Model #1537 · Family: 1537
walnut binding, 2 knob stereo electr, A/E (1st wood topped Adamas)
Year: 1983
1983 German-language Ovation newsletter featuring the complete product lineup including Adamas, Elite (new for 1983), Balladeer, Legend, Custom Legend, Anniversary, Classic, Cutaway, and Solid-Body series. Includes Nancy Wilson interview, Sigi Schwab Ovation Prize feature, Tech Talk on the Kaman Bar, endorsee news, J.H. Rickard column on bracing, and Kaman Musical Strings catalog. Distributed by Musik Meyer GmbH, Marburg. Priced at 3 DM.
Year: 1983
Review by Steven Dupler from International Musician & Recording World (IM&RW), July 1983. Covers the Ovation Adamas Elite 1537, a spruce-topped variant of the graphite Adamas series featuring a Sitka Spruce AAA grade top, deep-bowl pebble-grained Lyrachord body, 5-piece maple/walnut neck with 22 frets, stereo piezoelectric pickup system with FET preamp, and Adamas-style 22 multi-sized sound holes. Priced from $1,015 to $1,195.
Year: 1984
This is a 4-page German-language wholesale (Brutto) price list dated 2/84 (second edition 1984) covering the full Ovation guitar lineup distributed in Germany. The catalog includes Applause, Ultra, Ovation electro-acoustic western and nylon string models, Adamas and Super Adamas series, Cutaway models, Ovation electric guitars (E-Gitarren) and basses, along with cases and strings. Prices are listed in Deutsche Mark and the document notes left-handed models, available colors, and electronics configurations.
Year: 2010
Many thanks to Patrick from USA for the very nice pictures of that beautiful guitar!! It has the same specs as a standard 1537, like the walnut binding, deep bowl, and no cutaway, with the following customizations: Solid Figured Redwood top Inlaid Epaulettes Abalone binding Carved Ebony Bridge Upgraded FET electronics
Year: 1975
Glen Campbell Bluebird 12 Strings Electric (Thanks to Ken for permission to use his photos) (1975-1982) Another true rarity!! This model is the 12-string "Bluebird" designed for and with Glen Campbell. Approximately 8 examples were produced for Glen between 1975 and 1982, and 6 of the 8 are 6-strings. The design is that of a "Viper," but unlike the latter, the top is made of aluminum covered with ureter. This innovation would later be used for the "UK II" model. Another distinctive feature is that the "Bluebird" is equipped with active electronics, like the "Breadwinner" guitars of the time. Under the pickguard on the back of the guitar are two control knobs: one to adjust the pickup volume and the other to adjust the effect. Specifications: (See photos at the bottom of the page) Viper 12 Series Model G.C Bluebird 12 Production years 1975 - 1982 Original list price ??? Color Blue/Beige Glitter Pickups 2 Humbuckers Viper or Preacher type Preamp Active electronics Controls Volume, Tone, 2 switches: pickup selector and phase inverter Mono output Top Aluminum covered with Urelite (like the UK II model) Neck 3-piece Maple and Mahogany Tuners Ovation/Schaller Gold Frets 24 Fingerboard Rosewood or Ebony Inlays 20 Diamonds Notes: Model made specifically with and for Glenn Campbell.
Year: 1970
Glen Campbell Signature Classic (Thanks to Ken for permission to use his photos). This Ovation Classic model (Model 1123-4 E, Serial No. X010) features a prototype Barcus-Berry stereo pickup. The passive electronics system with a volume knob is mounted directly to the top and has a 5-pin XLR output on the back. The top is cedar, and the back is from an Artist model. Other features include a 19-fret neck and the "Glen Campbell" signature on the truss rod cover. Apparently, Glen didn't play this guitar much as he wasn't happy with the sound. Specifications: (See photos at the bottom of the page) Series G.C Signature Classic Model 1123-4 E Production Years Prototype List Price at the time Color Natural Pickups Barcus Berry Preamp Controls Volume Stereo Output Top Cedar Neck 5 Piece Maple and Mahogany Tuners ??? Frets 19 Fingerboard Ebony Fret Markers
Year: 1968
Glen Campbell Signature Proto (Thanks to Ken for permission to use his photos) (1968) This guitar isn't Glen Campbell's first Ovation, but it was the first one made specifically for him. It's actually the prototype of the "Glen Campbell Signature" model that would be produced for over 30 years. Only 50 to 100 of these were produced in the very first series of G.C. Signature guitars. The difference from later models is the glossy (untextured) Lyrachord body and the "Deluxe" inscription on the headstock. This prototype is the only one to have the initials "G.C." inlaid at the 12th fret, a feature never found on any production model. It's also worth noting that this model is one of the very first to be produced with the famous "X" bracing. Specifications: (See photos at the bottom of the page) Series G.C Signature Model 1127 / 1627 Production years 1968 - 198? Original list price $365 Color Natural Pickups Piezo Preamp FET Controls Volume and Tone Mono Output Top AAA Spruce Neck 5 Piece Maple and Mahogany Tuners Gold Ovation Frets 22 Fingerboard Ebony Inlays 12 Diamonds + GC at the 12th Fret Notes:
Year: 2009
Many thanks to John Mitzel from USA the lucky owner of that beautiful guitar!! Custom Adamas Parlor that used an Ovation 93C neck. It has an Op-Pro Studio and sounds awesome!!
