1937 National Duolian Resonator

A cool example of National’s pre-war craftsmanship, this 1937 Duolian captures everything players love about the early steel-body resonators: raw projection, unmistakable midrange bark, and a voice that sits perfectly between bluesy grit and metallic sweetness.

This instrument features its original steel body with the classic crystalline “frosted Duco” finish, now beautifully aged with patina, playwear, and oxidisation consistent with an 80+ year-old National. 

The sunburst finish neck joins the body at the 14th fret, and retains its original V profile which although big, feels comfortable and solid. The original tuners function well, the action is set up to cater to both fingerstyle and slide, making it an inspiring guitar for blues, folk, and period-correct roots music. It has been refretted, as you would expect for 80 years old and has a new nut.

The biscuit bridge resonator cone delivers that unmistakable Duolian punch: dry, loud, punchy and very responsive. Despite its age, the guitar plays cleanly and feels lively, with no structural issues.

A superb opportunity to own a genuine pre-war National, full of character, originality, and the timeless sound that shaped early American music.