New 2017 Northfield Artist Finish

[yankees1]

I had an early Northfield F5 and it had finish problems as others did with the finish becoming cloudy and worn spots easily made. Fast forward to today ( 2017) has Northfield changed their finish recipe/process to eliminate these problems ?

[Chris Daniels]

From the Northfield website regarding the finish on their Big Mon (nee Master Model). Although from what I can tell, early on there were MM's what were not Big Mon. I'm sure someone will correct any incorrect assumptions.:

Big Mon
Originally we finished the Big Mon completely in spirit varnish. In response to a demand for a more durable finish on this model we started in 2016 applying a varnish/lacquer hybrid. We retained the acoustically and visually superior attributes of shellac while adding an extremely thin topcoat of Lacquer for protection from moisture and heat.
Varnish Hybrid
Hand applied alcohol stain

C.

[bigskygirl]

I have a 2015 Master Model (not a Big Mon body) and the finish is great. A friend of mine had an early one and had finish problems but Northfield worked to fix it and finally replaced the mando and he’s satisfied. I believe the Master Model has evolved into the Artist Series now.

[yankees1]

I have a 2015 Master Model (not a Big Mon body) and the finish is great. A friend of mine had an early one and had finish problems but Northfield worked to fix it and finally replaced the mando and he’s satisfied. I believe the Master Model has evolved into the Artist Series now. Great to know ! I will have to get with Adrian and possibly get a Northfield f5 !

[bigskygirl]

Great to know ! I will have to get with Adrian and possibly get a Northfield f5 !

Actually I just looked at the label and mine is a 2014...my, how time flies...just wanted to correct that my F5M is going on 3 YO now and finish is still great except for the dings and marks I’ve put on it.

[Spruce]

I had an early Northfield F5 and it had finish problems as others did with the finish becoming cloudy and worn spots easily made.

Sounds like these instruments would be good candidates for antiquing...

[yankees1]

Sounds like these instruments would be good candidates for antiquing... Mine was definitely antiqued but it did sound good !