or rock-ballad :) Humbuckers… there are strong humbuckers in the body. Ozzy is a guitar with a standard size neck, not too thin, not too thick (it definitely takes some getting used to), which is equipped with only branded and high-quality parts. Ozzy is the sixth guitar launched in the "25 guitars collection" family, the following have already been born: Bernard, Winston, Theodore, Leonard and Eddie. The first connection to the amplifier and everything was clear… Yes, it must be Ozzy.
Please, find below some general details and specification:
Body
1 – piece African mahogany Khaya ivorensis, medium density, thickness 45 mm, length 452 mm, width 333 mm. The top of body is flat, partial profiled. The back of body is flat, partial profiled. There is no additional top, facing, nor binding. The body model is SCM Spider, it is my own original design, which was created by extending the upper half of the Lizard body (also my own design) by approximately 17 mm and adding a few modifications, enabling use with a 24-fret neck.
Note, Khaya ivorensis is listed on the CITES list. If the wood is used in an instrument, the export permit is required when leaving the European Union. This can also make it more difficult to move quickly with the instrument in the future when traveling between different countries of the world.
Neck
Neck is made of 5 pieces of wood: outer slieces – sycamore maple Acer pseudoplatanus, central slice - Honduras mahogany Swietenia macrophylla, , and there are 2 pieces of padauk Pterocarpus soyauxii between mahogany and maples. Neck is glued-in (joint angle 1 deg., the neck is high-setted, strings are rised about 3 mm more over the guitar body than typically), thickness at I fret 20,8 mm, thickness at XII fret 22,8 mm, width at nut 42,6 mm, width at XXIV fret 56,8 mm, rounded C profile. The headstock is angled 14 deg., facing is made of bare black African ebony, just sanded and impregnated with light oil. The top surface of the headstock should be impregnated every few months with a lemon oil, the same oil which is used for cleaning and impregnating fingerboards. The shape of headstock is my own project and is used in every guitar in the „25 guitars collection”. The neck construction is not reinforced with 2 carbon rods (cross section 4mm x 4mm), 5 pieces of wood makes the neck strong and stable enough.
Handmade truss rod is based on Martin type construction – one action, steel rod in U-shape aluminium profile. Additional vibration damping material was used. Note, do not use too much force when adjusting the neck relief. Adjustment should be done in very small steps, with sensitivity and caution, the neck reacts with some delay to screwing and unscrewing the truss rod nut. Both the rod and the adjusting nut are made of high strength stainless steel.
The neck doesn’t belong to so-call “thin and speedy”, it is rather typical profiled… but how to describe a typical? :) Let’s say it is rounded C.
As with any guitar in which the neck is angled- headstock construction, keep in mind that the neck/headstock point is the least mechanically resistant place in the instrument. There is a thick ebony layer at this location to make the point stronger, there is additional strenght of 5 pieces of laminated wood, but when the guitar fall on the floor, the probability of breaking the headstock is quite high. Always set the guitar (every guitar!) in a guitar stand or place it securely in the case, even if it's just for a while. Wrong decision can damage Ozzy, he doesn’t want it, you don’t want it.
Note, Swietenia macrophylla is listed on the CITES list. If the wood is used in an instrument, the export permit is required when leaving the European Union. This can also make it more difficult to move quickly with the instrument in the future when traveling between different countries of the world.
Fingerboard
1 – piece flamed rock maple Acer saccharum, with thick ebony binding along, scale 25” (635 mm), radius 12” (305mm). The top surface of fingerboard is protected with thin matt lacquer. Attention!!! – in this case you can’t use lemon oil for cleaning and impregnating the fingerboard!
The following components are mounted in the fingerboard:
- 24 frets hard nickel-silver Wagner, crown high 1,1 mm, crown width 2,6 mm
- front markers – gold MOP 3mm dots
- side markers – gold MOP 1,5mm dots
- nut made of Black Tusq XL Graph Tech
Notes:
Any slight deepening of string slots in the nut should be performed no sooner than after approximately 200 hours of playing the instrument.
The nut was inserted into the fingerboard before the lacquering process of the instrument. When replacing worn frets in the future, frets with a crown height of no more than 1,1 mm should be used. This way, you will avoid the complicated and expensive replacement of the nut with the refilling of the lacquer coating.
