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FENDER | VINTAGE ADVERTISEMENTS

Fender advertisement (1979)

Fender Introduces Two Dynamite Guitars

Fender Lead I, Fender Lead II

Launch advertizing for the Lead 1 and lead 2 guitars, featuring Steve Morse of the Dixie Dregs

New Fenders blow out any other guitar on the market. The Lead I arms you with a more highly explosive humbucking sound than anything around. The Lead II brings that legendary Fender sound to a white heat. All this is the result of super hot-rodded pickups, totally new circuitry and switching capabilities that open up an unduplicated range of sounds. Full-scale Fenders. On each guitar, we've coupled a full-scale 25 1/2 inch neck to a heavier ash body for perfect feel and balance. Not that we set out to add weight to these guitars - but because increased mass and density are the logical coefficients of Lead I's and Lead II's functions.

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    Fender advertisement (1979) Fender Introduces Two Dynamite Guitars

    Fender Lead I, Fender Lead II

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    FOR REPAIR Seymour Duncan Vintage Stack Lead Tele PICKUP for Fender Telecaster!

    FOR REPAIR Seymour Duncan Vintage Stack Lead Tele PICKUP for Fender Telecaster!

    Exeter, New Hampshire, 038**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $55

    Seymour Duncan STK-T3b Vintage Stack Lead Tele PICKUP for Fender Telecaster
    Note: For Repair
    ... more
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    1980 Fender Lead II Guitar Manual #016495 Collectors Item RARE

    1980 Fender Lead II Guitar Manual #016495 Collector's Item RARE

    Blacksburg, Virginia, 240**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $139

    This is a rare and highly sought-after item for collectors and music enthusiasts alike. The 1980 Fender Lead II Guitar Manual #016495 is a vintage gem that provides a glimpse into the past and allows you to experience the magic of classic guitar designs. Made in the United States, this guitar manual is a true testament to the quality and expertise of Fender's craftsmanship. With its unique features and specifications, this manual is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of vintage charm ... more
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    1980 Fender Lead II Vintage USA Fender w gigbag

    1980 Fender Lead II Vintage USA Fender w gigbag

    Saint Louis, Missouri, 631**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $825

    Dated the guitar by using this reference . https: / / www guitarinsite nl / serienummers-fendereng phpWikipedia info https: / / en wikipedia org / wiki / FenderLeadSeries
    EDIT 10 / 25 / 94 I am NOT INCLUDING the case pictured. It will come with a gigbag and I have reduced the price of the guitar.
    Very cool Vintage Fender Lead II from the Rivera Fender Era. Not quite a strat, not quite a Tele. not a Mustang. The guitar plays wonderfully, and has a more modern Rock and Roll bite to ... more
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    1980 Fender Lead II Electric Guitar - Crimson Red Trans

    1980 Fender Lead II Electric Guitar - Crimson Red Trans

    Springfield, Tennessee, 371**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1075

    1980 Fender Lead II Guitar in Fender??s Fullerton Transparent Red Finish.

    The Fender Lead series of Guitars were one of the final innovations of the CBS-era Fender, built at the Iconic Fullerton Factory between 1980 and 1982
    This Lead II is in Very Good condition. It has a few very minor bumps and scuffs on the body, but they are all very nominal. There are some small finish dings on the neck, but nothing affecting playability, and they are all simply cosmetic. I have tried to... more
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    1980 Fender Lead II Transparent Red with Original Hardshell Case and Manual

    1980 Fender Lead II Transparent Red with Original Hardshell Case and Manual

    El Cajon, California, 920**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1200

    1980 Fender Lead II
    The serial number is "E011569" which dates it to 1980. The neck has a 1980 date code, the pickups date to 1980 and the pots are from December 1979
    The body has the original transparent red finish which has some checking in several areas around the edges. Fender had a lot of problems with the finish on these and this one is one of the nicest ones I've had. There are some other small dings, scratches, and scuffs. Nothing out of the ordinary for a vintage guitar and no ... more
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    SUPER CLEAN 1980 Fender Lead II Electric Guitar, Transparent Wine!

