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GIBSON | SOLID BODY | SG

Gibson SG

Solid body electric guitar

1969 SG Special

The Gibson SG is a true design classic that has stood the test of time, remaining popular for over half a century. Numerous incarnations have been available, all with the double cutaway 'batwing' body style in common. SG, of course, stands for 'Solid Guitar', as the SG evolved from the first Gibson solid, the Les Paul. In fact the earliest Gibson SGs were actually sold as Les Pauls, despite the new body design, and simplified mahogany-only construction. The list of SG players is a who's who of the guitar. Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Pete Townsend, Carlos Santana, Angus Young. And so on.

1961 Gibson SG announcement
1961 announcement of the Gibson SG range of guitars

The SG Custom and the SG Standard were available first, debuting in early 1961. The high end Custom had gold plated hardware, 3 pickups and pearl inlays throughout. A very fine guitar. Both models sold well. A letter to Gibson dealers from late June 1961 explains "The New Model Les Paul Custom ... AND the New Les Paul Regular ... are enjoying tremendous acceptance. Sales of both models have already passed last year's entire output."

This sauces lead naturally to the addition of more models to the range: SG Junior, SG TV, SG Special, ranging in price from low to high. Even the Melody Maker was redesigned from it's popular body style to the SG shape. The number of SG models available fluctuated, reaching a peak in the early 1970s when there were also the SG Deluxe, and entry level models SGI, SGII, SGIII, SG100, SG200 and SG250.

The SG is a Gibson staple, and hasn't changed significantly in nearly four decades. But of course there have been changes in hardware, neck profile, construction methods and so on - common to all Gibson instruments made in a factory always trying to improve upon its designs whilst remaining profitable over the long term. Models came and went. Have a look at the Gibson SG 1960s timeline and the SG 1970s timeline for some examples of these variations.

Different Gibson SG models

1965 Gibson SG Custom Image Heritage auctions

The SG Custom was the finest model in the SG line, with gold plated hardware and three humbucking PAF pickups. It was offered (initially) in white only, though later Cherry and Walnut. See more about the SG Custom here.

Or have a closer look at these SGs

Original Gibson SG advertising

Print advertisements for some of the various incarnations of the Gibson SG, 1961-1980

Electric guitar advertisements originally published from 1961 onwards. Click on the images for larger copies. Check out other vintage Gibson advertisements

Gibson SG custom - Solid Hit

Gibson SG custom - Solid Hit (1961)
The first advertisement for a true icon in the world of guitars; the Gibson SG (although still known as the Les Paul at this time). The advertisement features Les Paul and his then wife Mary Ford, ...
[more]

Gibson SG standard - Gibson lets you feel what you play - so you can play what you feel

Gibson SG standard - Gibson lets you feel what you play - so you can play what you feel (1972)
Your guitar has to have feeling too. Gibson SG Solid Bodies have a consistent and comfortable freedom across the fretboard that lets you add your own personal touch to each note. Going from one e...
[more]

Gibson SG standard - Already Standards, Always Special

Gibson SG standard - Already Standards, Always Special (1973)
Full page early seventies advert for two Gibson solid body guitars: the redesigned Gibson SG Standard (below, Cherry finish, Bigsby vibrato) and SG Special (above, Walnut finish).
[more]

Gibson SG standard - The Moment of Truth

Gibson SG standard - The Moment of Truth (1973)
The truth is, most rock recording artists play Gibson's "SG" solid body guitars. And they play them when it really counts... at the crucial moment when they have to put their reputations on record....
[more]

Gibson The SG - An SG. For Half A G

Gibson The SG - An SG. For Half A G (1979)
Here's a great old guitar tradition for a grand old price. Actually, half a grand. $499.50 to be exact. "The SG" guitar by Gibson.
Gibson SG guitars have been playing sellout concerts and hit ...
[more]

Gibson The SG - Gibson Guitars. To the Tune of $399 and Up

Gibson The SG - Gibson Guitars. To the Tune of $399 and Up (1979)
Gibson electric guitars begin with the Marauder at $399. And it begins where most of its competitors leave off—with high power electronics, a full range pan pickup potentiometer and the same...
[more]