Pickups
- neck pickup – passive Seymour Duncan Duncan Distortion (Mayhem set) SH 6N black, 13,0 kOhm, 4-conductor lead wire, ceramic magnes, modified PAF, designed for heavy metal and hard rock, agressive, full of charmonics, high output signal.
- bridge pickup – passive Seymour Duncan Duncan Distortion (Mayhem set) SH 6B black, 16,6 kOhm, 4-conductor lead wire, ceramic magnes, modified PAF, designed for heavy metal and hard rock, agressive, full of charmonics, high output signal.
The pickups are fixed in low gold plated metal frames. Both humbuckers have high output signal that may seem to be too powerful for some guitarists who are accustomed to lower outputs. However, the quality of the electronics allows you to freely adjust the volume and tone. Thanks to this, the guitar is more universal, and will work well in sharp and aggressive music, as well as in a little bit less sharp and aggressive, … a little :). There is no treble-bleed filter in the volume pot, turning it down reduces the aggression in the high tones. Additionally, turning the tone knob slightly from the fully open position, from 10 to approximately 9-8, will remove the treble a little from the sound if such a raw sound seems to be too aggressive/sharp for some people.
Like any character of the sound and applied parts, the pickups are subject to the player's assessment and are associated with his or her habits and preferences. In the case of incompatibility of the sound character of the fixed pickups, please do not decide whether to replace the pickups too fast. 200 hours of play is a necessary minimum time to learn the capabilities of the instrument, get used to its character, find the right settings in amplifier and effects. Beyond that, please always keep in mind that, as every guitar in the “25 guitars collection”, as Ozzy does not like changes. it's best to like Ozzy as he is. About the Duncan Distortion pickup set… you either love them or hate them. There is a higher probability that you will love them..
Electronics
- 1 x volume potentiometer Bourns Low Friction, a Seymour Duncan YJM High Speed 500k Audio version, no treble-bleed filter
- 1 x tone potentiometer Bourns No-Load GTN 500k Linear + polypropylene capacitor 0,022 uF/600V 715P Orange drop Sprague
- 3-position gold coated toggle switch MEC model 80040
- gold plated cylindrical MEC output jack, model 50113 fixed in hand made b/c/b jack plate
The control pocket cover is handmade of b/w/b/w plastic.
Bridge
Fixed, base made of steel, 41065 Hipshot, gold/black hybrid. 4,5 mm steel base is setted on 2mm thick ebony, which ensures a significantly greater elevation of the strings above the body than, for example, in Strat-style guitars.
Tuning keys
Locked Hipshot 6GLO-23 mm Open tuners, 1:18 ratio, gold/black hybrid, tulip metal grips
Other hardware
- strap buttons – Schaller S-lock, gold plated (be sure and periodically check if the nuts fastening the mounting on the strap are firmly tightened and the locking screws are screwed in!)
- knobs – 2 gold plated Gotoh VK18, dome
Strings
D’Addario 009-042 standard set
Finish
Body… stained in black colour, coated with 4 thin layers of 3-c polyester clear lacquer, applied blackburst between lacquer layers. Then multi-stage wet sanding and dry buffing.
After finishing process, a gloss and transparency was achieved. The method used leaves straight and circular micro-scratches visible from a very close distance, it is not a sterile thick paint coating.
The applied lacquers deepen the oldschool character of the instrument, protects the wood from moisture and dirt. It is not resistant to point strokes with hard objects, it is not resistant to scratches caused by sharp objects. As a result of the specific surface finishing method, the lacquer coating of the instrument has minor irregularities, indentations, collapses, abrasions, mottling, straight and circular scratches and micro scratches that are visible from a close distance at certain angles to the illumination.
Neck… impregnated with thin coat of satin lacquer, this is „open pores” finish. The neck finish is not sanded, not buffed, any roughness will smooth out after some hours of playing.
Weight
Bare guitar weight is 3,05 kg. Total weight of the guitar with all fixed hardware is 3,99 kg.
