Octigan Guitars
ActiveOverview
Octigan Guitars is a custom handmade guitar manufacturer specializing in archtop acoustic and electric guitars, hollow body, semi-hollow body instruments, and mandolins. Founded by luthier Roderick Octigan, the brand is known for bespoke jazz-oriented instruments crafted with sustainably sourced native Australian and imported tonewoods. The company operates as a boutique maker focused on individual commissions rather than mass production, positioning itself in the high-end custom guitar market.
History
Octigan Guitars was founded by Roderick Octigan, a luthier based in Melbourne's east side. The workshop operates as a one-man operation where Octigan designs, crafts, and finishes each instrument entirely by hand. The brand specializes in acoustic jazz archtop guitars and has developed a reputation among musicians seeking custom, handmade instruments with attention to tonal quality and craftsmanship.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic Jazz Archtop Guitars | Custom handmade jazz instruments | $3,000 - $8,000 |
| Hollow Body Electric Guitars | Custom electric jazz guitars | $3,500 - $9,000 |
| Semi-Hollow Body Guitars | Versatile custom electric instruments | $3,000 - $8,500 |
| Mandolins | Custom handmade mandolins | $2,000 - $5,000 |
Manufacturing
All instruments are manufactured in Roderick Octigan's workshop in Melbourne, Australia, with each guitar designed, crafted, and finished entirely by hand. The workshop uses sustainably sourced native Australian and imported tonewoods selected for tonal properties. Production is limited to custom commissions, ensuring individual attention to detail for each instrument.
Notable Products
- Acoustic Jazz Archtop Guitars - Hand-crafted archtop acoustic guitars renowned for jazz performance, built with sustainably sourced tonewoods
- Hollow Body Electric Guitars - Custom electric instruments designed for jazz and blues players seeking vintage-inspired tone and aesthetics
- Semi-Hollow Body Guitars - Versatile custom electric guitars combining acoustic resonance with electric amplification capabilities
Reputation
Octigan Guitars is recognized among professional musicians and enthusiasts for exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in custom instrument building. The brand is particularly sought after by jazz musicians for its archtop guitars and hollow body designs. As a one-man operation, the brand maintains exclusivity and long lead times for commissions, which reinforces its positioning as a premium, artisanal maker rather than a commercial manufacturer.