Buffing out an older high end Taylor

[Johnny Guitar]

Hi all,

I recently acquired a 93 Taylor 912 ce in great condition. The only issue is that the rosewood back and sides are dull and almost have a white film on it. Is it safe to have a Taylor factory recommended shop buff it out? Are there any negatives to this. The guitar is in excellent condition except for the dull finish.  Any advice would be appreciated.

[Strumming Fool]

I'm not sure of what the finish composition was for '93 Taylors. You may want to call Taylor to determine the safest way to restore the shine.  They are very helpful people.

By the way, I've played a few 90s 912s over the years, and they were very impressive guitars. Play it in good health!

[zeebow]

wow! i’m jealous, i’ve been thinking of a 90s 912 for some time. i would call taylor customer service, but they will likely send you to a gold level certified shop. you can look up dealer repair level online, but i have found it’s not kept up to date

[StrummingMadMan]

Hi all,

I recently acquired a 93 Taylor 912 ce in great condition. The only issue is that the rosewood back and sides are dull and almost have a white film on it. Is it safe to have a Taylor factory recommended shop buff it out? Are there any negatives to this. The guitar is in excellent condition except for the dull finish.  Any advice would be appreciated.

Yes, it is safe to have a professional do this. There are definitely negatives. I’ve been working on guitars most of my life and was taught by Dad. I always learned to not mess with the original finish unless necessary. If resale value is in your mind, it will negatively affect that. But overall, it’s a lengthy, labor intensive process to go through. I can’t tell you how much it would cost or how long it would take without inspecting the guitar. But I have charged upwards of $500 for certain jobs like that before. Personally, I would leave it alone if at all possible. But it is your guitar and your choice. Just make sure to talk to the tech or Luthier and get all the information you can and their opinion.