Custom Orders
A custom Iulius guitar begins with an acoustic definition.
Before construction starts, the instrument is specified as a complete acoustic entity. Musical context, physical constraints, and intended acoustic behaviour are defined so the build proceeds with direction rather than correction.
The instrument is then built according to this definition and refined after assembly through measurement, calibration, and setup.
Reservation & Definition
A custom order starts with a formal commitment.
A 10% non-refundable acompte reserves a place in the build queue and initiates the design phase. The acompte represents a firm commitment to the commission by both the customer and Iulius Guitars.
This first stage is dedicated to defining the instrument. Through a focused exchange—typically an initial call followed by written follow-ups—the main parameters are established and fixed before construction begins.
This includes the intended acoustic behaviour, ergonomic requirements, and structural constraints.
Once the definition is validated, the project enters the build queue.
Build phase
Construction begins when the project enters its active build slot.
All structural and material choices are executed according to the previously defined parameters. During this phase, no changes affecting the acoustic definition are introduced.
Throughout this phase, you will receive regular photo updates. Key stages of the build are shared and discussed as they happen, allowing you to follow the evolution of the instrument as it takes shape.
Verification, Calibration & Setup
Because a guitar exists acoustically only once it is complete, verification takes place after assembly.
At this stage, the instrument is measured, evaluated, and refined through tuning and setup to confirm coherence with the initial acoustic definition.
This process is an integral part of the work, not an optional adjustment.
Customization
Is offered within defined limits to preserve coherence, reliability, and long-term stability.
Adaptable parameters include:
- tonewood selection from curated, acoustically graded stock
- finish, colour, and burst options
- bindings and inlays
- neck profile and nut dimensions
Not offered:
- endangered or customer-supplied woods
- unrestricted structural modifications
- features that compromise acoustic balance
All standard Iulius design elements — including ETS and cantilevered neck
architecture — are included by default.
Sustainability
Iulius Guitars uses responsibly sourced tonewoods selected on acoustic and structural criteria.
Materials are individually graded and measured to ensure suitability, consistency, and long-term reliability.
Soundboards are typically French or Italian spruce, naturally aged or torrefied.
European tonewoods such as walnut, ash, maple, and eucalyptus are used extensively, alongside limited FSC-certified tropical species.
Endangered species and materials from uncertain sources are not used.
Payment Terms
The total price for a custom Iulius guitar is €18,200, regardless of the model.
VAT is not applicable under the French franchise en base de TVA regime (Article 293 B of the French General Tax Code).
Payment is structured as follows:
- 10% acompte at order confirmation — non-refundable
- 40% payment at the start of construction
- 50% balance upon completion, prior to delivery
The initial payment is an acompte and represents a firm commitment to the commission by both the customer and Iulius Guitars. It is non-refundable in the event of cancellation by the customer, subject to applicable consumer law.
All payments are due within the timeframes specified on the corresponding invoices.
Build Time
Typical delivery is 6 to 8 months from the start of manual work.
This is an estimated timeframe rather than a guaranteed delivery date. Building and calibrating an individual instrument requires sufficient time for material acclimation, construction, finishing, stabilization, and final adjustment. If circumstances result in a significant change to the expected delivery time, the customer will be informed.
Delivery
Delivery is arranged once the final balance has been received.
Shipping and insurance are calculated separately according to destination. Any applicable import duties, customs charges, local taxes, or similar costs in the destination country are the responsibility of the customer.
Satisfaction & Returns
Each custom Iulius guitar is individually made according to specifications agreed with the customer and is therefore not normally subject to the statutory right of withdrawal applicable to standard distance purchases.
However, Iulius Guitars offers a 7-day satisfaction period. If, after receiving the instrument, you feel that it is not right for you, you may notify me in writing within 7 calendar days of delivery and return the guitar in its original condition.
The instrument will then be offered for resale. Once it has been sold and payment from the new buyer has been received, 80% of the original instrument price will be refunded.
Return shipping, insurance, customs charges, and related costs are the responsibility of the customer.
Full conditions are detailed in the Iulius Guitars Terms and Conditions of Sale.
Warranty
Each new Iulius guitar is covered by a 5-year Iulius Guitars commercial warranty for the original owner, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
The warranty does not cover:
- normal wear and tear
- damage resulting from misuse, accident, neglect, or improper storage
- issues related to humidity, temperature extremes, or lack of proper care
- modifications or repairs performed by third parties without prior approval
- routine maintenance, setup adjustments, and string replacement
Warranty service is provided through the Iulius workshop. Shipping and insurance costs related to warranty service are the responsibility of the owner.
The Iulius Guitars commercial warranty is provided in addition to the statutory legal guarantees applicable to consumers and does not limit or replace those rights.
Terms of Commission
All custom orders are subject to the Iulius Guitars Terms and Conditions of Sale, which define the complete conditions relating to order confirmation, payment, customization, cancellation, delivery, legal guarantees, commercial warranty, complaints, and consumer mediation.
The Terms and Conditions are provided to the customer before the commission is confirmed.
Requesting a Commission
If this framework aligns with your expectations, you may submit a request using the form below.
I personally review all inquiries and respond directly. Not all requests are accepted.