|
 ZEMAITIS |
| POINTS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A ZEMAITIS |
| Prior to spending a large amount of money on what may very well turn out to be a copy of a Zemaitis, it is always best to ask for advice. There are German, Japanese, and English copies. At first glance they may look a little like a Zemaitis, but they will not sound like one due to the use of second-rate materials. Because of the mass produced nature of these fakes, the intonation and general finish will be inferior to the genuine article. Even more alarming, what starts out as a cheap copy changes hands once or twice and eventually ends up being advertised as the real thing without proper research. The more difficult fakes to spot are the genuine Zemaitis guitars that started life as a cheaper version (Student or Test model), and has been unofficially upgraded. In other words, a plain front guitar suddenly becomes a Pearl Front guitar. While parts and pieces will be genuine, the newer finish and general appearance are nothing like the real thing. Always ask for a receipt, even if you are not buying from a shop. Always check the spelling of "Zemaitis." Look at the engraving, and make sure that it is engraved by hand (not photo etching - it is too clean and has not been worked on by hand, (Reprinted courtesy Keith Smart, The Z Gazette). The Blue Book of Acoustic Guitars strongly recommends two or three written estimates of any Zemaitis instrument from accredited sources. If possible, ask to see the original paperwork. Here are two more serious tips: Usually the person who commissioned the guitar has their initials on the truss rod cover. Additionally, some of Zemaitis' acoustic models do not have truss rods. Also, review the printed label and logo (there's only one correct spelling for Mr. Zemaitis' name -- and contrary to word of mouth, he does not intentionally misspell it on his guitars. Prices on models in excellent condition easily start at $10,000 and can go to and above $25,000. |