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Guild Guitar, Bass, and Amp List

Instruments manufactured by the Guild Guitar Company

Latest Guild Updates

1978 Guild B302F fretless The B302F is the fretless version of the Guild B302, which, along with the B301 were Guilds new bass offerings for the late 1970s. Guild hadn't really came up with a innovative bass design since the low-selling Jetstar of the mid-1960s. This is not to say they didn't make fantastic basses; far from it, but the Starfire, JS and Bluesbird (M-85) basses of the late 1960s - mid 1970s could all be said to be derivatives of designs by Gibson (the EB2, EB0/3 and Les Paul bass respectively). So the B301/302 series was something new, not just in looks; it had a new design bridge and pickups too, although the actual construction (mahogany body, set mahogany neck) was traditional Guild. This bass paved the way for many new bass designs into the 1980s, some very unusual indeed. Have a listen to this bass here.
1967 Guild Capri CE-100 A closer look at a 1967 Guild CE-100. The Capri was a full-depth archtop, and Guild's first guitar with a Florentine cutaway - and a very sucessful model too; staying in the Guild catalogue in one form or another from 1958 until 1984. Stylistic similarities between models such as the ES-125C and ES-175 can be made, but this guitar is every bit as good quality as the better known Gibsons.
1968 Guild Starfire Bass IImages and description of a single-pickup 1968 Guild Starfire bass. The Starfire was a very fine bass, and a serious competitor to the Gibson EB2, finding favour with bass players from Phil Lesh and Jack Cassidy to modern-day players such as Justin Meldel-Johnsen.
1953 Guild X-175New picture set of a 1953 Guild X-175 electric acoustic guitar. 1953 was the very first year of Guild production, and in fact this was one of the first 500 instruments produced. It has a number of early features: Franz single coil pickups with black covers, very early inlays, just one volume and tone control and mahogany/maple/mahogany neck. More about the Guild X-175
Fold-out ten sided Guild catalogue. Updates the 1970 Guild catalogue. featuring an expanded range of S series solid bodies, with the addition of the S-50 and S-90. Models are shown with new 70s styling and Guild humbuckers.

Guild guitars for sale

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Original Guild X-79 Guitar From 1984

Original Guild X-79 Guitar From 1984

Sicklerville, New Jersey, 080**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2400

Original guild x-79 from 1984. This is an original guild x-79 from 1984 this is NOT a Chinese fake that you see listed on eBay. This guitar was made in the USA. It??s all original except the pick guard and one of the knobs. It has vintage Seymour Duncan pickups from the late 80s in it. Also comes with the original xr7 pickups that came with it as you can see in the pics. Comes with the original case and owners manual. Has a few nicks as you can see in the pics and some buckle scratches on the ... more
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1975 Guild F-212XL Jumbo 12-string guitar with hardshell case.

1975 Guild F-212XL Jumbo 12-string guitar with hardshell case.

Brisbane, California, 940**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$800

1973 Guild F-212XL Jumbo 12-string guitar with hardshell case. USA made at Guild's Westerly, Rhode Island factory.

This is the quintessential '70s 12-string, favored by artists such as John Denver, Neil Young, Ernie Hawkins, and many others. Long since discontinued by Guild, it is still considered 'one of the ones to have'.

A great vintage acoustic that may need some TLC. Nicks and small dents everywhere but great shape for a 50 year old 12 string. ... more
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Guild Polara Electric Guitar - Blue Steel - Used

Guild Polara Electric Guitar - Blue Steel - Used

Amagansett, New York, 119**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$395

Please see my 100% perfect feedback rating for 20 years and bid with confidence

I am not keeping this guitar because I do not like the color. It is in perfect condition and I have literally used it one time since purchasing. I have the original box as well. Great deal for a great Guild!

The plastic protector sticker wrapping on the black plate on the rear of the guitar is still fastened! That is why it looks scratched??just remove the sticker and it??s perfect! The ... more
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1984 Guild X79-3 Electric Guitar w /  Original Case

1984 Guild X79-3 Electric Guitar w / Original Case

Fort Mill, South Carolina, 297**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$103

Woody's Music of Tega Cay has a USED 1984 Guild X79-3 for Auction. This comes with a hard shell case. Item has normal signs of wear, plays & sounds great.... more
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Guild Polara S-100 deluxe Newark St. Collection - Electric Guitar

Guild Polara S-100 deluxe Newark St. Collection - Electric Guitar

New Bern, North Carolina, 285**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$500

Selling my Guild Polara S-100 Newark St. collection guitar. This is one of the guitars given to me by Guild when I first signed my endorsement deal with them as a Guild artist. I??ve never toured with this guitar. It??s only been played in the studio and practice. This is a beautiful guitar. Not even one ding or scratch that I can see. It sounds great. I just put new strings on it for this listing. Size 11s. I??m not including the case, but it will be packaged safely and securely. The action is ... more
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1966 Guild Starfire IV Sunburst Finish Vintage Electric Guitar w / OHSC

1966 Guild Starfire IV Sunburst Finish Vintage Electric Guitar w / OHSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2495

