Vintage Guitars
I'm happy with this
This website uses cookies to personalise content and adverts, to provide social media features, and to analyse traffic. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. See terms and conditions
ROSETTI | CATALOGS | 1971 WORLD OF GUITARS

A World of Guitars by Rosetti

1971 Rosetti guitar catalog (UK)

This Rosetti catalogue has no date, but would seem to be from 1971. "A World of Guitars by Rosetti" features guitars from numerous manufacturers worldwide - guitars by Epiphone, Hagstrom, Levin, Hoyer, Egmond, Eros, Moridaira, Kiso-Suzuki, Schaller, and Tatra.

Epiphone

Japanese guitars from Epiphone. The Epiphone pages are a last minute addition to this catalogue, having pages numbered 1-8, yet appearing in the very centre, between pages 18-19. This is effectively an update of the 1970 version, showing the 1802T and 1820 Bass with the traditional two-sided headstocks. Two guitars, two basses and five acoustics over eight pages.

Epiphone always the pace-setters in styling and performance, now change gear for a new era. Built beautifully, as they have always been built, but by a new association of cost-conscious craftsman, they cut the cost of excellence. Not by a little. By a margin so fantastic as to be unbelievable, if the prices had not been based on an enormous world-wide turnover. Epiphone still means leadership, but at prices that bring the superlative within the reach of every talent. Play Epiphone and you play the best there is, at a price you can now forward.

Hagstrom

Rosetti had only been distributing Swedish Hagstrom guitars since 1969, after many years with Selmer. One guitar, two basses and five acoustics are included over 4 sides. Pages 21 to 24.

Another great name joins the Rosetti galaxy of star-makers. Hagstrom of Sweden build their instruments to compare with any in the world. Nothing but the best of materials, nothing but the closest attention to every detail of design and manufacturer, make these guitars master works of the modern craftsman. So much so that every instrument is held in the work-rooms until it has been inspected by specialists, both in fabrication and performance. And, should anything less than perfection slip through the net, Hagstrom, with Rosetti, will restore the instrument without question and without delay.

Levin

Another brand from Sweden. This catalogue has a three-page section of Levin fine acoustic guitars. These are the most expensive acoustic guitars available from Rosetti. Pages 9 to 11.

Hoyer

This catalogue has three pages of guitars by German maker Arnold Hoyer: three Jumbo acoustics; and Les Paul, Telecaster and SG-styled solid bodies. Pages 16 to 18.

Eros

Rosetti sold a number of re-badged guitars with the brand Eros (most likely a reference to the famous statue in Piccadilly Circus, London), including Matsumoku electrics from Japan - page 8 and Eko acoustics from Italy page 12.

44 pages. 11 1/2" x 8 1/2".

1971 Rosetti catalogue front cover
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 2 - Moridaira 9510 and 9511 acoustic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 3 - Moridaira 9512, 9513 and 9514 acoustics
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 4 - Moridaira 9517, 9518 and 9519 jumbo acoustic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 5 - Kiso-Suzuki 9500, 9501 and 9502 classic acoustic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 6 - Kiso-Suzuki Concert Classic 9503 and Jumbo acoustic 9507
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 7 - Geisha 9530 and 9531 classic acoustic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 8 - Eros 9520 and 9525 electric guitars and 9521 and 9526 basses (Matsumoku)
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 9 - Levin acoustic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 10 - Levin Jumbo guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 11 - Levin classic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 12 - Eros 6-string and 12-string Jumbo acoustics
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 13 - Tatra Classic, Tatra De Luxe and Hi Spot acoustic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 14 - Rosetti Serenader and Rudi classic acoustics
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 15 - Schaller Master Classic and Scholar Classic acoustics
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 16 - Hoyer Jumbo, 12-String and Concert Western Jumbo
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 17 - Hoyer H.27 and Hoyer H.35 electric guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 18 - Hoyer H.37 six string electric and Hoyer H.34 bass
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue front cover
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue page 2 - Epiphone 6730 and 6830 Jumbo flat-top acoustics
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue page 3 - Epiphone 6834 12-string Jumbo flat-top acoustic
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue page 4 - Epiphone 6732 and 6832 folk acoustics
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue page 5 - Epiphone 9520 semi-acoustic guitar and 9521 semi-acoustic bass
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue page 6 - Epiphone 9525 solid body electric guitar
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue page 7 - Epiphone 9526 solid body electric bass
1971 Rosetti Epiphone catalogue page 8 - back cover
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 19 - Egmond Folk acoustic guitars, models: Kentucky, Toledo, Jumbo and Double Six
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 20 - Egmond Lucky Seven, Jumbo De Luxe and 12-String De Luxe
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 21 - Hagstrom Swedish Viking and Swedish Viking bass
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 22 - Hagstrom 8-String Bass
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 23 - Hagstrom Jumbo and Hagstrom 12-string acoustics
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 24 - Hagstrom La Rita, Isabella and Senorita classic acoustic guitars
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 25 - Schaller Double Bass, and Rosetti Ukuleles
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 26 - Tatra, Rosetti and Hoyer Mandolines
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 27 - 9151G and 9151T banjos
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 28
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 29 - Guitar accessories: Guitar covers and cases
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 30 - Guitar accessories: Machine heads
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 31 - Guitar accessories: Plectra, Bigsby vibrato and Hawaiian guitar accessories
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 32 - Guitar accessories: Stands, capodastros, pitchpipes, guitar straps, guitar slings
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 33 - Guitar accessories: straps, leads, capos
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 34 - Guitar accessories: Schaller pick-ups
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 35
1971 Rosetti catalogue page 36