    SUPER CLEAN 1980 Fender Lead II Electric Guitar, Transparent Wine!

    Granite Falls, Washington, 982**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1250

    This is a collector's dream guitar! Other than some minor fretboard wear and fret wear on first 3 frets, this guitar looks very very carefully and lightly played. No scratches or dings anywhere other than light pick scratches on pickguard
    Finish is flawless transparent wine red. Neck is straight and action is set low measuring .070 at 15th fret. Weight is 7lbs 9oz. Comes with nice recent Fender branded padded gigbag
    Specs are:
    Manufactured Fall 1979 through 1982
    Vintage style ... more
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    1981 Fender Lead III 3-Tone Sunburst All Original w /  Original Case

    1981 Fender Lead III 3-Tone Sunburst All Original w / Original Case

    Springfield, Tennessee, 371**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1275

    1981 Fender Lead III Guitar in Fender??s Classic Fullerton 3-Tone Sunburst Finish. The Fender Lead series of Guitars were one of the final innovations of the CBS-era Fender, built at the Iconic Fullerton Factory between 1980 and 1982

    This Lead III is in Very Good condition. It has a few minor bumps and scrapes, the worst of which is along the lower bout. The blemish is not through to the wood, and could probably be minimized with a few minutes on a buffing wheel. I have tried to ... more
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    vintage USA fender lead 3 mint 1981 UN PLAYED

    vintage USA fender lead 3 mint 1981 UN PLAYED

    Appleton, Wisconsin, 549**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1400

    This vintage Fender Lead III mint just perfect neck and body is a rare find for any guitar in this condition. USA fender 1981 . The solid construction and classic design make it a must-have for any collection. With its smooth finish and high-quality materials, this guitar is sure to impress The brand, series, and body type are all Fender, vintage, and solid respectively. This guitar is perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality, vintage musical instrument. Whether you're a collector or a ... more
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    Fender Lead II Electric Guitar 1980 Black w / Original Hard Case

    Fender Lead II Electric Guitar 1980 Black w / Original Hard Case

    Galesburg, Illinois, 614**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1499

    This 1980 Fender Lead II Electric Guitar is a classic instrument that captures the spirit of the late '70s and early '80s rock scene. Finished in sleek black, this guitar exudes a timeless appeal while its solid body construction ensures durability and resonance. The Lead II features a unique double-cutaway design that not only enhances playability but also provides easy access to the upper frets. Equipped with two single-coil pickups, this model delivers a bright and punchy tone, perfect for ... more
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    1981 Fender Lead III Sunburst Clean and All Original w /  Original Case

    1981 Fender Lead III Sunburst Clean and All Original w / Original Case

    New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1595

    Here's a super nice and clean 1981 Fender Lead III completely original with original case
    Neck is clean with very little wear to it. This soft V neck. It is nice and straight and plays with a real nice action and no fret buzz or issues
    Original Ash body is done is a beautiful Sunburst finish which is just stunning. Nice and bright and vibrant
    Equipped with two hambucking pickups and a variety of sounds with multiple coil taps
    Comes with nice and clean original case, too ... more
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    1980 Fender Lead II Electric Guitar Rare Vintage Original Case USA

    1980 Fender Lead II Electric Guitar Rare Vintage Original Case USA

    Honolulu, Hawaii, 968**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $2772

    1980 Fender Lead II
    Electric Guitar
    Made in USA
    Includes: Guitar and Case
    I purchased this guitar used from a local music store in 2007. The original owner at one point refinished the body to black. I had my luthier remove it and refinish the body with a thin clear nitrocellous finish. This shows the beautiful ash grain of the body. Some of the pickguard screws show signs of rust and some have been replaced. The original frets have been leveled and polished by my luthier and the ... more
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    Hondo Professional II 1979 (made In Japan fender Lead Copy)

    Hondo Professional II 1979 (made In Japan fender Lead Copy)

    London, SE15***, UNITED KINGDOM

    £175

    Reluctantly selling my Hondo professional II fender lead copy. Really great guitar with heaps of character! The single coils can be run out of phase to achieve a quacky mustang sound. Really nice playable neck. The guitar has seen some (maybe modifications?) in the past which have been reversed, some holes can be seen underneath the bridge but don??t impact playability. I changed the knobs myself. The pick guard is a little cracked around the jack input but again it doesn??t affect playability, ... more
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    1980 FENDER LEAD BODY - made in USA

    1980 FENDER LEAD BODY - made in USA

    COLOGNE, GERMANY

    €550

    1980 FENDER LEAD BODY - made in USA :
    * original black finish has the typical LAQUER FLACKING
    * NOT light
    ATTENTION! OVER 1000 more
    GUITARS-BASSES-AMPS-PARTS
    in our OTHER AUCTIONS !!!
    CHECK OUR SHOP OUT -------------->>>>>
    PLENTY of PARTS for SALE
    ... more
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    Fender Lead 2 Electric Guitar Made In USA 1980 - 1982 With Padded Gig Bag

    Fender Lead 2 Electric Guitar Made In USA 1980 - 1982 With Padded Gig Bag

    London, NW9***, UNITED KINGDOM

    £1150


    Fender Lead 2 Electric Guitar Made In USA 1980 - 1982 With Padded Gig Bag
    This guitar is second hand the guitar has many lacquer cracks around the body this is cosmetic and will not effect the sound of the guitar
    Please see all pictures as they are part of the listing description
    As you can see from the photos the machine heads have been changed and the screw holes do not match up
    Your guitar was made at the
    Fullerton Plant (Fender - CBS Era), USA
    in 1980 - ... more
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    1980 Fender Lead ll - in Black finish & hard shell case

    1980 Fender Lead ll - in Black finish & hard shell case

    London, SW6***, UNITED KINGDOM

    £1170

    NEW KINGS ROAD VINTAGE GUITAR EMPORIUM ARE DELIGHTED TO OFFER FOR SALE
    1980 FENDER LEAD ll - BLACK
    This Player Lead II is in pretty good original condition, a few chips and dings as can be seen, one ding in particular as can be seen from the pictures. Featuring dual-slanted single coil pickups, dual-toggle switches (one for pickup selection, one for phase-reverse), and of course that unique Lead double-cutaway shape.... more
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    Fender LEAD II electric guitar made in USA 1979-81

    Fender LEAD II electric guitar made in USA 1979-81

    Felixstowe, IP11***, UNITED KINGDOM

    £1200

    Fender LEAD II electric guitar made in USA 1979-81The condition is really good, with a bit of lacquer starting to flake on a few frets
    Fab guitar with overall condition being pretty nice and very playable The popularity of this was made with the 'phase' switch, which works when you have both pickups selected All genuine / original (except the strings, I fitted those last week :) and made in the US of A
    Serial number lookup says "Year: Jun 1979 - Dec 1981 - Location: Made in Fullerton, ... more
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    1981 Fender - Lead I - ID 3188

    1981 Fender - Lead I - ID 3188

    Emmering, 82***, GERMANY

    €1331


    Vintage Fender
    Zustand: Gut
    SerNr: E105596
    Gewicht: 3, 7 kg Versandklasse: Standard
    Koffer / Case: ja
    Vermittlungsverkauf: 15648
    Die Fender Lead wurde nur von 1979 bis 1982 in den USA gefertigt
    Die Spulen des Humbucker lassen sich seriell / parallel umschalten, oder je einzeln
    Der Humbucker ist "very hot" er hat 13K-Ohm
    Guter Zustand mit frischem Setup
    Swamp Ash Body
    Red See-thru Finish
    Maple Neck
    Rosewood Fretboard
    Nut Width: 40, 5 mm
    1 x ... more
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    1981 Fender - Lead III - ID 3949

    1981 Fender - Lead III - ID 3949

    Emmering, 82***, GERMANY

    €1331

    Refinished
    Zustand: Gut
    SerNr: E103665
    Gewicht: 4, 1 kg Versandklasse: Standard
    Koffer / Case: ja
    Sonstiges: Fender Gurt mit Security Locks
    Vermittlungsverkauf: 16235
    Fender Vintage CBS Ära Gitarre
    Refinished in Blaumetallic
    Zwei Humbucker mit diversen Schaltungsmöglichkeiten
    Guter Zustand mit frischem Setup und neuen Saiten
    Solid Body
    Blue Metallic Refin
    Maple Neck
    21 Bünde
    Nut Width 42, 4 mm
    Griffbrettbreite am 12. Bund: ca. 51, 7 ... more
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    Fender Lead I with Maple Fretboard 1979 - 1980 - Wine (restauriert)

    Fender Lead I with Maple Fretboard 1979 - 1980 - Wine (restauriert)

    Much, 53***, GERMANY

    €1860

    Fender Lead I:
    Baujahr wahrscheinlich 1979, siehe Mechaniken
    Fender verbaute ab 1980 geschlossene Mechaniken
    Komplett restauriert mit neuem Schlagbrett und gewarteten Mechaniken. Die Mechaniken gehen leicht und gleichmäßig
    Der Hals ist entlackt und rückseitig mit Öl behandelt, danach gewachst. Extrem angenehmes Spielgefühl
    Das Griffbrett ist halbmatt, die Kopfplatte glänzend lackiert
    Pickups:
    Hals: Wahrscheinlich Dimarzio. Etwas höhere... more
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    1984 Fender Lead 2 Naturally Aged Olympic White Ash Body Sustain Forever

    1984 Fender Lead 2 Naturally Aged Olympic White Ash Body Sustain Forever

    Pouce Coupe, British Columbia, V0C***, CANADA

    C $2500

    1984Fender Lead 2 HSHNaturalRelicOlympic white Bill Lawrence pickups sound like t tops slim neck graphteech saddles ash body rosewood fingerboard plays great 60s logo case
    ... more
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    Find more Fender Lead I, Fender Lead II at vintageguitarsforsale.co

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    1971 Selmer guitar catalogue

    1971 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1971 Selmer guitar catalogue showing the range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Gibson, Yamaha, Selmer, Hofner and Suzuki. 1960s Selmer had always placed Hofner at the front end of their catalogues, no doubt these were the better sellers - but into the 1970s Hofner were slipping somewhat and only appear at the tail end of this publication, pride of place going to Gibson, and to a lesser extent Yamaha. In fact this is the last Selmer catalogue to include the many Hofner hollow bodies (Committee, President, Senator etc) that had defined the companies output for so many years - to be replaced in the 1972 catalogue by generic solid body 'copies' of Gibson and Fender models. A number of new Gibson models are included for the first time: the SG-100 and SG-200 six string guitars and the SB-300 and SB-400 basses.

    1968 Selmer guitar catalogue

    1968 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1968/1969 Selmer guitar catalogue (printed July 1968), showing the entire range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Hofner, Gibson, Selmer and Giannini. Selmer were the exclusive United Kingdom distributors of Hofner and Gibson at the time, and this catalogue contains a total of 18 electric guitars, 7 bass guitars, 37 acoustics, and 2 Hawaiian guitars - all produced outside the UK and imported by Selmer, with UK prices included in guineas. This catalogue saw the (re-)introduction of the late sixties Gibson Les Paul Custom and Les Paul Standard (see page 69) and the short-lived Hofner Club 70. Other electric models include: HOFNER ELECTRICS: Committee, Verithin 66, Ambassador, President, Senator, Galaxie, HOFNER BASSES: Violin bass, Verithin bass, Senator bass, Professional bass GIBSON ELECTRICS: Barney Kessel, ES-330TD, ES-335TD, ES-345TD, ES-175D, ES-125CD, SG Standard, SG Junior, SG Special GIBSON BASSES: EB-0, EB-2, EB-3 - plus a LOT of acoustics branded Gibson, Hofner, Selmer and Giannini

    1961 Hofner Colorama I

    1961 Hofner Colorama IHofner Colorama was the name UK distributor Selmer gave to a series of solid and semi-solid guitars built by Hofner for distribution in the UK. The construction and specifications of the guitars varied over the period of production, but by 1961 it was a totally solid, double cutaway instrument, with a set neck, translucent cherry finish, six-in-a-row headstock, and Hofner Diamond logo pickups. Available as a single or dual pickup guitar, this sngle pickup version would have been sold in mainland Europe as the Hofner 161.