1966 Guild Starfire IV

In Good Overall Condition

Shows Playwear Throughout

Sunburst Finish

Semi-Hollow Body

Nut Width Measures 1 67"

Neck Depth Measures .83" At The 1st, .95" At The 12th
Frets Are In Very Good Condition
Binding In The Cutaways Is Separating Slightly

Headstock Veneer Is Separating Slightly In One Corner

G-String Tuner Is Missing ... more
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Vintage 1968 Thunderbass By Guild 45 Watt All Tube Amplifier Head ~ Black Tolex

Vintage 1968 Thunderbass By Guild 45 Watt All Tube Amplifier Head ~ Black Tolex

Collingswood, New Jersey, 081**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1200

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Used Guild Jetstar ST, Seafoam Green

Used Guild Jetstar ST, Seafoam Green

Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$585

Replay Guitar Exchange is proud to offer this Guild Jetstar ST ?? a unique instrument that shows off a stylish mahogany solidbody, along with a a comfortable C-profile mahogany neck and a pau ferro fingerboard. It has two powerful Guild LB-1 humbuckers, bringing about a tremendous set of vintage-style '60s tones
This guitar is in Excellent condition, as there is a small ding noticeable on the back, along with an estimated fret life of 99% remaining. Bring about the best of the best with the ... more
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Guild Guitars Westerly Collection F-150CE Cordoba F150CE F-150 China

Guild Guitars Westerly Collection F-150CE Cordoba F150CE F-150 China

South Vienna, Ohio, 453**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1200

Beautiful guitar.... more
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1955 Guild X150 ??Savoy?? Archtop

1955 Guild X150 ??Savoy?? Archtop

Fredericksburg, Virginia, 224**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3600

This is an early ?made in New York?? Guild X-150 ?Savoy?? from approximately 1955 as Guild moved to Hoboken in 1956. It features a 17?? lower bout and 25 5?? scale length, laminate spruce top and maple back and sides and single P-90 style pickup. The guitar has had its binding repaired and aged professionally so it looks natural to the age of the guitar. The guitar plays great and has a superb acoustic as well as electric sound. Aside from the binding it appears all original with no issues or ... more
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1973 Guild Jetstar JS-1 fretless Cherry

1973 Guild Jetstar JS-1 fretless Cherry

Nazareth, Pennsylvania, 180**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1399

Just in is this great 1973 Guild Jetstar JS-1 Bass Guitar
Quick details
Weight 7 6lbs
Nut Width 1 9 / 16th
Depth at 1st fret 0 88
Depth at 12th Fret 0 96
This JS-1 is A great playing and sounding bass that has some great modifications done to it. It was made fretless at some point. The bridge was also upgraded to A badass bridge which is way better then the original
There is an extra hole added from a removed Strap button on the upper horn(pictured)
The body is free ... more
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DE ARMOND BY GUILD ELECTRIC / ACOUSTIC X-155

DE ARMOND BY GUILD ELECTRIC / ACOUSTIC X-155

Spring, Texas, 773**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1350

This is one of a kind DeArmond X-155 jazz guitar that has been played so little it still has the original strings and I could list it as an open box because it has probably been played 10-15 times if that much. This guitar has been kept in exceptionally good condition in a non-smoking environment, it looks almost as a brand new guitar and has the same beautiful rich, warm sound of a much more expensive Guild guitar. These DeArmond guitars were manufactured in Korea when they were under the ... more
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GUILD G37-BLD 1977  Acoustic Guitar 138051 With Original Hard Case & Receipt

GUILD G37-BLD 1977 Acoustic Guitar 138051 With Original Hard Case & Receipt

Athens, Georgia, 306**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

This Guild G37-BLD acoustic guitar from 1977 is a true gem for any musician. Crafted with solid wood and a solid body type, this right-handed guitar produces rich, clear sound. It comes with its original hard case, which has kept the guitar in pristine condition

The guitar is part of the Original series and includes a receipt for authenticity. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a beginner, this Guild acoustic guitar is an excellent choice for any type of music. Don't ... more
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1954 Guild Vintage Blonde X375 Archtop guitar Franz pickups

1954 Guild Vintage Blonde X375 Archtop guitar Franz pickups

Summit, New Jersey, 079**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3995

1954 Guild Vintage Blonde X375 Archtop guitar Franz pickups

Vintage 1954 Guild X375 Blonde Archtop
Rare Guild X 375 has been kept in wonderful original condition, with all original electronics wrapped in original tubing, metal and plastic parts. Six button selector panel switches the three pickups in any configuration, with a master volume and tone knobs. The neck is a comfy full C profile, and the action is smooth and low, as befits a rockabilly machine of such extravagant design.... more
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1980 Guild Artist Award Model DeArmond Blonde Archtop Electric Guitar w /  OHSC