Gibson The SG - The Firebrands. Hot New Brands at a Price that Doesn

Gibson The SG - The Firebrands. Hot New Brands at a Price that Doesn't Burn. (1980)
Advert for two new versions of two established Gibson models: "The SG" Deluxe and "The Paul" Deluxe. In 1980 Gibson decided on a new branding concept for its instruments; there would be three serie...
[more]

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vintage 1967 GIBSON SG Melody Maker guitar Pelham Blue finish gorgeous relicing

vintage 1967 GIBSON SG Melody Maker guitar Pelham Blue finish gorgeous relicing

New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$34

1967 GIBSON Melody Maker guitar . . . . . . This awesome vintage Gibson SG-style Melody Maker guitar was manufactured in Kalamazoo back in 1967. Double pickup version with vibrato. Great playing and sounding guitar, and looks amazing with its original Pelham Blue finish. As so many do, the color on this one has faded / yellowed to a greenish / gray shade that is quite nice, and I really love the way the edges shade from green to blue. A well loved and well played instrument with lots of ... more
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Gibson 1967 SG Melody Maker

Gibson 1967 SG Melody Maker

Washington, Pennsylvania, 153**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2500

Gibson 1967 SG Melody Maker. Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.... more
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1971 Gibson SG Flameburst Electric Guitar in case

1971 Gibson SG Flameburst Electric Guitar in case

Waldport, Oregon, 973**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2700

Selling some of my personal guitars. This is a nice one.... more
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Vintage 1960s Gibson Witchhat Knob Set Witch Hat SG Standard ES-335 ES175 1968

Vintage 1960's Gibson Witchhat Knob Set Witch Hat SG Standard ES-335 ES175 1968

Chicago, Illinois, 606**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$245

Vintage Correct Parts is proud to offer, for your consideration,
A completely original and fantastic
Vintage Gibson 1967 - 1979 "Witchhat" knob set(Silver Inserts)
Rare and correct for that awesome 1966-1969 Gibson! This is an awesome matched set in super nice shape. Please note - the font on the "VOL" knobs is slightly different on the inserts. The number font is the same and this set is matched from the same guitar - thank you!
No damage, No cracks, no splits
Correct ... more
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Vintage Gibson 1965 Chrome Patent Sticker PAF pickup cover set 1966 68 ES-335 SG

Vintage Gibson 1965 Chrome Patent Sticker PAF pickup cover set 1966 68 ES-335 SG

Chicago, Illinois, 606**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$295

Vintage Correct Parts is proud to offer, for your consideration,
A fantastic and original
Vintage c 1965 Chrome Patent Number PAF humbucker cover set
REAL DEAL AND IN AMAZING SHAPE
Killer 50+ year old patina!
This is a standard spaced cover set - amazing shape with a killer vintage patina
These are correct for your 1965 thru 1969 ES-335, SG Standard, ES-175 and many others!
Get it back to stock, get it VINTAGE CORRECT
WE SHIP WORLDWIDE... more
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Original 1961-62 GIBSON Les Paul SG Junior ES-125 POTS Wire Harness Complete

Original 1961-62 GIBSON Les Paul SG Junior ES-125 POTS Wire Harness Complete

Rolling Meadows, Illinois, 600**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$745

Original 1961-62 GIBSON Les Paul SG Junior ES-125 POTS Wire Harness Complete. Dated 2nd week of 1962, unmolested harness from a SG Junior, nuts / washers / pointers included
... more
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1971 GIBSON SG SPECIAL BODY - made in USA

1971 GIBSON SG SPECIAL BODY - made in USA

COLOGNE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$334

1971 GIBSON SG SPECIAL BODY - made in USA :
* body ONLY
* has a crack on back=check last 2 pics
* could be rebuilt by a SKILLED LUTHIER as a 1 pickup model... more
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1964 Gibson SG Junior ridiculous figured Mahogany w / a stop tail & 1 11 / 16" nut !

