Legendary makers crafting state guitar

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - The state commissioned a world-famous Albuquerque company to come up with a guitar that's unmistakably New Mexican.

Lorenzo Pimentel's hands show the hard work and love he has put into his guitars over the years.

In 1951 he started his company specializing in one-of-a-kind hand-made guitars.

“My goal was to make the best guitar in the world," Pimentel, 81, said. "Still is.”

But now he has help in that goal. Most of his 12 children work at the company in Albuquerque.

Robert, Rick, Agustin, Victor and Gustavo are all by their father's side daily crafting custom guitars of their own.

For the past year and a half Rick has been working on something special, the state guitar of New Mexico. It's something his father is proud to show off.

“Every one of these little things are graphed by hand.” Lorenzo said.

The guitar is authentic New Mexican.

“The Zia suns right here on the fingerboard," he said.

A Yucca, roadrunner and, of course, red and green chilies mark the guitar.

The outlined mother of pearl instrument is unique and valued at over $8,000. However Lorenzo said the love and care put into the music machine is invaluable, something his family is honored to give.

Pimentel also is glad to come to the shop every day where he sees his sons working and hears music being played.

“It's my joy and my pride," he said.

The guitar will officially be unveiled Saturday at 6 p.m. at six at the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque.