What is the value of an Aspen AD35 acoustical guitar?

Answer 1

The Aspen AD35 made in Japan is one of those best kept secret Guitars that is now getting the recognition that only a choice few were privy to until recently. It is the flagship top of line acoustic for this company intended to compete with Martin's D35.

Original owners generally state an average purchase price of $300 new in the mid / latter 1970's. to get in indication of the quality & pricing of the era, I paid $275 for a new us made Martin D28 in 1972. So that was a lot for money for a MIJ guitar of the day.

Many have noted that in spite of the post Brazilian Rosewood International ban, this model was often constructed with solid Brazilian Rosewood ( Japan is not known for it's compliance of International bans (ie) contemporary whaling.

Excellent craftsmanship of the Aspen AD35 as well as the all solid high quality tone woods have made this acoustic Dreadnaught Survivor sought after by players and collectors alike. It's signature sound is rich and full and very close to Martin's D35.

Pricing as of 2011 is on the rise. Asking price ranges from a few hundred dollars to as high as $2000 as noted on the net. One went on the market a few months ago and sold for $750 very quickly. Depending on the condition, expect to pay $500 to $1000 for one in good condition. They are sometimes found at yard sales, flea markets etc on the cheap but getting rare.

It is important to note that Aspens AD35 model is unique to the companies average builds. Most if not all the other models fail to share it' all solid quality tone wood construction. The Aspen AD35 is the cream of the companies crop. Most, if not all of of the lower end models do not share it's value. Be sure to Look for the Gold Foil Aspen Label well marked AD35 with a corresponding serial number.