Bernhard Kresse

Bernhard Kresse is a German guitar maker and restorer with over 25 years of experience specializing in 19th-century historical instruments by makers such as Stauffer, Lacôte, Panormo, Torres, and Hauser. His workshop focuses on precise restorations and conservation work, aiming to preserve the instrument’s original character and sound. He serves professional musicians, collectors, and museums around the world.

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About the Guitar Maker

Bernhard Kresse is a distinguished German luthier and restorer specializing in historical plucked instruments. Over the past 25 years, he has carried out numerous restorations on early 19th-century romantic guitars—including those by Stauffer, Panormo, Lacôte, and Fabricatore—as well as Spanish-style guitars built by Arias, Torres, Garcia, and Hauser. His clientele includes professional musicians, private collectors, conservatories, and museums.

Repair and Restoration Philosophy

In addition to standard repairs and overhauls, his workshop also undertakes extensive restoration projects. The primary goal is often to return an instrument to playing condition. However, depending on the instrument’s condition and rarity, a more conservative approach—focused on preserving its original state—may be more appropriate. Such decisions are always made in close consultation with the owner before work begins.

Conservation Methods

For Bernhard Kresse, a conservative restoration approach means that every intervention must be as reversible as possible. This requires the use of traditional hide glues, as employed for centuries in violin making, allowing for future rework when necessary. Preserving all original parts, including the finish, is a top priority. The replacement of entire components—for example, in cases of woodworm damage or severe deterioration—is considered only as a last resort.