Jolana Guitars

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Overview

Jolana is a Czech guitar brand originally producing electric guitars and basses from 1959 to around 1991 in Czechoslovakia, known for models like Tornado and Diamant. Revived in the late 2000s by NBE Corp., it now manufactures reissues of classic designs in Hořovice, Czech Republic, combining traditional Czech craftsmanship with modern production.¹²⁴

History

Jolana guitars originated in 1959 in Czechoslovakia, becoming the country's most prominent guitar brand in the 1960s, with production initially in locations like Hradec Kralove under CSHN. Manufacturing ceased around 1991. In the late 2000s, NBE Corp. revived the brand, resuming production of classic models in Hořovice.²⁴⁵

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Tornado (solidbody electric)	versatile rock and blues guitar	$800 - $1,500
Diamant (offset electric)	vintage-inspired offset model	$900 - $1,600
Grazioso (semi-hollow)	jazz and fusion semi-acoustic	$1,000 - $1,800
Star X (pointy solidbody)	metal and hard rock design	$850 - $1,400

Manufacturing

Instruments are manufactured in the NBE Corp. factory in Hořovice, Czech Republic. Production blends traditional Czech methods with modern technology for revived classic models.⁴⁶

Notable Products

Tornado - Iconic solidbody electric guitar from the original era, reissued with updated hardware.
Diamant - Offset-waist electric model popular in the 1960s-1980s, known for unique aesthetics.
Grazioso - Semi-hollow guitar with resonant tone, favored for its playability.
Star X - Angular solidbody design reminiscent of 1970s metal guitars.

Reputation

Jolana is appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique Eastern Bloc heritage and quirky vintage designs from the communist era, often collected for rarity. Modern reissues receive praise for quality craftsmanship matching global standards, though some criticize them for lacking the raw imperfections of originals. Professionals note solid build but limited mainstream recognition outside collector circles.⁴⁷

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