    1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)

    1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)Commodore was a brand applied to a series of guitars produced in Japan at the well-respected Matsumoku plant from the late 1960s to the mid 1970s - and sold primarily (perhaps exclusively?) in the United Kingdom. The models bearing the Commodore name were all guitars available from different distributors with different branding. Although there may have been some minor changes in appointments (specifically headstock branding) most had the same basic bodies, hardware and construction. Equivalent models to the Commodore N25 (and this is by no means an exhaustive list) include the Aria 5102T, Conrad 5102T(?), Electra 2221, Lyle 5102T, Ventura V-1001, Univox Coily - and most famously the Epiphone 5102T / Epiphone EA-250.

    1960 Hofner Colorama II

    1960 Hofner Colorama IIThe Hofner Colorama was the name given by Selmer to a series of solid (and semi-solid) body Hofner guitars distributed in the United Kingdom between 1958 and 1965. The Colorama name actually applied to some quite different guitars over the period, but in 1960 it was a very light, semi-solid, set necked guitar with one (Colorama I) or two (Colorama II, as seen here) Toaster pickups. Although an entry-level guitar, it was very well-built, and a fine playing guitar; certainly a step up (at least in terms of craftsmanship) from many of the Colorama guitars that would follow, and a good deal of the guitars available in Britain circa 1960.

    1971 Epiphone 1820 bass (ET-280)

    1971 Epiphone 1820 (ET-280) bassBy the end of the 1960s, a decision had been made to move Epiphone guitar production from the USA (at the Kalamazoo plant where Gibson guitars were made), to Matsumoto in Japan, creating a line of guitars and basses significantly less expensive than the USA-built models (actually less than half the price). The Matsumoku factory had been producing guitars for export for some time, but the 1820 bass (alongside a number of guitar models and the 5120 electric acoustic bass) were the first Epiphone models to be made there. These new Epiphones were based on existing Matsumoku guitars, sharing body shapes, and hardware, but the Epiphone line was somewhat upgraded, with inlaid logos and a 2x2 peghead configuration. Over the course of the 70s, the Japanese output improved dramatically, and in many ways these early 70s models are a low point for the brand. Having said this, there are a lot worse guitars out there, and as well as being historically important, the 1820 bass can certainly provide the goods when required.

    1981 Gibson Marauder

    1981 Gibson MarauderProduction of Bill Lawrence's Gibson Marauder began in 1974, with production peaking in 1978. But by 1980 the model was officially discontinued, though very small numbers slipped out as late as spring 1981. Over 7000 examples shipped between 1974 and 1979, and although no totals are available for 1980 and 1981, it is unlikely production reached three figures in either of these years. These final Marauders were all assembled at the Gibson Nashville plant, and had some nice features not available through the later years of production, such as a rosewood fretboard, and in this case, an opaque 'Devil Red' finish. It's a great looking and fine playing guitar!

    1971 'Pick Epiphone' Catalog

    1971 Pick Epiphone catalogWhen Epiphone production moved from Kalamazoo to the Matsumoku plant in Japan, a whole new range of electric, flattop and classic acoustic guitars was launched. Between late 1970 and 1972 the new models were launched and refined. This 'folder' catalog contains various inserts released over these years detailing four electric six-strings (ET-270, ET-275, ET-278, and thinline EA-250), three bass guitars (ET-280, ET-285, and thinline EA-260), three folk/steel acoustics, four jumbo flattop acoustics, two 12-string jumbos, four classic acoustics, and a banjo.

