
Van der Gaag 'Waikato' OM Blackwood 2009
This Van der Gaag OM from 2009 is a beautifully crafted guitar from Johan van der Gaag’s Waikato series, named after the region in New Zealand. Built with solid Tasmanian Blackwood for both the top and body, it offers a warm and balanced tone. With a built-in LR Baggs Element pickup it is suited for both acoustic and amplified performances. The guitar is in good condition, with only minor signs of playwear, though it may require a neck reset in the coming years due to its slightly higher action.
Johan van der Gaag, originally from the Netherlands, began his lutherie journey in 2002 after moving back to Holland. He fell in love with guitar building and specialized in crafting instruments using native New Zealand woods. This particular OM model, featuring scalloped X-bracing and a natural gloss finish, showcases his blend of traditional craftsmanship with local timbers like Tasmanian Blackwood, known for its balanced tonal qualities and striking visual appeal.
While the guitar is structurally sound, there is a patch of Blackwood in its waist, likely added during the building process to cover a minor error. This doesn’t affect its structural integrity or playability. Equipped with Gotoh 510 Gold tuning machines, an ebony fingerboard and bridge, and a solid mahogany neck, it ensures stable tuning and a smooth playing experience. A neck reset has been performed to optimize the neck angle.
The neck’s C profile and 44.5 mm nut width offer comfortable playability for a variety of styles. While the action is currently a bit above average due to a low saddle, the guitar remains enjoyable to play and produces a rich, resonant sound. For those seeking a well-crafted instrument with character, this Van der Gaag OM is an excellent choice.
Housed in a hardshell case and accompanied by an LR Baggs Lyric pickup, this guitar delivers a reliable performance whether on stage or in the studio. Its unique blend of local craftsmanship and carefully selected materials ensures a sound that is as visually stunning as it is musically dynamic.
Original: $2,499.00
-70%$2,499.00
$749.70Product Information
Product Information
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Description
This Van der Gaag OM from 2009 is a beautifully crafted guitar from Johan van der Gaag’s Waikato series, named after the region in New Zealand. Built with solid Tasmanian Blackwood for both the top and body, it offers a warm and balanced tone. With a built-in LR Baggs Element pickup it is suited for both acoustic and amplified performances. The guitar is in good condition, with only minor signs of playwear, though it may require a neck reset in the coming years due to its slightly higher action.
Johan van der Gaag, originally from the Netherlands, began his lutherie journey in 2002 after moving back to Holland. He fell in love with guitar building and specialized in crafting instruments using native New Zealand woods. This particular OM model, featuring scalloped X-bracing and a natural gloss finish, showcases his blend of traditional craftsmanship with local timbers like Tasmanian Blackwood, known for its balanced tonal qualities and striking visual appeal.
While the guitar is structurally sound, there is a patch of Blackwood in its waist, likely added during the building process to cover a minor error. This doesn’t affect its structural integrity or playability. Equipped with Gotoh 510 Gold tuning machines, an ebony fingerboard and bridge, and a solid mahogany neck, it ensures stable tuning and a smooth playing experience. A neck reset has been performed to optimize the neck angle.
The neck’s C profile and 44.5 mm nut width offer comfortable playability for a variety of styles. While the action is currently a bit above average due to a low saddle, the guitar remains enjoyable to play and produces a rich, resonant sound. For those seeking a well-crafted instrument with character, this Van der Gaag OM is an excellent choice.
Housed in a hardshell case and accompanied by an LR Baggs Lyric pickup, this guitar delivers a reliable performance whether on stage or in the studio. Its unique blend of local craftsmanship and carefully selected materials ensures a sound that is as visually stunning as it is musically dynamic.