Accesories
- hex wrench 5mm for truss rod adjusting
- hex wrench for adjusting the height of saddles in the bridge
- soft microfibre cloth
- hard shell case dedicated for Ibanez RG / S / RGA / RGD / SA / RC / TM guitars, padded with gray soft plush, equipped in TSA locks
Adjusments
The guitar is initially adjusted and ready to play. Any additional adjustments, according to your preferences, are to be made by you or by person servicing your instruments. To achieve extremely low string action, any micro leveling of the frets should be performed no sooner than after approximately 200 hours of playing the instrument. After a long term of time (a year, or two, three after the first stringing) probably the last 2, 3, maybe 4 frets (at the body side) will need to be very slightly sanded, which is result of the self-arrangement of the neck. This is a typical symptom related to the construction of the guitar/neck, it is not a defect of the instrument, nothing to be afraid of. These types of adjustments and corrections are a normal process for many guitars and basses, regardless of price or class.
A few more words about Ozzy
The instrument was performing for a very long time. After each cutting, routing or profiling any wooden element, it was set aside for several months to stabilize and any occurred deformation was corrected. This procedure has provided the natural, very high structural stability of all components of the ready instrument and any future deformation, in normal use and in typical housing, studio or stage conditions is unlikely.
The sound of the guitar is typical for mahogany bodies with a set-in/glued-in mahogany neck. It is fat, massive, warm but selective and rich in harmonics. The combination of African and Hondurian mahogany works very well here, as well as a rounded C-profile neck. The volume of the wood matters. The hard maple fingerboard adds expected contour to the sound and requires precision in playing. Ozzy does not cheat, he will show all imperfections in playing, there are no shortcuts. It will probably take some time for people who have never played such a lively and harmonically rich instrument to control all the additional sounds and “sound - dirts”.
As with the rest of the guitars in the Collection, Ozzy’s creation was a long process. Over the years, all the accompanying emotions have penetrated the molecular structure of the wood. This is how the soul was born in this instrument. Another soul-equipped instrument and own character… Attention, Ozzy is really crazy!
For whom is this instrument
For a person who does not need great logo on the headstock, and more importantly is the sound and the uniqueness of the hand-made instrument. For a person who does not put a guitar in a glass-case to look at a glass-mirror thick colourful finish. For a person who plays the instrument a few hours a day, likes oldschool instruments, mahogany, maple, a set-in constructions and custom solutions. For a person who does not mind the fact that the guitar wears out of use, loses some of the glow and flash of the gilt parts. For the person who cares for the instrument, periodically impregnates exposed wooden components, puts the guitar on a guitar stand so it does not fall down. For a person with an open mind, for a real good human.
What people say …
“The best sound I've ever heard, and I've played quite a few guitars in my life”…
“Ozzy is sharp as a razor, the sounds are very selective, great”…
“I really like the pickups. Also the guitar”…
“As usual with your guitars. Something about it doesn't quite suit me manually and I have to get used to it. But the sound is magic”…
“Wooow, how to master all this. There are too many sounds”…
“Can I become your endorser?”…
“I don't like that it's black, but it's nice that you can see the wood through the lacquer”…
“I have always played on thick strings, but thin strings here can also sound thick”…
“What if I bought it and didn't tell my wife anything?”…
“Yes, maple fingerboard adds brightness to the sound”…
“I’d prefer even higher frets”…
“If you set down volume a bit, you can calm the aggression”…
“Ozzy is supposed to be created for rhythm playing, but look how nice the solo sounds”…
“Well, cool, cool, I don't really know what to say. I don't really like this guitar, but there's something addictive about it”…
“Are there discounts for students?”…
“Ozzy is such a classic version of modern heavy metal guitar”…
“And why are there no coil splits? ... and I already know”...
“In fact, this guitar is crazy, you have to be careful”…
“Oh, this one also sounds good in low-tuning, like Eddie. Personally, I would use thicker strings”…
“It's either black or brown, depending on what angle you look at it from. Oh, and the wood can be seen through the varnish”…
Heavy metal 42-16 Ozzy was priced at 3450 EUR – the price is valid until 31 December 2024r.
If Ozzy does not find a happy buyer in a given year, in each subsequent year its price will increase by 9,99 %.
Price for year 2025 is frozen at level 3450 EUR, price is valid until 31 December 2025 (price update done 01.01.2025).
Price of 42-16 Ozzy for all year 2026 is set at level 3794 EUR, price is valid until 31 December 2026 (price update done 01.01.2026).