1964 Gibson SG Junior ridiculous figured Mahogany w / a stop tail & 1 11 / 16" nut !

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$8495

This is a very cool last of the early 60??s type SG Junior in a nice all original see-thru Cherry finish over a 1 of a kind super figured Mahogany body like no other. Its dot inlaid rosewood fingerboard feels great & its 1 11 / 16?? 1 piece mahogany neck profile is very wide & comfortable. Its headstock has Gibson??s famous gold logo w / a set of 3-in-line single line Kluson tuners. It??s loaded w / a single black P-90 that frickin screams. Its Small pickgard is the last of its type ... more
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Vintage 1961 Gibson Les Paul Standard SG Cherry Red Electric Guitar w /  OHSC

Vintage 1961 Gibson Les Paul Standard SG Cherry Red Electric Guitar w / OHSC

Hicksville, New York, 118**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$30000

Rock and Roll Discounts that'll make your jaw hit the floor, with 24% off in 2024!!!
Vintage 1961 Gibson Les Paul Standard SG Cherry Red Electric Guitar w / Original Case PAFs Sideways Vibrola
Hey now! You're looking at one of the most iconic guitars ever made This is a vintage 1961 Gibson Les Paul Standard SG electric guitar, in Cherry Red It weighs 6 lbs 11 oz, 24 75" scale, 1 67" nutA very well kept example - original case, and PAFs This is the legendary guitar that so many guitar ... more
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1969 Gibson SG Custom Vintage Guitar Walnut, 100% Original w /  Pat # T-Tops, Case

1969 Gibson SG Custom Vintage Guitar Walnut, 100% Original w / Pat # T-Tops, Case

Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$17500

Up for sale, a 1969 Gibson SG Custom in exceptional, 100% original condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original hardshell case. This extremely well-kept SG features a gloss Walnut nitro lacquer finish, the original trio of Pat # T Top humbuckers, and a long frame Maestro Vibrola. This particular instrument comes from the personal collection of Slipknot??s Jim Root, aka #4
The tonewood complement comprises solid mahogany neck and body construction, offering a rich ... more
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1973 Gibson SG Standard Cherry Electric Guitar w /  Bigsby & Case

1973 Gibson SG Standard Cherry Electric Guitar w / Bigsby & Case

East Syracuse, New York, 130**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3250

This 1973 Gibson SG Standard Cherry Electric Guitar is a dream come true for any guitar enthusiast. With a solid body made of mahogany and a beautiful red color, this guitar is sure to make any musician stand out. It has 22 frets on an ebony fretboard and a 6-string configuration, making it perfect for any type of music This guitar is right-handed and comes with a Bigsby vibrato and a case. It is a professional performance level instrument and is perfect for anyone who wants to take their music ... more
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1967 Gibson Full Line Retail Price List Les Paul SG Trini Lopez J-50 ORIGINAL

1967 Gibson Full Line Retail Price List Les Paul SG Trini Lopez J-50 ORIGINAL

Hopewell, New Jersey, 085**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$79

1967 Gibson Full Line Retail Price List Les Paul SG Trini Lopez J-50 ORIGINALHandling fee is for shipping insurance only
... more
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Gibson SG  Guitar Case  /  70s Vintage  /  Gibson Logo  /  Black

Gibson SG Guitar Case / 70s Vintage / Gibson Logo / Black

Estacada, Oregon, 970**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$275

Gibson SG Guitar Case / 70s Vintage / Gibson Logo / Black
... more
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Vintage 1960s Gibson Black VOLUME Knob ES-335tdc SG Standard Custom 1961

Vintage 1960's Gibson Black VOLUME Knob ES-335tdc SG Standard Custom 1961

Plano, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$195

Clear plastic , black skirt, white numbering, silver reflector cap ??volume ??, normal light vintage wear , passes the black light test , nice original 1960 era USA Gibson. Thanks for looking
... more
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Vintage 1960s Gibson SG Standard "Batwing" Pickguard - 1967 1968 1969 Original!

