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1980 Olson Dreadnought, Indian Rosewood/Spruce
An extraordinary early gem from the legendary bench of Jim Olson—serial number 56, and the earliest Olson we’ve ever had the pleasure of offering here at Dream Guitars. This is a 1980 Olson Dreadnought built with Indian Rosewood back and sides paired with a Spruce top, and it’s a remarkable window into the genesis of one of the most sought-after modern luthiers in the world.
Already in this early work, you can see Jim experimenting with and refining the tonal architecture that would later define his signature sound: clarity, balance, and warmth, all housed in a traditional dreadnought frame. The Indian Rosewood delivers depth and power, while the Spruce top offers a quick, articulate response—qualities that have only improved with decades of play.
A Schertler Bluestick pickup has been installed, making this piece ready for the stage as well as the studio. And yes, this guitar has been played—and beautifully so. The honest play wear tells a story of music made and miles traveled, the kind of patina that speaks to a life well lived in sound. We love seeing instruments like this: well-loved, open, and alive.
For the collector, this is an incredibly rare opportunity to own a historically significant Olson, from a time before his waitlist stretched for years and his name became synonymous with bespoke tone. And for the player, it’s a chance to experience the roots of that Olson magic—warm, articulate, and undeniably musical.
Other keywords/misspellings: Luthier, lutherie, handmade, james taylor, 56
$14,040 Add to cartScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.688 in String Spacing 2.125 in Woods Spruce, Rosewood - Indian 
2017 Olson 40th Anniversary SJ Cutaway, Brazilian Rosewood/Sinker Cedar
We’ve seen a number of incredible Olsons over the years, and lately we’ve been lucky to see even more. This one is a particularly juicy gem, the only guitar Jim built in commemoration of his 40th anniversary as a builder! Accordingly, only the highest grade Brazilian Rosewood was used for the back and sides, paired with a golden-brown Sinker Cedar top and 42-style Abalone trim. Flamed Koa bindings pair up with a full vine inlay along the fretboard and headplate, with a Brazilian Rosewood backplate to set off the Gotoh tuners. The classic L.R. Baggs LB6 pickup was installed by Jim at the time of construction, and this fantastic SJ Cutaway has been lovingly cared for these past three years.
Other keywords: lutherie, luthier, guitarbuilidng, james olson, james taylor, red cedar, 5-ply, fingerstyle, bespoke guitar, anniversary guitar, fortieth anniversary, fingerpicking, paua abalone, MainStage
Additional demo: https://youtu.be/kIjRNsGBP0c
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Brazilian 
2008 Olson Jumbo 12-String, Indian Rosewood/Spruce
From 2008, a rarity from the workshop of Jim Olson: a Jumbo 12-string. Yes, you read that right—a 12-string Olson. Indian Rosewood for the back and sides, Spruce on top, and classic abalone appointments. This guitar was refinished by Jim Olson himself in 2023, coming to us today with essentially brand new condition. On top of that, the setup is silk smooth, even moreso for a 12-string. As far as we know, this is the last Olson 12-string ever made. Custom Calton case to keep all this goodness safe and sound. So get it while you can!
Other keywords/misspellings: Luthier, lutherie, bespoke, james, taylor, calton.
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.875 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Spruce, Rosewood - Indian 
2012 Olson SJ Collector Series #1400, Brazilian Rosewood/Cedar
Jim Olson #1400 – Collector Series SJ in Brazilian Rosewood
To commemorate his 1,400th guitar, Jim Olson has crafted a Collector Series SJ from 2012 that reflects the detail, refinement, and musicality that define his work. Built from highly figured Brazilian Rosewood, this instrument showcases Olson’s nuanced aesthetic and tonal sensibility.
The guitar features Paua abalone top trim with a Style-42 fingerboard extension, and matching back perimeter and end wedge detailing. A Paua-bordered headstock frames a solid 14K gold infilled “O” logo, a subtle yet striking signature touch.
A wide Paua and Brazilian Rosewood rosette anchors the top, while the peghead back veneer and neck, also Brazilian, is accented with WBW purfling for added visual depth.
The fingerboard is brought to life with a custom inlay by Larry Robinson, featuring solid gold vine work interwoven with various shell elements—offering a quiet sense of celebration for this milestone build.
A refined, richly appointed Olson—designed to honor a remarkable career of craftsmanship and tone.