Eros electric guitars

Eros 9520
Eros 9525

Eros bass guitars

Eros 9521
Eros 9526

Epiphone electric guitars:

Epiphone 9520
Epiphone 9525

Epiphone bass guitars:

Epiphone 9521
Epiphone 9526

Hoyer electric guitars

Hoyer Solid Body H.27
Hoyer Solid Body H.35
Hoyer Solid Body H.37

Hoyer bass guitar:

Hoyer Solid Bass H.34

Egmond electric guitars

Egmond Lucky Seven 9273

Hagstrom electric guitar:

Hagstrom Viking 9376

Hagstrom bass guitars:

Hagstrom Viking Bass 9377
Hagstrom 8-String Bass 9397

Moridaira acoustic guitars

Moridaira 9510
Moridaira 9511
Moridaira 9512
Moridaira 9513
Moridaira 9514
Moridaira 9517
Moridaira 9518
Moridaira 9519

Kiso-Suzuki acoustic guitars

Kiso-Suzuki 9500
Kiso-Suzuki 9501
Kiso-Suzuki 9502
Kiso-Suzuki 9503
Kiso-Suzuki 9507

Geisha acoustic guitars

Geisha 9530
Geisha 9531

Levin acoustic guitars

Levin Goliath Super Jumbo L.174
Levin Goliath Sunburst Jumbo 163
Levin Goliath 12-String Jumbo LTS.4
Levin Grand Concert L.113
Levin Grand Concert L.G.17
Levin Concert L.G.10

Eros acoustic guitars

Eros Jumbo 9353
Eros 12-string 9356

Tatra acoustic guitars

Tatra Classic 9198
Tatra De Luxe 9225
Hi-Spot Student 9227

Rosetti acoustic guitars

Rosetti Serenader Classic 9401
Rosetti Rudi Classic 9400

Hermann Schaller acoustic guitars

Schaller Master Classic 9298
Schaller Scholar Classic 007

Hoyer acoustic guitars

Hoyer Jumbo 9155
Hoyer 12-String 9176
Hoyer Concert Western Jumbo 9308

Epiphone acoustic guitars:

Epiphone 6730
Epiphone 6732
Epiphone 6830
Epiphone 6832
Epiphone 6834

Egmond acoustic guitars

Egmond Toledo 9272
Egmond Kentucky 9275
Egmond Jumbo 9279
Egmond Double Six 9280
Egmond Jumbo De Luxe 9402
Egmond 12-String De Luxe 9403

Hagstrom acoustic guitars

Hagstrom Senorita 9371
Hagstrom Isobella 9372
Hagstrom La Rita 9373
Hagstrom Jumbo 9374
Hagstrom 12-String 9375

Mandolins

Levin mandolin L.158
Tatra mandolin 293
Tatra mandolin 453
Tatra mandolin 9304
Rosetti mandolin 9203
Hoyer electric mandolin E9046
Hoyer mandolin 9046

Upright Bass

Schaller 391

Ukuleles

Rosetti 9346
Rosetti 9347

Banjos

G Banjo 9151G
Tenor Banjo 9151T
Got an opinion on the contents of this page? Disagree with something written above? Please comment

2024 Vintage Guitar price guide 2024 Vintage Guitar price guide

Need the value of your guitar? The Official Vintage Guitar Magazine Price Guide 2024 is out now: Amazon


Vintage guitar parts for sale
Classic Bikes for Sale Classic Motorcycles For Sale
Classic Cars for Sale Classic Cars For Sale

Vintage guitars for sale

Vintageguitarandbass.com is funded by its visitors. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. For more info see terms and conditions.
Hoyer  Acoustic r Guitar, ,1940s? Rare, Excellent  Condition, Made In Germany

