Description

The Laurie Williams Tui - Old Man River Kauri & Feathered River Rimu is a breathtaking instrument that embodies the rich history of New Zealand’s ancient forests and the visionary craftsmanship of Laurie Williams. Renowned for his ability to transform reclaimed submersion woods into world-class guitars, Laurie has spent decades perfecting his craft, creating instruments that are as visually stunning as they are sonically exceptional. His guitars are revered for their unparalleled resonance, clarity, and sustain—qualities that are elevated by the rare and historically significant woods he carefully selects.

This Tui model is built with an Old Man River Kauri top, a tonewood that has been preserved beneath New Zealand’s waterways for thousands of years. The result is a top that is exquisitely aged, offering an instant response, crisp articulation, and a blooming sustain that makes each note sing with clarity and depth. Paired with Feathered River Rimu back and sides, this guitar delivers an expansive, articulate voice with warm lows, sparkling highs, and a deeply resonant midrange. The River Totara neck provides both stability and a smooth, natural feel, while the ebony fingerboard and bridge enhance the instrument’s note definition and dynamic response.

The craftsmanship on this guitar is nothing short of extraordinary. A River Rimu Burl & Paua rosette adorns the soundhole, complemented by Paua purfling along the top, fingerboard, and headstock, adding a striking touch of iridescent elegance. The River Matai bindings further enhance the guitar’s organic aesthetic, while the lower bout bevel ensures maximum playing comfort. Finished in a flawless high-gloss, the instrument glows with the natural beauty of its ancient, reclaimed timbers.

The Gotoh 510 tuning machines, fitted with Rimu wood buttons, ensure rock-solid tuning stability and a refined touch. The stainless steel frets offer durability and effortless playability, while the 25.5” scale length, 1 3/4” nut width, and 2 1/4” bridge spacing make it an ideal instrument for fingerstyle players and strummers alike.

At just 4 lbs 10 oz, this guitar is remarkably lightweight, yet it carries a voice that is anything but delicate—resonating with endless sustain and a depth that only nature and time could create. Housed in a Carbon Fiber Hoffee Flight Case, the Laurie Williams Tui - Old Man River Kauri & Feathered River Rimu is a true work of art—an heirloom-quality instrument that honors both the past and the future of fine guitar-making.

Other specifications include:

Old Man River Kauri Top
Feathered River Rimu Back & Sides
River Totara Neck
Ebony Fingerboard & Bridge
River Rimu Burl & Paua Rosette
River Matai Bindings
Paua Top, Fingerboard & Headstock Purflings
Lower Bout Bevel
Gloss Finish
Paua Headstock Logo
Paua 12th Fret Inlay
Gotoh 510 Tuning Machines with Rimu Buttons
Stainless Steel Frets
25.5” Scale Length
1 3/4” Nut
2 1/4” Bridge Spacing
Carbon Fiber Hoffee Flight Case
4 lbs 10 oz