    1981 'Gibson Specials' Pre-Owners Manual

    1981 Gibson Specials Pre-Owners Manual'Gibson Specials' was part of the June 1981 pre-owners manual series, but unlike the other folders contained a mish-mash of different guitars: limited editions, test marketing and close outs. "You will find the unusual, the brand-new, and the bargain within this folder". End of line 70s guitars like the Marauder, S-1, and L-6S Custom mixed in with brand new models the The V, The Explorer and the Flying V Bass.
    It was the largest folder in the series, with 24 inserts, (19 guitars and 5 basses): Guitars: 335-S Standard, Melody Maker Double, Marauder, L-6S Custom, S-1, RD Artist, Firebird, Firebird II, Flying V, Flying V-II, The V, Explorer, Explorer II, The Explorer, The "SG" Standard, Les Paul Artist, Les Paul Artisan, ES-335 Heritage, ES-175/CC Basses: Grabber, G-3, L-9S, RD Artist Bass, Flying V Bass

    1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bass

    1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bassRose-Morris were selling Shaftesbury-branded Rickenbacker copy instruments from the late 1960s right through the 1970s. The 3263 bass was one of the first models, (alongside the 3261 six string and 3262 twelve string) available from late 1968 until about 1974. The earliest incarnation was a set neck bass, produced very briefly in Japan. But production quickly moved to Italy. This bolt-on neck example was built by Eko, in Recanati, using the same hardware and pickups as fitted to Eko, and Vox basses built around the same time. It's certainly a fine looking bass, and not a bad player either.

    1961 Hohner Zambesi

    1961 Hohner ZambesiThis very early, and pretty rare British-built guitar is branded Hohner London. Hohner were, of course, a German company, better known for their harmonicas and accordions, but they were keenly expanding into guitars at the birth of the 1960s. This model, along with the Hohner Amazon and (particularly) the Hohner Holborn, bear some similarity with Vox guitars of the same period; furniture manufacturer Stuart Darkins constructed bodies and necks for both brands, with Fenton Weill assembling them using their hardware and pickups. These guitars do have some hardware peculiarities, and they are not the most adjustable of instruments, but they actually play very nicely, being solidly built out of some very nice woods. Check out the video on this page.

    1963 Vox Super Ace

    1963 Vox Super AceThe Vox Super Ace was a mid-priced British solid body electric guitar, produced by JMI at their factory in Dartford, Kent. It was broadly modelled on the Fender Stratocaster, and a sibling model to the dual-pickup Vox Ace. Both the Ace, and Super Ace (along with several other models), were redesigned in 1963 with a new body shape, headstock style, and pickup layout - only increasing the resemblance to the aforementioned Fender. The Super Ace had a 1963 price tag of £47 5S. It's a pretty nice playing guitar with some lovely sounds - check out the videos on this page, and in the Vintage Guitar and Bass supporting members area

    1966 Vox New Escort

    1966 Vox New EscortThe Vox New Escort was Vox's version of the Fender Telecaster, at a time when American guitars were out of reach for most British musicians. It was made by JMI in England, for the British market, and unlike the majority of other models, didn't have an Italian-made equivalent. But the New Escort wasn't a slavish Fender copy, adding Vox's stylish teardrop headstock to the tele-style body, with a stop tailpiece and two Vox V2 single coil pickups. And it's a pretty substantial, and nice playing guitar, with a very comfortable neck. Check out the images, specifications, and watch a video of it in action. There is also extra content in the vintageguitarandbass supporting members area.

    1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin' Care

    1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin CareCatalog scan. The 1969 Fender Lovin' Care catalog consisted of 48 pages of electric guitars, basses, amplifiers, steel guitars, acoustic guitars, banjos and keyboards. Like the previous catalog, this featured the company's guitars in a variety of interesting settings around California, from the Whiskey-A-Go-Go, to the Hollywood Bowl. Several instruments were making their first appearance amongst it's pages: the Telecaster bass, Montego and LTD jazz guitars, and the Redondo acoustic. It was the final catalog appearance, however, of the Electric XII, Bass V, Duo-Sonic, Coronado I and Coronado Bass I.

    1973 Eko Ranger Folk

    1973 Eko Ranger FolkThe Eko Ranger series of guitars was incredibly popular in the second half of the 1960s and through the 1970s, selling in very large numbers. The Ranger Folk was 1 1/4" smaller, and 1" shallower than the Ranger VI and XII - and with a narrower waist. Not a bad guitar; a little quiet, but pretty playable. These were great value in 1973, and because they sold so many, they are easy to find and excellent value today.

