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I have a 1966 Conde Hermanos which I don't know a great deal about. The only information I can find is the internal sticker, reading:
Ano 19 / Gravino, 7 / Atocho, 53 / Madrid Espana
It is amazingly light, has a wonderful bright yet warm tone and fast action.
The only problem at the moment are the tuners - pegs - one of which is broken. What are your thoughts on replacing these with more modern machine heads or should I persist and have the pegs maintained?
Also if anyone knows any more about the history of this particular model, I'd be most interested to hear about it.
RE: 1966 Conde Hermanos: tuners (in reply to Guest)
Can´t advise on the history very much other than to say that the 60´s were generally good years for Gravina Condes.
What is the headstock like?
I´d have the peg replaced and give them all a dusting with French chalk to make them turn easily. If you have machines fitted the balance will be altered and that nice light weight feel you describe, might be lost.
Certainly the pegs contribute to the overall charm of the instrument, and I don't think I'd want to comprimise its weight. Though, would work need to be done on the bridge if the tuners were replaced?
RE: 1966 Conde Hermanos: tuners (in reply to Guest)
Andy, You might want to consider mechanical pegs. They look like the traditional solid wooden pegs, but have an internal geared mecanism, and they are not too heavy. Check out this website: www.pegheds.com