Other keywords/misspellings: Luthier, lutherie, bespoke, james, taylor, 1400
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Brazilian 
2003 Olson SJ, Indian Rosewood/Cedar
2003 Olson SJ, crafted with Indian Rosewood and Cedar. Though just barely old enough to celebrate its 21st birthday (at the time of publication), this guitar has been impeccably preserved, showing none of its age. Adorned with stunning Abalone dove inlays, abalone trim, and a beautifully detailed rosette, it embodies Olson’s timeless elegance. True to Olson’s reputation, it features the iconic LB-6 Pickup, making it equally at home in a cherished collection, the recording studio, or ready to captivate on stage.
SOLD Sale! Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Indian 
2000 Olson SJ Cutaway, Indian Rosewood/Cedar
From the year 2000, we have a classic, gorgeously appointed Olson SJ Cutaway. Featuring Indian Rosewood for the back and sides, and Cedar on top, it’s equipped with an LB6 pickup, ready for both stage and studio. Art Nouveau inlays and abalone outlining the top and rosette complete the stunning aesthetics. This guitar has all the elements one expects from Jim Olson, and after 24 years of playing, it’s fully opened up—warm and sweet.
Other keywords/misspellings: Luthier, lutherie, bespoke, James Taylor, lR baggs, calton, 941
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Indian 
2010 Olson SJ Cutaway, Brazilian Rosewood/Cedar
Pure glass from trebles to bass. The voice mixes up handsomely across the registers, lots of velvet riches from note to note. And this is hardly surprising, coming from a 2010 Olson SJ Cutaway dressed up with extensive vine inlays and Brazilian Rosewood body plus Cedar top. The voice has opened up heaps since 2010; the L.R. Baggs Anthem pickup sounds great to boot. Jim’s guitars are exceptionally collectible, and the added Abalone appointments further set this one apart from the crowd.
Other keywords: lutherie, james olson, mainstage, james olson, phil keaggy, fingerstyle, 1336, brazilain
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.188 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Brazilian 
1992 Olson SJ, Indian Rosewood/Cedar
Built in 1992, this Olson SJ has seen lots of music in its almost 30 years, previously owned by Christian powerhouse Israel Houghton, and still plays great today. Indian Rosewood back and sides with Cedar on top, Jim’s classic five-ply Mahogany/Cedar/Rosewood neck, MOP dot inlays in lieu of the more common doves, and a Fishman Matrix Infinity dual source pickup system has been installed to carry you faithfully onto the stage. Our repair staff has recently reglued the bridge and dressed the frets, giving this Olson an effortless setup to keep the good music flowing.
Other keywords: lutherie, luthier, james olson, james taylor, tkl, 362
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Indian 
2007 Olson SJ Cutaway Brazilian Rosewood/Cedar
We see a litany of “Holy Grail” guitars here at the shop. This 2007 Olson SJ is certainly one of them! Not only is it absolutely gorgeous visually but also sonically. Incredible Brazilian Rosewood and Cedar are the magical ingredients for this shimmery and overtone rich axe! Trimmed out in Koa as well as having more Brazilian Rosewood practically anywhere Jim could manage. It’s no wonder these are so sought after.
Other keywords/misspellings: Luthier, lutherie, fingerstyle, bespoke, calton, LB-6, L.R. Baggs, 1209
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Brazilian 
2002 Olson 25th Anniversary SJ Brazilian Rosewood/Cedar
It’s safe to say that this 2002 25th Anniversary SJ from Jim Olson, is proof positive that Jim has long hit his stride. Jim pulled out all the stops on this one. Decadent and rich in presentation and timbre. This instrument is mesmerizing in more ways than one. This is the quintessential and superlative of Olson Guitars. Cedar on top, complete with gorgeous Brazilian Rosewood back and sides; These are not just the ingredients for an amazing guitar, but for an amazing Olson.
Other keywords/misspellings: Luthier, lutherie, mainstage, James Taylor, fingerstyle, milestone, calton
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Brazilian 
2002 Olson Jumbo Cutaway, Indian Rosewood/Spruce
Pack a little more oomph in your Olson experience with this 2002 Jumbo! Jim’s so well known for his SJs, but pound for pound we love his fulltilt Jumbos too: you get all the sparkle and balance that are standard to one of Jim’s guitars, but with the added depth and presence that only a bigger box can offer. Indian Rosewood body with Sitka Spruce top, florentine cutaway, and Jim further upgraded this beauty wiht striking Abalone trim for the top and rosette, plus headstock, and inlaid intricate fleur-de-lis style position markers along the fingerboard.