Hoyer Acoustic r Guitar, ,1940s? Rare, Excellent Condition, Made In Germany

Las Vegas, Nevada, 891**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$346

For your consideration is this very Rare Hoyer guitar. I still haven't seen another one like it! This Hoyer Acoustic guitar is a true gem for any musician. Crafted in Germany during the 1940s, it features a Grand Auditorium body type with a Maple body material that produces a rich, warm tone. The Rosewood fretboard material ensures comfortable playability and precision.
This professional-level guitar is perfect for any musician who wants to take their talent to the next level. Its unique ... more
eBay logo
Lindberg Samba by Rodelbald Hoyer Acoustic archtop Guitar black - 1950s Restore

Lindberg Samba by Rodelbald Hoyer Acoustic archtop Guitar black - 1950s Restore

Orange, California, 928**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$150

appears mostly original as seen - but will need some work
shows some normal age
there are some cracks on the Top and back of body
neck is not straight and will need to be reset
includes Tuners, Bridge and Tailpiece
edge seams are fairy tight, missing a piece of the binder on back edge
finish is original
includes soft case
... more
eBay logo
Possible 1925 Levin Model 2 S Guitar with Case

Possible 1925 Levin Model 2 S Guitar with Case

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 571**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$250

This is my wife??s grandpa??s vintage 1925 Levin Model 2 S guitar. It comes with a case that has seen a few years but still works as it shoud. Several gutiar strings are damaged and would need to be replaced. Still a cool, vintage guitar. As far as I know it is not a replica, but I'm not a guitar expert and I could be mistaken
... more
eBay logo
Arnold Hoyer ??55 Thinline?? vintage single-cut archtop electric guitar

Arnold Hoyer ??55 Thinline?? vintage single-cut archtop electric guitar

Bridgeton, New Jersey, 083**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$279

This Hoyer singlecut archtop guitar with two single coil pickups and a trapeze tailpiece / bridgein sunburst finish appears from internet sources to be a ??55 Thinline?? model fromthe mid-1960s. It could possibly be a??28 Thinline??; the models were very similar. These are very rare; I have onlyseen a couple of them for sale during the past ten years. Hoyer was founded in 1873 in Germanywhere this guitar was made (Bavaria, known as West Germany at that time). Hoyerwas known for high quality ... more
eBay logo
Vintage EGMOND Acoustic 6 Strings Guitar Made In Holland Used For Repair

Vintage EGMOND Acoustic 6 Strings Guitar Made In Holland Used For Repair

Hickory Hills, Illinois, 604**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$48

Made Egmond brothers ltd. Holland factory of musical instruments No 20230072 1968'? For Repair restoration
... more
eBay logo
Levin Acoustic Guitar Model LG-20 Made In Sweden

Levin Acoustic Guitar Model LG-20 Made In Sweden

Dallas, Texas, 752**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$77

Brand & Model Name: Levin LG-20
Type & Body Style: Acoustic
Condition: Good - shows some sign of wear
---- Slight scuffing around the guitar, otherwise good condition
Case: No Case Included
Total Length: 38 5 in
Your purchases today provide a second chance for those in need
All items being sold on this ebay store have been donated and should be considered second-hand.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding our ... more
eBay logo
First Act 222 Adam Levine

First Act 222 Adam Levine

Memphis, Tennessee, 381**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$110

First Act 222 Adam Levine. Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.... more
eBay logo
Vintage Hoyer Dreadnought Acoustic w /  Gigbag - N

Vintage Hoyer Dreadnought Acoustic w / Gigbag - N

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

$900


Item: Vintage Hoyer Dreadnought Acoustic w / Gigbag!
Description: You are purchasing a Vintage Hoyer Dreadnought Acoustic w / Gigbag. Has some cosmetic wear and tear but still plays comfortably. Please inquire with any questions you may have prior to purchase
Shipping: $80 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... more
eBay logo
First Act 222 Adam Levine

First Act 222 Adam Levine

Memphis, Tennessee, 381**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$78

First Act 222 Adam Levine. Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Ground Advantage.... more
eBay logo
Vintage Egmond "Thunder II" Electric Guitar 1963

Vintage Egmond "Thunder II" Electric Guitar 1963

Grantsburg, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$500

Up for "Buy it Now" is this gorgeous 1963 Egmond "Thunder II" guitar. Pictures really tell it all. Plays and sounds fantastic. I have replaced the original nut with a bone nut. ( The original will be included ). Comes with a quality gig-bag. (The "mute" switch appears frozen. Worthless feature). Please feel free to ask any questions prior to buying and thanks for viewing. Lower 48 states only.... more
eBay logo
Levin LS-18, LT-18 1960 dreadnought guitar, incredible Maple back (Martin D 28)