Vintage 1960's Gibson SG Standard "Batwing" Pickguard - 1967 1968 1969 Original!

Chicago, Illinois, 606**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$245

Vintage Correct Parts is proud to offer, for your consideration,
A fantastic and completely original
Vintage Gibson 1960's SG Standard "Batwing" Pickguard
REAL DEAL AND IN AMAZING SHAPE
Killer 50+ year old patina!
This is correct for your mid-late 60's SG - Great shape!
Get it back to stock, get it VINTAGE CORRECT
WE SHIP WORLDWIDE
... more
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Gibson SG Pro Made in USA 1972 Vintage Electric Guitar in Excellent condition

Gibson SG Pro Made in USA 1972 Vintage Electric Guitar in Excellent condition

North Miami Beach, Florida, 331**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3250

Gibson SG pro from 1972 features twin P90 pickups and Bigsby vibrato tailpiece. Comes with original hard shell case. The guitar is in excellent condition for being 51 years old. Serious inquiries only please,... more
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1970 Gibson SG Junior Large Guard in Vintage Cherry 906151

1970 Gibson SG Junior Large Guard in Vintage Cherry 906151

Highland Park, Illinois, 600**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4195

This Used 1970 Gibson SG Junior Large Guard in Vintage Cherry is here on consignment. The neck is straight, the frets are still crowned, and the truss rod functions properly. The body features normal wear and tear for a guitar of this age. It's not minty fresh or heavily worn, but it's been played just by someone who treated it fairly well. Included with the guitar is the original case
This era of SG has a chunky neck in terms of depth but it's fairly slim regarding nut width. With 1st fret... more
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Gibson SG with Maestro Vibrola vintage 1965 w /  original hardshell case

Gibson SG with Maestro Vibrola vintage 1965 w / original hardshell case

West Chester, Pennsylvania, 193**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$21965

vintage 1965 Gibson SG with Maestro Vibrola
Comes with original case
In good playing condition- Setup for optimal playability with new strings Daddario EXL110 10-46 (9 / 19 / 23)
Specs:
- Pickups: 7 69K (N), 7 84K (B)
Guitar weighs 7lb 2oz
Back of neck possibly refinished or at least clear coated
Rest of instrument black lights properly. Neck appears to have slight separation from body. .no evidence of repair and plays perfectly
Original Pickups: Black decal "PATENT ... more
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1960s 1970s Gibson Witch hat Knobs Pair Fits SG Les Paul

1960's 1970's Gibson Witch hat Knobs Pair Fits SG Les Paul

Greenwood, Indiana, 461**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$60

This listing is for a pair of two (2) Gibson witch hat knobs. These have the silver metal insert caps, not gold. Numerals appear to be aged white. Lots of wear. These are for split shaft pots, there is no set screw. One volume and one tone. From the late 60's or early 70's. Sold as is.
... more
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Vintage 1976 CMI SG System SG-212 tube amp Gibson USA

Vintage 1976 CMI SG System SG-212 tube amp Gibson USA

Springville, New York, 141**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$649

Check out our other listings for related items
Pick up only
Vintage 1976 CMI / Gibson SG System SG-212 amp. Built like a tank. Uses two 8417 power tubes. Wattage is somewhere around 80-100 watts. Phasor does not work. Everything else does. Two Eminence 12" speakers. Sounds great. Sorry, no shipping on this one. Pick up only. Please email questions.... more
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There are 3 comments on this article so far. Add your comment

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Tim Comment left 3rd February 2017 10:10:56 reply
I have been told this sg (I inherited from my father) is a 1971 or a 1973 I think it's mahogany It's in very, very good condition serial# 104787 Can you give me an estimate of it's worth?
Vintage Guitar and Bass Comment left 3rd February 2017 23:11:16 reply
Hi Tim, unfortunately the serial number alone doesn't help value your guitar - the precise model and condition are important. Can you post some pics in the forum and i'll tell you what I can. Thanks
nick simmons Comment left 25th March 2013 06:06:05 reply
Trying to find value of a Gibson S.G.guitar made in early 70's.Ser #397925

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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.