    1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitar

    1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitarThe Symphonic bass was built in the UK, by Vox parent company JMI. It was the Vox equivalent to the Fender Precision bass, and was one of the most expensive Vox guitars produced. It was actually a great playing bass, rather similar to the Precision in feel and sound, but was probably just too expensive compared to an actual Fender and consequently sold poorly. When Vox hit financial problems in 1968, unsold guitars and basses were passed on to Dallas Arbiter, who briefly sold the excess Symphonic bass stock as model 4537. This bass, although with a neck date of February 1966, was most likely one of the unsold Vox guitars sold on by Dallas Arbiter. Check out the bass, and the two video demos through 1960s Ampeg and WEM amplifiers.

    1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog

    1968 Shaftesbury catalogThe 1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog was just four pages long, and contained four guitar models: the six string Barney Kessel-style 3264; and three Rickenbacker-styled semi-acoustic models: the six-string 3261, the twelve string 3262 and the 3263 bass. Shaftesbury was the house-brand of major UK distributor Rose-Morris, and seems to have been launched as a response to the company's loss of it's distribution deal with Rickenbacker. The guitars were mid-priced, and built in (initially) Japan, and later Italy, by Eko

    1970 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns Celebrated Classics' catalog

    1970 Rose_Morris catalog1970 Rose-Morris catalog, dated April 1970. It featured 6 electric guitars, 32 acoustic guitars, 3 basses and 1 steel guitar. It contains the following instruments, over 20 pages: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3262, 3264, 3265, 3400; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Colorado, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12; Aria 1674, 1675, 1676, 1679, 1680, 1695, 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk; Rose-Morris 15-11, Kansas, Georgian, Florida; Suzuki 1663, 1664, 1665, 3054, 3055, 3060; Tatay 1713, 1714, 1715; Peerless 3052; Steel guitar: Aria 3425

    1971 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns' catalog

    1971 Rose_Morris catalogThe sixteen-page 1971 Rose-Morris catalog featured electric guitars by Rose-Morris' own brand, Shaftesbury, and budget brand Top Twenty; aswell as acoustics by Eko, Aria, and for the first time Ovation. The catalog contains the following instruments: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3264, 3265, 3400, 3402; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Ovation: Balladeer, 12 String, Glen Campbell, Glen Campbell 12 string; Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12, Colorado, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Studio 'L'; Rose-Morris Florida; Aria 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk

    1972 Fender Precision bass

    1972 Fender PrecisionA detailed look at an early 1970s Fender Precision bass guitar in custom black finish, with rosewood fretboard. 1972 list price, $307.50. The Fender Precision had been shipping since at least very early 1952 - with just one re-design circa 1957. This example, then, shows a model already two decades old, but barely changed since the '57 revamp. Fender got it right first time around, and although there are numerous minor cosmetic differences, the essence of this bass is effectively the same as it was in '52: a simple, single pickup instrument with a GREAT sound. Check out the demo video through an old Ampeg B15. It's no wonder this is the bass that everybody wants!

    1967 Vox Stroller

    1967 Vox StrollerThe Vox Stroller was the brand's entry level electric solid body guitar, fitted with just one pickup and a fixed tailpiece. Although aimed at student guitarists, it wasn't a terrible instrument, but did lack somewhat in adjustability, having no accessible truss rod and only a floating rosewood bridge. But this example is actually quite an improvement on earlier versions, with a standard 1/4" jack and a solid mahogany body. 1967 price £18 2s. JMI ceased UK guitar production in late '67, and combined with decreasing demand for the Stroller, this surely must be one of the last examples shipped.

    1963 Vox Clubman Bass (left handed)

    1963 Vox Clubman Bass left handedA nice example of the Vox Clubman II bass, built by JMI in Dartford, Kent in 1963. This is a lightweight bass, short (30") scale and very easy to play. It is an early example, and as such has a thin black scratchplate and side mounted, coaxial output jack. JMI offered left handed examples of their solid body Vox guitars and basses at 10% premium. Production numbers are unclear, but left-handed examples rarely come up for sale

