Chris Ffinch was one of the greats of Australian guitar making and certainly contributed enormously to Maton as we know it today.
Chris started at Maton "fresh off the boat" in 1966 and had a very successful career here until moving in in the mid-80s. During that time he had a major influence on Maton's designs, especially in the designs of the CW80 and BG808 models, both of which have a legacy that continues today. He left Maton to join the team at Soundworks where he worked as a repairer and custom maker.
Chris was one of the best repairers we've ever seen and brought his vast experience back to Maton when he rejoined us as repairer in the mid 2000s. He stayed with us until his retirement in 2015.Chris was all set to retire to his dream home in Marysville with his wife Jane, but the Black Saturday bush fires destroyed their home shortly after it was completed in 2009. Chris and Jane were lucky to escape with their lives. Many of their friends and neighbors did not. They eventually rebuilt and Chris spent the last years of his life enjoying the lifestyle and surrounds of Marysville.
Chris passed away after a short illness on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
Chris was a wonderful man and a supremely gifted craftsman. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He has certainly left his mark..