Alquier

Overview

Alquier Guitars is a small French luthier operation specializing in custom electric guitars made with sustainable, non-tropical woods like bamboo for backs and fretboards, FSC and ONF certified materials, and high-end components such as titanium.¹²⁵ Operated from a workshop in Le Soler, it produces around 20 guitars annually, focusing on bespoke designs with classic automobile aesthetics, old-world construction, and tonal versatility, available directly with wait times of 3-6 months.²

History

Jean-Yves Alquier handcrafts guitars in his Le Soler, France workshop, driven by passions for woodworking, drawing, and sculpture.² For the past 6 years, his instruments have exclusively used eco-managed non-tropical woods, bamboo, and premium materials like titanium.⁵ He collaborates with pickup specialist Nicolas Mercadal and is integrating builder Marc Senn to specialize in basses, while recently launching a Kickstarter for the limited Cosmic ONE model.¹²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Guitars are hand-built in small quantities in the workshop in Le Soler, France, by Jean-Yves Alquier, using only local non-tropical woods, bamboo, and materials like titanium.¹²⁵ Production is approximately 20 guitars per year, with custom orders taking six months and standard models three months.²

Notable Products

• Cosmic ONE - Limited to 100 signed and numbered units with flamed maple top, bamboo back, titanium wraparound bridge, and custom P90 pickups.
• Bamboo-backed Guitars - Models featuring bamboo backs and fretboards with FSC/ONF certified local woods for sustainability.

Reputation

Enthusiasts praise Alquier for breathtaking designs blending traditional construction with innovative sustainable materials and automobile-inspired aesthetics, offering surprising tonal versatility.² Professionals note the high custom quality from the small workshop operation.² Limited production and direct sales may restrict accessibility.²