Ovation 1537 Elite Prototype #120382-6
Year: 1982
These photos come from an ad published in Japan years ago.
If you are the owner, please feel free to contact me.
Here's here's the original description translate from Japanese:
ULTRA RARE!! Ovation Elite Prototype!!
Ovation took the world by storm from the 80s through the 90s with its groundbreaking design and thick, punchy acoustic-electric sound. Leading the charge was the Super Adamas (produced from 1976), which featured revolutionary specs like a carbon graphite top that defied traditional acoustic guitar conventions. It reigned as the brand's flagship model, favored by nearly every prominent musician of that era.
Now, we have a truly special arrival: a Prototype of the Elite, the definitive epaulet-style model that launched in 1983 and enjoyed long-standing popularity. This particular instrument features an inner label completely different from the mass-produced versions—a "holy grail" piece for any serious collector!
Specifications:
Top: Solid Spruce
Back: Lyrachord (Non-cutaway Deep Bowl)
Neck: 5-piece Mahogany/Maple
Fretboard & Bridge: Walnut
Nut Width: 43mm (actual measurement)
Scale Length: 25.25 inches
While the Elite’s model name changed to 1718 or 1768 around 1985, these early versions were designated as Model 1537. The biggest distinction is that the 1983–1984 Elites were essentially an Adamas II with a wood top substituted for the carbon fiber. Consequently, they share the Adamas II specs: walnut fretboard/bridge, signature position markers, floating fingerboard, stereo pickups, and a preamp with wooden knobs. Since the body construction shifted to the "Legend" style around 1985, these '83–'84 Elites are highly prized by collectors. A look inside the rear access panel reveals a distinct top-bonding method, which explains the robust, resonant acoustic response of these early models.
The Sound:
The unplugged tone is that classic, unique Ovation sound with a powerful, thumping low end. Despite the thick output, the sustain is short and the note separation is crisp—it’s easy to see why lightning-fast shredders loved these. Pre-1990s Ovations have significantly heavier bodies compared to later iterations, resulting in a punchier, "meatier" sound. When plugged in, you have the original wood-knob Volume & Tone controls. While the range isn't as wide as later preamps, the simplicity allows for a direct, thick output that many purists consider the "true" Ovation sound.
Condition:
Previously held in a private collection, this instrument is in beautiful, "mint-adjacent" condition with very few scratches. There is some minor finish sinkage along the grain of the top, but the top remains flat with almost none of the "bellying" or waving often seen in vintage Ovations. There is a small (approx. 1cm) ding near the epaulet on the 1st string side and a few faint "whisker" weather checks near the bridge—to be expected for its age. The rear access door has some buckle rash, but overall, the neck and headstock are virtually spotless, and the gold tuners still shine like new.
Playability:
The neck is in excellent, straight condition. Action is currently set perfectly at roughly 2.5mm on the 6th string and 1.8mm on the 1st string (at the 12th fret). String height can be easily adjusted to your preference by adding or removing the shims under the saddle. The frets show minor wear in the lower positions but retain about 80% of their original height.
With its Adamas II-style inlays and wood binding, this rare prototype exudes an aura of prestige that later Elites simply can't match.
Includes: Original hard case & case cover
Serial Number: 120382-6