This instrument is subject to a 24-month limited guarantee. The guarantee does not cover the wear and tear during typical use of components such as strings, frets, nut, lacquer surfaces. The guarantee does not cover mechanical damage resulting from misuse.
Shipping to a country belonging to the European Union
The price is valid if sales and shipping goes to a country in the EU. Shipping cost is 98 EUR maximum and It depends on the country where the shipment takes place. Shipping takes place within 14 working days of receipt of payment, it is necessary time to exchange strings, pre-adjustment and settings.
Shipping to a country not belonging to the European Union
The guitar can by sold and shipped only to the European Union countries.
Please, contact me for more information,
Tomasz Wojtowicz
Tel. +48/ 602671930
e-mail: woodforguitar@gmail.com
Ostrzeżenia i bezpieczeństwo związane z produktem
Product warnings and safety
Oferowany produkt jest instrumentem muzycznym przeznaczonym do długotrwałego użytkowania. Nazwa sugeruje, że jest to instrument elektryczny, jednak sam w sobie nie stanowi zagrożenia porażenia prądem, można przyjąć, że przetworniki zamieniające drgania strun na sygnał elektryczny nie generują większego napięcia, niż 10 mV. Uwaga, gitarę należy podłączać tylko i wyłącznie do atestowanych dedykowanych urządzeń wzmacniających i przetwarzających wysyłany z instrumentu sygnał.
Reakcje alergiczne – mogą wystąpić różne reakcje alergiczne, w przypadkach szczególnych należy zgłosić się po poradę medyczną.
Ryzyko zranienia – zachować szczególną ostrożność, obcięte końcówki strun przy stroikach są ostre i mogą zranić. Instrument waży ponad 3 kg, przy upadku np. na nieosłoniętą stopę może zranić. Wystające elementy instrumentu mogą zranić przy nagłym kontakcie.
Dzieci – przedmiot nie jest przeznaczony do zabawy, użytkowanie przez dzieci jest dozwolone tylko pod nadzorem osoby dorosłej.
Uzależnienie i wpływ na stan psychiczny/fizyczny człowieka – charakter produktu może uzależniać, czego efektem jest np. poświęcanie zbyt dużej ilości czasu na użytkowanie produktu. Wielogodzinna gra na instrumencie może powodować m.in. nadmierne napięcie poszczególnych mięśni, należy regularnie przeprowadzać przerwy w grze oraz wykonywać ćwiczenia gimnastyczne ukierunkowane na poprawę funkcjonowania obciążonych partii ciała.
Przechowywanie – przechowywać w suchym miejscu w warunkach domowych-pokojowych, w dedykowanym stojaku lub futerale w pozycji stojącej, z dala od bezpośrednich źródeł ciepła.
The product is a musical instrument intended for long-term use. The name suggests that it is an electric instrument, but it does not pose a risk of electric shock; it can be assumed that the pickups that convert string vibrations into an electrical signal do not generate a voltage greater than 10 mV. Please note: the guitar should only be connected to certified, dedicated devices that amplify and process the signal sent from the instrument.
Allergic reactions – various allergic reactions may occur; in exceptional cases, seek medical advice.
Injury hazard – exercise extreme caution; the cut ends of the strings near the tuning machines are sharp and may cause injury. The instrument weighs over 3 kg and could cause injury if dropped, for example, on an exposed foot. The instrument's protruding parts may cause injury upon sudden contact.
Children – this item is not intended for play; children should only use it under adult supervision. Addiction and impact on a person's mental/physical state – the nature of the product may be addictive, resulting in, for example, spending too much time using the product. Playing an instrument for many hours can cause, among other things, excessive muscle tension; it is important to take regular breaks from playing and perform exercises aimed at improving the functioning of the affected body parts.
Storage – store in a dry place at home, in a dedicated stand or case, in an upright position, away from direct heat sources.
Producent/odpowiedzialność za produkt
Manufacturer/product liability
Wszystkie produkty dostępne na stronie internetowej „Wood For Guitar”/woodforguitar.com
All items available on the "Wood For Guitar" website/woodforguitar.com
TOMASHEK Tomasz Wojtowicz
Legionów Polskich 137/37
41-310 Dąbrowa Górnicza
Polska
Tomasz Wojtowicz
Tel. +48/ 882803692
woodforguitar@gmail.com
