Doc Watson

Gallagher guitars have long been associated with the Watson's.  In 1968 Doc and Merle Watson started playing guitars made by J.W. and Don Gallagher, a G-50 and a G-40 respectively. This orginal G-50 which Doc called "Ol Hoss" is on display at he Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, TN.  In 1974 a guitar was made for Doc by J.W. Gallagher which incorporated some particular features Doc wanted. This guitar became the Doc Watson Model. 

     In 1975, the first cut-a-way version of this model was made for Merle. In 1991 Don made a cut-a-way for Doc which Doc refers to as "Donald".  Over the years a number of guitars have been made for the Watson's -- not only for Doc and Merle, but also for Merle's son Richard. We are very pleased, to donate a Doc Watson Model guitar each year for the winner of the Guitar Contest at Merle Fest.

This model is constructed of African Mahogany.  The top is Stika Spruce and the top bracing is scalloped and shaped by hand to produce a powerful, clean tone.  The fingerboard and bridge are made of ebony for durability as well as beauty.  String vibrations are transmitted to the top by a genuine bone saddle.  The strings are secured by chrome Schaller tuners. The purfling and soundhole are herringbone.  The back is joined by a "zig-zag" backstrip.  The 13/4" neck has wide low fast action frets which make this guitar a joy to play. (A 1 11/16" neck is optional)