    1977 Gibson ES Artist 'prototype'

    1977 Gibson ES Artist prototypeNot to be confused with the Gibson ES Artist launched by Gibson in 1979; this ES Artist was an early model designed by the Gibson research and development team in Kalamazoo in 1977, the instruments themselves constructed by Gibson artist Chuck Burge. It was planned for launch as a high end semi acoustic with 335-style construction (central maple block) and innovative circuitry - but was pulled at the last minute, being deemed too expensive. Apparently, several examples were produced with varying specifications, though exactly how many actually left the Kalamazoo plant is unclear. Certainly two guitars were sold to LaVonne Music by Gibson in around 1980. Read more about the development of this guitar, with details from Chuck Burge and the story of it's sale to LaVonne music

    1959 Hofner Committee

    1959 Hofner CommitteeThe Hofner Committee was a truly beautiful guitar produced in Germany, primarily for the UK market. It was a large bodied (initially 17 1/2") guitar with a carved spruce top, available as an acoustic or electric guitar. By the early sixties the carved top was replaced with a laminate, and although still a very fine guitar, the earlier carved top examples, with frondose headstock (like the example shown here) are far more highly prized amongst musicians and vintage guitar collectors.

    1965 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

    1965 Gretsch Chet Atkins TennesseanThe Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, or model 6119 was Gretsch's best selling hollow body of the 1960s. This wonderfully faded example from 1965 was originally Dark Cherry Red, but has turned a mid-orange brown. The original color, however, can be seen underneath the pickup surrounds. 1965 specs: maple body, two-piece neck, Brazilian rosewood fretboard and Hi-Lo 'Tron single coil pickups. Nickel plated Gretsch Bigsby tailpiece.

    1965 Gretsch 'For the Spectacular Sound of the Times' guitar and amp catalog

    1965 Gretsch catalogThe 1965 Gretsch catalog, or catalog #32, featured 10 hollow body electric guitars, including the newly launched Gretsch Viking; four solid body electrics, including the Astro Jet - making it's only catalog appearance; just one bass, the single pickup PX6070; nine acoustics and 12 tube amplifiers. Pride of place went to the Chet Atkins Country Gentleman that adorned both the front and back covers. 24 pages, six of which are in full color.

    Guitar Repair: fixing fret buzz and sharp fret ends

    Guitar Repair: fixing fret buzz and sharp fret endsLoose frets are especially problematic in certain old guitars, but are generally very easy to fix. You'll be amazed at the difference you can make with just a few tools, a bit of knowledge, and a little time. Fixing loose frets can eliminate fret buzz, remove sharp fret ends, and greatly improve the tone of any guitar. If your luthier bill will be greater than the value of your guitar, definitely time to have a go yourself!

    1966 Hagstrom 'worlds fastest playing neck' catalog (Merson USA)

    1966 Hagstrom guitar catalogHagstrom guitars were distributed in the mid-1960s United States by Merson of USA. This eight page 'worlds fastest playing neck' catalog, printed in two-colors contained six solid body electrics, three solid body basses, two electric acoustic guitars, two electric acoustic basses and five acoustics.

    1965 Hofner President

    1965 Hofner PresidentThe President was produced by Hofner in Bubenreuth, Germany, specifically for Selmer, who distributed the brand in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and other commonwealth nations. The President was a hollow body electric acoustic, available as a full body or thinline, and with blonde or brunette finish. It was a great playing guitar that sold fairly well in the second half of the 1950s, throughout the 1960s, and into the very early 1970s. The example shown here is a full-body depth guitar in blonde - and as a 1965 guitar, one of the last to feature the rounded Venetian cutaway. From late 1965 until 1972, the President sported a sharp Florentine cut. Naturally, such an electric acoustic suggests jazz and blues, but many of the original British Hofner President players were part of the rock 'n roll, skiffle and beat scenes of the late 50s and early 60s.

    1963 1964 Fender catalog

    Fender 1963 catalogue"The Choice of Professional and Student Musicians Everywhere" This eight page catalogue was included as an insert in the 1963 annual "school music" issue of Downbeat magazine (September 1963). As well as keyboards and pedal steels, this catalog contains seven guitars, three basses and ten amplifiers - from student guitars such as the Musicmaster and Duotone to professional models like the new Jaguar.