Sawyer Thomson · Expert & Bowmaker · Seoul
A bow is judged in the hand, not on paper.
Every bow that passes through this atelier —
sourced, certified, or made — is held to a single standard:
would a great artist choose it?
A former cellist, Sawyer Thomson was drawn to the physical beauty and unmatched sound of fine instruments and bows from an early age. Since founding Thomson Violins Ltd. in 2017, he has built a reputation for collecting and sourcing bows of the highest quality.
Top soloists, orchestral musicians, teachers, and collectors call upon him for his keen eye and unwavering commitment to quality.
Drawing on a photographic memory and years of close study of the great French, English, and German schools, Sawyer identifies and certifies fine bows — and is regarded as the leading bow expert of his generation.
Certificates of authenticity are issued from the Seoul atelier and are recognized by musicians, dealers, and collectors worldwide.
In 2021, Sawyer learned bow making in the French tradition from the award-winning maker Gary Leahy — and immediately gained recognition for the remarkable playability of his very first bow.
He is a unique figure in the world of bows: the only maker who came to the craft with an established background as a musician, collector, dealer, and expert. Every bow he makes draws on that comprehensive knowledge.












Consultations, certification, and bow trials are available
at Thomson & Choi in Seoul — appointments recommended.
Thomson & Choi
106 Myeongdal-ro, Seocho District
Seoul, South Korea
서울특별시 서초구 명달로 106