CARL REBORN #3132
Inspired by the story.
An independent tribute project by Augustin-Cristian Apostol, created with deep respect for the original CARL guitar, its story, and the artists who brought it to life.
The Original Story
CARL would not exist without the work of Petar Milivojevic. Through his talent as a visual artist, the visual concept created for the inlay and coins, and his deep understanding of the Metallica universe, Petar gave life to the Carl project in a way that impressed me deeply.
Alongside him, the original instrument carries the mark of exceptional craftsmen: Kenneth Lawrence, who built the guitar, Larry Robinson, the master inlay artist behind the original fingerboard work, and Shaun Hughes, the engraver who created the skull coins.
For those unfamiliar with the story, Carl was built for James Hetfield from a deeply personal idea, transformed into an instrument where every detail carries meaning. It is not only a striking guitar, but a work where design, inlay, coins, and visual symbols come together to tell a story.
When a work like this stands before you, shaped by people of that caliber, you immediately understand how high the standard is. That is why, for me, CARL REBORN #3132 was never just another guitar built in the workshop.
It became a personal challenge.
The Reborn Interpretation
CARL REBORN #3132 is not a copy of the original. It is my way of showing respect for this story and for the people who made it possible.
Metallica played an important role in my path as a luthier. Many of James Hetfield’s instruments inspired me over the years, but with this project, it was never only about the shape of the guitar. It was about the story, the details, and the respect for the work behind the original.
At the same time, it became one of the greatest challenges I have ever taken on as a luthier.
Craft Details
For my interpretation, the fingerboard was made from ebony, with inlays built from more than ten different types of shell and reconstituted stone.
These materials were chosen for the way they react to light, allowing the details across the fingerboard to reveal different reflections and depth depending on the viewing angle.
The side markers are not simple glow-in-the-dark dots. They are fiber optic markers, illuminated by a hidden LED system, designed to remain discreet until the detail becomes visible in low light.
Specifications
BodyGenuine Mahogany
NeckGenuine Mahogany
TopResonant Spruce
FingerboardGaboon Ebony with blind binding
InlaysNatural shells and reconstituted stones
Scale Length24.75"
Radius16"
Frets22 Jescar stainless steel jumbo frets
Truss RodDouble action with carbon reinforcement bars
NutBone
TunersSperzel locking tuners
PickupsEMG JH Set
BridgeKluson
Stop TailpieceGotoh
Side DotsGreen LED fiber optic and MOP markers
StringsErnie Ball RPS 10-46
WiringVolume / Volume
SwitchSwitchcraft 3-way toggle
FinishWax oil finish
Weight8.6 lbs
Credits & Disclaimer
Credits for the original CARL project
Visual concept, inlay design, coin design and visual story behind Carl: Petar Milivojevic
Original guitar built by: Kenneth Lawrence
Fretboard inlay work: Larry Robinson
Skull coin engravings: Shaun Hughes
Original instrument created for: James Hetfield
Disclaimer
CARL REBORN #3132 is an independent tribute project created by Augustin-Cristian Apostol / Antonio Guitars.
It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or authorized by Metallica, James Hetfield, Kenneth Lawrence, Petar Milivojevic, Larry Robinson, Shaun Hughes, or any related entities, trademarks, or rights holders.
All names are mentioned only for credit, context, and historical reference to the original CARL project.