Year: 1970
Condor Ovation (Around 1970) First of all, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Joseph, a guitar collector and seller in the USA, who granted me permission to use the photos of this incredible guitar. This very rare and, to my knowledge, almost unique model was sold online for $1790. It is probably the first "synthesizer" guitar ever produced, even predating the Ludwig Phase II. This confirms that C. Kaman was always ahead of his time and constantly seeking innovation. Attached is a link to the superb guitars that Joseph is currently selling on oliviasvintage. Made based on a Hurricane "storm series" model, this guitar is equipped with a pickup mounted on a special bridge. This guitar was specifically designed to be equipped with this pickup, which is why the pickups are closer together than on a classic Hurricane, why it's called the "Condor," and why it's not an Ovation. The synthesizer is by Innovex, a division of Hammond.
Year: 1984
Many Thanks to Bernd from Germany for these wonderful photos.
Year: 1970
Ovation Thunderhead X-009 Custom made for Jerry Reed. Many Thanks to Wayne Reid from Canada for these so nice pictures. The guitar was built for Jerry when he was a semi-regular musical guest on the 1970 season of the "Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour television show". Prototype features include a mahogany (instead of maple) neck, prototype De'Armond single-coil pickups with a switching setup similar the Fender Telecaster both in placement and function. It also has a custom pickguard with a different shape and Jerry Reed" and "Ovation " inlaid into it. (1970)
Showing items from all 1537 variants
Year: 1983
1983 German-language Ovation newsletter featuring the complete product lineup including Adamas, Elite (new for 1983), Balladeer, Legend, Custom Legend, Anniversary, Classic, Cutaway, and Solid-Body series. Includes Nancy Wilson interview, Sigi Schwab Ovation Prize feature, Tech Talk on the Kaman Bar, endorsee news, J.H. Rickard column on bracing, and Kaman Musical Strings catalog. Distributed by Musik Meyer GmbH, Marburg. Priced at 3 DM.
Year: 1983
Review by Steven Dupler from International Musician & Recording World (IM&RW), July 1983. Covers the Ovation Adamas Elite 1537, a spruce-topped variant of the graphite Adamas series featuring a Sitka Spruce AAA grade top, deep-bowl pebble-grained Lyrachord body, 5-piece maple/walnut neck with 22 frets, stereo piezoelectric pickup system with FET preamp, and Adamas-style 22 multi-sized sound holes. Priced from $1,015 to $1,195.
Year: 1984
This is a 4-page German-language wholesale (Brutto) price list dated 2/84 (second edition 1984) covering the full Ovation guitar lineup distributed in Germany. The catalog includes Applause, Ultra, Ovation electro-acoustic western and nylon string models, Adamas and Super Adamas series, Cutaway models, Ovation electric guitars (E-Gitarren) and basses, along with cases and strings. Prices are listed in Deutsche Mark and the document notes left-handed models, available colors, and electronics configurations.
Year: 1980
This is a collection of internal Ovation Guitar Company memoranda and handwritten notes spanning 1980 to 1984, documenting the research, development, and production planning of various guitar models including the Super Legend, Elite, Adamas, and Ultra series. The documents cover topics such as proposed model features, soundboard aging experiments using chemical treatments (KOH, calcium acetate), quality control standards for Elite soundboards, and new product introduction plans through June 1984. Key personnel including C.W. Kaman, N. Mackin, J. Rickard, W.D. Weigel, and A.K. Drewett are referenced throughout the correspondence.
