Arguably the most refined version of Maton’s various 1960s ‘Slenderline’ models, this Maton Sapphire Deluxe has serial number on the interior label reading525 (1169) indicating a build date of November 1969. This is a well-cared-for example, with minimal playing wear for its age. The single-bound, figured cherry-red Maple body looks and feels great, while the Mahogany neck and 9.5 radius fretboard are all in very good original condition, with frets at 90%. Pickups, electronics, knobs (including Master Vol on the treble bout) and switchgear are all original and correct. At some point tuners were replaced with German-made Schallers as shown. The tremolo system is original, however the tremolo arm was missing and we have recently fitted a suitably correct replacement arm. This fine guitar plays as well as it looks and is matched perfectly with its original plush lined Stamford case. We can’t recall seeing a nicer example in recent years.