1980 Guild Artist Award Model DeArmond Blonde Archtop Electric Guitar w / OHSC

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

$7000

This is the 1980 Guild Artist Award Model Blonde Electric Guitar 25 5" scale. 1 69" nut. 17" bottom bout. 3 25" deep. 6 lbs 14 oz .87 " -1 05" 1st to 10th fret neck depth Guild pulled all the stops crafting this beauty in terms of woods an appointments This Artist starts off with a bookmatched solid spruce top, which, combined with the handcarved highly flamed back / sides creates the perfect platform for archtop tones- warm yet articulate The DeArmond Rhythm Chief floating neck pickup allows ... more
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1966 Guild Starfire 12 String Guitar

1966 Guild Starfire 12 String Guitar

Mesquite, Texas, 751**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3500

1966 Guild Starfire Semi Hollow Electric Guitar great vintage Guild Guitar with the original case added a toggle switch
Shipping: $150 00 shipping to the Lower 48 States! We ship overseas. Overseas shipping prices will vary. Overseas buyers pay their own import taxes Payment: We accept Paypal for your convenience. Payment arrangements must be made within 72 hours after the auction closes Other: Please check out our other auctions and thanks for looking!!... more
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DeArmond by Guild X-155 Electric Hollowbody

DeArmond by Guild X-155 Electric Hollowbody

Euless, Texas, 760**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$700

Beautiful electric hollow body jazz guitar. All maple archtop body and neck, rosewood fingerboard with pearl inlays, rosewood bridge, DeArmond USA humbucker pickups. Recent strings. Sunburst finish is excellent, no gouges, no cracks, looks almost untouched Inspect and try it before you buy. Local pickup, no shipping
Check my other auctions for more high-end guitars on sale.... more
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Guild X-500 Ebony Special 1966 - Ebony

Guild X-500 Ebony Special 1966 - Ebony

Brooklyn, New York, 112**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$7450


This is a beautiful one-of-a-kind Guild X-500, made in the USA in 1966. The X-500 was one of Guild's top of the line models, and this example has a custom ebony finish. It is a really beautiful instrument that plays and sounds fantastic. Everything is original except that it has been refretted. The guitar has been pro-setup in our store and it is in excellent condition. It comes with a hard shell case in very nice condition
If you have any questions, please message us
We ship ... more
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MEGARARE Vintage 53 GUILD X-350 STRATFORD 3 Pickup Archtop Guitar HANG TAG !

MEGARARE Vintage '53 GUILD X-350 STRATFORD 3 Pickup Archtop Guitar HANG TAG !

Wilmington, Delaware, 198**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$400


MEGARARE Vintage '53 GUILD X-350 STRATFORD 3 Pickup Archtop Guitar HANGTAG !


I owned this guitar and regrettably sold it 35 years ago - was shocked when I found this hang-tag! Good condition, laminated covering. Light penciled numbers that I assume to be prices
Good condition - POSSIBLY THE ONLY ONE ON THE PLANET!!!

BEST OF LUCK WITH THE AUCTION!
FREE USA shipping.
TERMS OF SALE
Sold 'as-is'.

... more
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Guild Bluesbird  Ice Tea Burst (used)

Guild Bluesbird Ice Tea Burst (used)

Sedalia, Missouri, 653**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$800

Guild Bluesbird Ice Tea Burst (used)
Serial Number: KWM1900123 Weight: 7lb Has light wear and scratches from being played. Some little dings on side by input jack. (see pics) Neck crack on Treble side of neck (repaired and stable) Comes in original Guild branded Gig Bag (see pics) Still has original pickguard and mounting bracket in unopened packaging. More information and pictures available upon request. Has been restrung, setup, and tested. Everything functions as it should. Sold ... more
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Find more Guild guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co

There are 5 comments on this article so far. Add your comment

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ben baird Comment left 11th April 2016 05:05:32 reply
nikki sixx and mick mars endorsd guild right around the shoutmtour. can youmtell me model' ij specific Mick. I knmowm they were also playing the low end B C Rich's. Sp I sjspect thr endorsemenmt must've run from too fast for love tomthe early shoutmdays
Jerry Comment left 25th November 2014 18:06:35 reply
Have you ever seen a Guild A 300 deluxe #2219? 1955? I have one in my shop need to ask someone about neck? Jerry
Lee Carver Comment left 9th June 2014 19:07:50 reply
I have a early 50"s GUILD (Silvertone) electric guitar. Seems to be in really great condition for it's age. Wondering what something like this is worth? I have pictures I can send. Lee
paul Comment left 18th December 2012 05:05:09 reply
i have a 1964 guild starfire it has duel pickups and tremolo bar and has a solid body there is a built in stand in the back of the guitar serial#36631 i search the net and cannot find this version the only guitar i found is the guild fire jet it has the same body style but only has single pickup and on the guitar it's marked starfire.I would like to know if anybody seen this model.
vickie Comment left 7th March 2012 02:02:16 reply
I have a guild electric guitar. I called Guild in their New York location (many years ago) and gave them the description and they told me that there was only 50 made of this guitar in the United States. Do you have any information on this to validate this to be true? It is beautiful red with rosewood and has toggle bar, etc. They said it was custom made. It also has autographs from 2 very famous artist. I would like to have that authencated.

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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.