Year: 2013
This is an official Ovation guitar distribution price list effective from January 1, 2013, distributed by Fender Ibérica for the Spanish market. It covers the full range of Ovation and Applause instruments including USA-made models, Pro series, Celebrity series, and accessories with recommended retail prices in Euros excluding VAT. The catalog spans premium limited editions like the Adamas and artist signature models through to entry-level Applause instruments and accessories such as cases and gig bags.
Year: 1983
This is a single-page 1983 Ovation Guitars advertisement focused on their signature Roundback Bowl design, presented as the third in a series of technical updates for guitarists. The ad explains the engineering history and acoustic benefits of the rounded back design, featuring the Acoustic Electric Elite model and diagrams of Deep, Shallow, and Super Shallow bowl variations. Contact information points to Ovation Instruments, Inc., a Kaman Company, located in Bloomfield, Connecticut.
Year: 2005
Three-page Italian-language review from SM magazine (Maggio/May issue, pages 60-62) of the Ovation Standard Elite LX (model 6778LX, serial number 578615). Written by Maurizio Piccoli. The review covers the electro-acoustic guitar featuring a solid Sitka spruce top, Lyrachord mid-depth bowl body, X-bracing pattern, five-piece mahogany-maple laminate neck with carbon fiber stabilizers, rosewood fingerboard, Ovation OP-Pro preamp with gain, three-band EQ, Shape pre-EQ circuit, and chromatic tuner. Detailed specifications include 640mm scale length, Tusq nut at 42.9mm width, 17/22 frets, and piezo pickup system. Retail price 1,429.50 euros including VAT, distributed in Italy by Mogar Music, Lainate (MI). Positive review praising build quality, acoustic performance, and the OP-Pro preamp. Many thanks to Riccardo Bucci from Italia for this nice document.
Year: 1985
This 1985 Ovation Instruments advertisement is the third in a series of technical updates for guitarists, focusing on the unique Roundback Bowl design. It explains how Ovation engineers in the mid-1960s returned to the rounded back shape for superior tone projection, using a light and strong Lyrachord molded body. The ad features the Acoustic Electric Elite (1537-4) and diagrams illustrating the deep, shallow, and super shallow bowl configurations, along with structural details of the heel block design.
Year: 2010
Many thanks to Patrick from USA for the very nice pictures of that beautiful guitar!! It has the same specs as a standard 1537, like the walnut binding, deep bowl, and no cutaway, with the following customizations: Solid Figured Redwood top Inlaid Epaulettes Abalone binding Carved Ebony Bridge Upgraded FET electronics
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
Year: 1983
Many Thanks to Jeff Whitehead for these nice photos.
Year: 1982
Thanks to "Fugot" (OFC Member) for this nice pictures. This guitar seems to be a prototype of an Elite 1537 with a Super Shallow Bowl. It's one of the 2 models I've ever seen with a SSB and no Cutaway. This one is equiped with an Adamas II neck. Serial 101382-2 / XSWA-4 (Extra Shallow Wood Adamas / Natural) (10/13/1982)
Year: 1983
Many Thanks to Thierry Guillaumot from France for these gorgeous photos.
Year: 1984
Many Thanks to Kazuhiro Gamo from Japan for these very nice photos.
Year: 1983
Many Thanks to Mike Ward from USA for these gorgeous photos.
Year: 1984
Ovation Elite 1537-4 #302304. Many Thanks to Thierry Guillaumot from France for these very nice photos.
Year: 1983
Many Thanks to Mike Ward from USA for these gorgeous photos.
Year: 1984
Many Thanks to Phil from USA for these very nice photos. Ovation Elite 1547-GC Custom Built for Glen Cambell, I don't know anything about this nice guitar. From 08-13-1984
Year: 1984
Many Thanks to Bernd from Germany for these wonderful photos.
