PALM BAY MODEL ARCHIVE
TEMPEST
FIXED BRIDGE
The Tempest was Palm Bay's first fixed-bridge model, combining stunning craftsmanship, exceptional sustain and effortless playability. A milestone in the Palm Bay range, it remains a favourite among players and collectors alike.
1993 • TIDALWAVE • BLACK
MODEL NOTES
ABOUT THIS MODEL
As Palm Bay's first fixed-bridge model, the Tempest brought a new level of simplicity, stability and sustain to the range. Retaining the stunning craftsmanship, striking aesthetics and exceptional playability the brand was known for, the Tempest quickly established itself as a favourite among players looking for a more traditional setup without sacrificing performance.
KNOWN DETAILS
SPECS
BODY
Mahogany - 55mm
TOP
Quilted maple
NECK
Maple neck with mahogany and Maple scarfed headstock
25.5" / 648mm Scale length
FINGERBOARD
Ebony with abalone ski slopes & palm bay tree (1st fret)
18 inch radius
PICKUPS
2 x Barracuda humbucker, 1 x Barracuda single
BRIDGE
fixed, string-through body configuration
TUNERS
Grover
CONTROLS
1 x volume, 1 x tone
5-way switch
VARIATIONS
NUT
Graphite, 43mm width
PHOTO EVIDENCE
GALLERY
THE COMMUNITY ARCHIVE
THE OWNERS
Behind every Palm Bay is a story. First gigs, years of searching, unexpected discoveries and instruments that became lifelong companions. These memories are just as important as the specifications and serial numbers. Together, they help tell the story of Palm Bay through the people who played them.
OWNER STORY #001
"I'd wanted a Palm Bay since seeing the adverts in guitar magazines as a teenager. After nearly two years of checking Facebook Marketplace, eBay and Reverb every single day, a black Tidalwave finally appeared. It's now my number one guitar and the one I reach for more than any other."
— Simon, UK
1993 • Tidalwave • Black • Acquired 2024
OWNER'S GUITAR
BUILD THE ARCHIVE
REGISTER YOUR GUITAR
The Palm Bay Archive relies on contributions from owners around the world. By registering your guitar, you can help document serial numbers, finishes, specifications and the stories behind these remarkable instruments.
4
KNOWN TIDALWAVES
3
COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
1991–1997
YEARS DOCUMENTED
KEEP THE STORY ALIVE
JOIN THE ARCHIVE
Own a Palm Bay? Help preserve the history of one of Britain’s most distinctive guitar brands by sharing photographs, serial numbers and stories.
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