Levin LS-18, LT-18 1960 dreadnought guitar, incredible Maple back (Martin D 28)

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

$1350

This is a beautiful sounding Levin LS-18 Maple back and sides spruce top guitar from 1960. It is in player condition, bumps, nicks, small scratches, this guitar has seen some play. That being said it??s a beautiful guitar with great bones. Plays and sounds great as is but with a little TLC this rare gem would be truly amazing! Please ask any and all questions before bidding, more pictures available upon request.... more
eBay logo
first act adam levine guitar

first act adam levine guitar

Spanish Fork, Utah, 846**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$41

This acoustic guitar by First Act is a must-have for fans of Adam Levine. With its sleek design and high-quality sound, it is perfect for musicians of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this guitar is sure to impress

The guitar features a variety of aspects, including its brand and type. As a First Act acoustic guitar, it delivers exceptional quality and performance. Its sleek design and smooth sound make it one of the best guitars on the market ... more
eBay logo
70s HOYER 12 STRING ACOUSTIC - made in GERMANY

70's HOYER 12 STRING ACOUSTIC - made in GERMANY

Buffalo, New York, 142**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$599

The back of the neck near the headstock has lacquer crazing. Not a cracked neck. The nice is fine. The guitar plays nice and has new strings. 70's Hoyer 12 String:* nitro finish, has lots of weather checking & wear* chunky & wide neck profile* plays & sounds nice !* SOLD AS IS - NO RETURNS
70's Hoyer 12 String:
* nitro finish, has lots of weather checking & wear
* chunky & wide neck profile
* plays & sounds nice !
* SOLD AS IS - NO RETURNS
... more
eBay logo
First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar, Strap & PicksĀ 

First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar, Strap & PicksĀ 

Naples, Florida, 341**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$61

First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar, Strap & Picks.... more
eBay logo
Adam Levine First Act Electric Guitar AL223

Adam Levine First Act Electric Guitar AL223

Fairfield, California, 945**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$100

Adam Levine First Act Electric Guitar AL223, Great Condition, comes with original box and little amp. See Photos. Sold as seen in photos
... more
eBay logo
First Act Adam Levine Designer Series Beginner Acoustic Guitar AL363

First Act Adam Levine Designer Series Beginner Acoustic Guitar AL363

Sarasota, Florida, 342**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$48

First Act Adam Levine Designer Series Beginner Acoustic Guitar AL363.... more
eBay logo
Vintage First Act Adam Levine 222 Electric Guitar White Peavy

Vintage First Act Adam Levine 222 Electric Guitar White Peavy

Mattoon, Illinois, 619**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$148

Vintage guitar, estate sale find, sold as is, as pictured, condition as pictured, someone has customized it with stickers, but you can remove that, if desired, minor wear, there are a couple of hairline cracks, and some minor bottom edge wear, tested, works, clean, looks and sounds really nice, see the photos, see all the photos, fast insured shipping, please visit my store.

... more
eBay logo
First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar w /  Strap

First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar w / Strap

West Columbia, South Carolina, 291**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$55

First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar w / Strap
This classic, parlor size guitar was designed with Adam Levine. Made of select hardwoods in the back and top, and has a natural spruce top, which adds up to a rich, full-spectrum, well-balanced tone. The parlor size is great for players with a slightly smaller build.
Classic parlor size steel string acoustic guitar, designed with Adam LevineNatural spruce top with select hardwood back and sides for a full, rich ... more
eBay logo
First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar

First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar

Ipswich, Massachusetts, 019**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$60

This beautiful acoustic guitar is from the Adam Levine Designer Series by First Act. It has a unique design and is perfect for beginners or experienced players. The guitar has a natural, brown, and black color and is made with high-quality materials. Its dimensions are 36x13 5x3 5" and it is a model AL363. This guitar is a great addition to any musician's collection.... more
eBay logo
First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar w /  Strap

First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar w / Strap

Rockford, Illinois, 611**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$60

This First Act Adam Levine AL363 Designer Series Acoustic Guitar is a top-notch musical instrument for any guitar enthusiast. With its beautiful natural, brown, and black finish, this guitar is sure to turn heads and impress audiences. It comes with a convenient strap for easy mobility during performances. The approximate dimensions of the guitar are 36x13 5x3 5", making it the perfect size for any guitarist. The brand is well-known for producing high-quality guitars, and this model is no ... more
eBay logo

Find more vintage guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co

There are 0 comments on this page so far. Add your comment

Comment on this article

Anti-spam question - to catch web robots

Contact
info@vintageguitarandbass.com

mailing list

Follow

Facebook  Instagram  YouTube

Other Great Sites

Recent posts on vintage guitar and bass

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.