I first saw a Seagull about four years ago, the shop wanted $250 for it, with hard case. I wasn't in the market for a guitar but would've bought the damn thing anyway, if I hadn't a been broke! In any event, I told a pal who was looking for a guitar and he had it the next day. Last time I saw it, it was still a great little instrument, and this guy doesn't take care of them. Mick's right, keep an eye on these guys.

Martins have certainly earned their reputation, it's just fun to give 'em a kick since the collectors have turned them into investment icons, besides Mr. Lowe did come out swinging;-) But this thread has got me feeling nostalgic for all the old companions I've had and left along the way. My first guitar was a red & black beast from the S&H green stamp catalogue (remember them?). Its sole reason for existing was to punish aspiring young pickers. Man I had callouses that made doctors jump out of their skins, and military guys step back. So much skin used to peel offa my fingertips fungus used to try and mate with me! My teacher, Tiny Hostetter (a GREAT SOUL) finally took pity on me and upgraded me to a cigar box. He turned the S&H, red & black beast from a pickers purgatory into a lap steel.

I'm currently living pretty good, I'm not rich, but I have been poor as hell, and there are three things I never cheat myself on... good food, good shoes and good guitars.

Frank i.t.s.