Year: 1975
Glen Campbell Bluebird 12 Strings Electric (Thanks to Ken for permission to use his photos) (1975-1982) Another true rarity!! This model is the 12-string "Bluebird" designed for and with Glen Campbell. Approximately 8 examples were produced for Glen between 1975 and 1982, and 6 of the 8 are 6-strings. The design is that of a "Viper," but unlike the latter, the top is made of aluminum covered with ureter. This innovation would later be used for the "UK II" model. Another distinctive feature is that the "Bluebird" is equipped with active electronics, like the "Breadwinner" guitars of the time. Under the pickguard on the back of the guitar are two control knobs: one to adjust the pickup volume and the other to adjust the effect. Specifications: (See photos at the bottom of the page) Viper 12 Series Model G.C Bluebird 12 Production years 1975 - 1982 Original list price ??? Color Blue/Beige Glitter Pickups 2 Humbuckers Viper or Preacher type Preamp Active electronics Controls Volume, Tone, 2 switches: pickup selector and phase inverter Mono output Top Aluminum covered with Urelite (like the UK II model) Neck 3-piece Maple and Mahogany Tuners Ovation/Schaller Gold Frets 24 Fingerboard Rosewood or Ebony Inlays 20 Diamonds Notes: Model made specifically with and for Glenn Campbell.
Year: 1968
Glen Campbell Signature Proto (Thanks to Ken for permission to use his photos) (1968) This guitar isn't Glen Campbell's first Ovation, but it was the first one made specifically for him. It's actually the prototype of the "Glen Campbell Signature" model that would be produced for over 30 years. Only 50 to 100 of these were produced in the very first series of G.C. Signature guitars. The difference from later models is the glossy (untextured) Lyrachord body and the "Deluxe" inscription on the headstock. This prototype is the only one to have the initials "G.C." inlaid at the 12th fret, a feature never found on any production model. It's also worth noting that this model is one of the very first to be produced with the famous "X" bracing. Specifications: (See photos at the bottom of the page) Series G.C Signature Model 1127 / 1627 Production years 1968 - 198? Original list price $365 Color Natural Pickups Piezo Preamp FET Controls Volume and Tone Mono Output Top AAA Spruce Neck 5 Piece Maple and Mahogany Tuners Gold Ovation Frets 22 Fingerboard Ebony Inlays 12 Diamonds + GC at the 12th Fret Notes:
Year: 1970
Glen Campbell Signature Classic (Thanks to Ken for permission to use his photos). This Ovation Classic model (Model 1123-4 E, Serial No. X010) features a prototype Barcus-Berry stereo pickup. The passive electronics system with a volume knob is mounted directly to the top and has a 5-pin XLR output on the back. The top is cedar, and the back is from an Artist model. Other features include a 19-fret neck and the "Glen Campbell" signature on the truss rod cover. Apparently, Glen didn't play this guitar much as he wasn't happy with the sound. Specifications: (See photos at the bottom of the page) Series G.C Signature Classic Model 1123-4 E Production Years Prototype List Price at the time Color Natural Pickups Barcus Berry Preamp Controls Volume Stereo Output Top Cedar Neck 5 Piece Maple and Mahogany Tuners ??? Frets 19 Fingerboard Ebony Fret Markers
Year: 2009
Many thanks to John Mitzel from USA the lucky owner of that beautiful guitar!! Custom Adamas Parlor that used an Ovation 93C neck. It has an Op-Pro Studio and sounds awesome!!
Year: 1970
Condor Ovation (Around 1970) First of all, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Joseph, a guitar collector and seller in the USA, who granted me permission to use the photos of this incredible guitar. This very rare and, to my knowledge, almost unique model was sold online for $1790. It is probably the first "synthesizer" guitar ever produced, even predating the Ludwig Phase II. This confirms that C. Kaman was always ahead of his time and constantly seeking innovation. Attached is a link to the superb guitars that Joseph is currently selling on oliviasvintage. Made based on a Hurricane "storm series" model, this guitar is equipped with a pickup mounted on a special bridge. This guitar was specifically designed to be equipped with this pickup, which is why the pickups are closer together than on a classic Hurricane, why it's called the "Condor," and why it's not an Ovation. The synthesizer is by Innovex, a division of Hammond.
Year: 1970
Ovation Thunderhead X-009 Custom made for Jerry Reed. Many Thanks to Wayne Reid from Canada for these so nice pictures. The guitar was built for Jerry when he was a semi-regular musical guest on the 1970 season of the "Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour television show". Prototype features include a mahogany (instead of maple) neck, prototype De'Armond single-coil pickups with a switching setup similar the Fender Telecaster both in placement and function. It also has a custom pickguard with a different shape and Jerry Reed" and "Ovation " inlaid into it. (1970)
1537-1 Elite Epaulet
1537-4 epaulet