Very well cared for and ready for more action! Snag this big boy Olson before it heads home with another.
Other keywords: james olson, james taylor, flattop, lutherie, luthier, 1027, avs tweed
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.781 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Spruce, Rosewood - Indian 
2000 Olson SJ, Striped Mahogany/Sitka Spruce
Here we got a gorgeous example of Jim Olson’s work, with some atypical wood combinations. Mahogany and Sitka Spruce is by no means an unheard of combo, but Jim is mostly known for his Rosewood and Cedar guitars. So this 2000 SJ really stands out from the mix and brings some fresh flavor to the table. A quick voice, snappy and punchy. Playability is classic Olson, very easy on the hands. Slender net profile. Looking for a unique Olson to add a splash to your collection? Ready for the plucking!
Other keywords: lutherie, james olson, 923, fingerstyle, james taylor
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Spruce - Sitka, Mahogany 
2011 Olson SJ “The Lion,” Brazilian Rosewood/Cedar
A masterpiece from Jim Olson, and a work of art from Larry Robinson. The 2011 Olson Lion is incredible. Brazilian Rosewood back and sides with Cedar top and extensive Abalone trim, cutaway, BRW rosette and bindings–then Larry’s intricate inlay artwork all along the fingerboard and headstock. A pair of lions peer out from under the strings, the outlines of their bodies reminscent of twinned mountains, while a dramatic sunscape is rendered above them in various shades of pearl and shell and 14-18ct gold. The attention to detail is astonishing, and the flawlessness of the execution humbling. Then there’s the voice. Crystal clear and responsive, top end chime and a bass register that fills the voice without overpowering it.
Other keywords: lutherie, james olson, calton, 1373, inlay art, bespoke, brazilain
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Brazilian 
1995 Olson SJ, Indian Rosewood/Cedar
Owned by Cheryl Wheeler, no less! This 1995 Olson SJ, dubbed “Olive Oil” by Wheeler, is from one of our favorite periods of Jim’s career. Olsons from the mid 90s just have a special color and openness that is a joy to experience, and this one’s got it in spades. It’s been played in and opened up handsomely (thanks, Cheryl!), is in excellent playing shape with a slender neck and 1 11/16” nut, L.R. Baggs LB6 pickup, and a bombproof Calton flight case with custom Small Dog cover. Cedar top over Indian Rosewood body, non cutaway, and weighs in at about 4.75 pounds.
Other keywords: lutherie, luthier, guitarbuilding, james olson, james taylor, red cedar, 5-ply, fingerstyle, fingerpicking
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.688 in String Spacing 2.125 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Indian 
2000 Olson SJ Cutaway, Indian Rosewood/Cedar
So much tone packed into one guitar. Our 2000 Olson SJ in Indian Rosewood and Cedar has opened up handsomely, and is still in gorgeous shape. Lush bass response pairs nicely with an articulate midrange and trebles that have that elusive blooming quality that makes a note sound fuller and richer a moment after the initial attack. The perfect toolkit for the fingerstylist, and an L.R. Baggs pickup to carry you faithfully onto the amplified stage. DADGAD and beyond, or keep it in standard all day long—the note separation and slinky setup will keep you more than entertained.
Other spellings: olsen, oilson, oson, flingerstyle
SOLD Read moreScale Length 25.4 in Nut Width 1.75 in String Spacing 2.25 in Woods Cedar, Rosewood - Indian
James A. Olson (“Jim”) has been handcrafting acoustic flattop guitars since 1977. His instruments began getting national attention in the mid 1980s, after Phil Keaggy commissioned the first cedar-topped Olson SJ guitar and began playing Olson guitars almost exclusively on his acoustic albums and in concert. In 1989, James Taylor purchased three of Jim’s guitars; through Taylor’s visibility, Olson guitars became known and prized by a wide variety of players around the world. Today an impressive number of well-known players in styles spanning fingerstyle to bluegrass to country to pop are proud Olson owners, including Leo Kottke, David Wilcox, James Taylor, Graham Nash, Sting, and many others. But most of the 40+ or so guitars Jim is able to build each year go to players of less renown (like those of us who contributed to this site, and perhaps like you), although of perhaps equally discriminating taste!