The Atkin Essential OO12s pairs old world craftsmanship with a compact, supremely responsive 12 fret design, delivering a voice that feels intimate, woody, and alive in the hands. Built by Alister Atkin and his small, highly skilled team in Canterbury, England, this model channels the spirit of treasured pre war small bodies while offering the reliability and refinement demanded by modern players.
Its baked Adirondack spruce top is the heart of the instrument, providing explosive headroom, quick attack, and a dry, seasoned character normally found only in decades old guitars. Matched with mahogany back and sides, the tone is direct and articulate, with a strong midrange focus, airy highs, and a surprisingly authoritative low end for an OO size body. Pre war scalloped bracing in baked red spruce enhances responsiveness and dynamic range, making the guitar equally compelling for fingerstyle nuance and light flatpicking.
Visually, the Age Toned Relic Gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish gives the Essential OO12s the look and feel of a lovingly played heirloom. Tortoise shell binding, black white black purfling, and a matching rosette frame the top with understated vintage elegance, while an ebony backstrip, ebony fingerboard, and ebony bridge add classic contrast. The Indian rosewood headstock overlay carries the Atkin decal with pride, completing the period correct aesthetic.
Comfort is a defining feature of this guitar. The shorter 24.9 inch scale length, generous 1.77 inch nut width, and 12 fret neck joint create a relaxed, inviting playing experience that draws you deeper into the music. With a body length of 19 3/8 inches, lower bout of 14 1/4 inches, and a weight of just 3 lb 11 oz, it feels feather light yet resonant, perfect for long sessions on the couch, in the studio, or on stage.
Premium appointments round out the package, including bone nut and saddle, nickel Gotoh tuners, mother of pearl dot inlays, white celluloid side dots, and an Atkin black case for safe transport.
The Atkin Essential OO12s is for players who crave vintage tone, exceptional build quality, and a deeply personal connection with their instrument. Small in size, enormous in character, and crafted with reverence for the golden era of acoustic guitars, it is the kind of guitar that inspires songs the moment you pick it up.
