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 Buying Vintage Guitars (Page 1)
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John Bushouse Member Posts: 325 From: Registered: Apr 2000 |
posted 08-14-2000 07:58
   
I'm getting ready to take the plunge - I've started shopping for an instrument older than my parents. Who's bought a vintage guitar? What was your experience like? What kind of tips do you have? What kind of problems did you run into? IP: Logged |
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webnash unregistered |
posted 08-14-2000 08:15
I have both new and vintage guitars and am most impressed with my new ones. We're in the golden age of small makers - I love the service I get from small shops - and the quality. I also find my new tricone sweeter than any old ones that I've come in contact with. IP: Logged |
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mikeln Member  Posts: 420 From: Poway, CA, USA Registered: Nov 1999 |
posted 08-14-2000 10:53
I've bought many guitars, both new and old. If buying a vintage wooden guitar (such as a '34 Gibson L7), make sure you get it from, or have access to, a good guitar repair shop. If buying a vintage National...(this from National's restoration expert)...almost all of old nationals have collapsed cones, that should be replaced with a new one. In any case, I usually see neck problems...either the neck must be re-set, or the neck/heel or neck/stick joint is cracked. I've bought off ebay, and haven't had a problem with that but you really need to know what you are buying and how to identify/verify its vintage. Usually I'll use a reputable vintage dealer, either a local shop or Bernunzio Vintage Instruments. I find that the vintage instruments tend to capture the sound better than new recreations... '34 L7 gives that big band "chop", '32 Duolian - street blues, '28 Tricone Squareneck - Traditional Hawaiian... IP: Logged |
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Jeffrey Sipress Member  Posts: 1335 From: Santa Barbara, CA Registered: Nov 1999 |
posted 08-14-2000 12:39
I got my first vintage instrument a year ago, and began voraciously seeking information on them and how to approach them. Magazines, websites, dealers, and best of all, other collectors and luthiers have taught me a lot. Yes, I am thrilled with the perfection of the current smaller builders, but you have to turn your head (and expectations) around with the old ones. Remember, most things can be fixed or repaired.. Get used to it. I have a '42 L-00, '56 O-15, '47 000-21. What's the official word on the year 'vintage' starts? It sounds funny, but some people think that my early 70's Martin and Strat are vintage..... How am I supposed to feel? I bought them new myself!! Approaching senior citizenry.... (gasp..no!) Jeffrey IP: Logged |
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Phil Adams Member Posts: 4 From: New York, NY, USA Registered: Jun 2000 |
posted 08-14-2000 13:35
Check this out http://www.mandoweb.com/ I would also write/call for recent/past catalogs. Good luck with your search. IP: Logged |
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mondoeddy unregistered |
posted 02-26-2003 19:12
If you're looking to buy a vintage instrument be very aware that everyone on e-bay claims their item is vintage or collectable, the fact is a vintage instrument should have no additions or modifications. all prigional parts is the bottom line. There is a trend today that people who own fenders think that everything fender inc. ever made is worth a lot of money and there are a lot of fools out there falling for it. Keep in mind at least 75 percent of e-bays sellers of fender equipment want to make more then they paid for their particular instrument. They say either vintage or soon to be. In my opinion vintage means the years when the instrument first appeared on the market untill the origional owners sold the business. In the case of Fender that should be from about 1948 untill 1963. Anything after that is in no way considered Vintage just old. IP: Logged |
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Mike A. Simpson Member Posts: 57 From: Registered: Apr 2002 |
posted 02-26-2003 20:04
John, What kind of vintage instrument are you looking for? National or Gibson? I have had "good lock" with the purchases of older guitars that I have made. Some were from friends whose parent had passed away and they inherited them, some were from guitar shops locally, one at a guitar show and a few off of ebay. If an older guitar has been played much and not been refretted it will probably need frets. Plan on a general setup after receiving a vintage guitar. The most obvious problem to look for is too much neck relief (bowed neck) or a neck that has improper angle to the bridge (needs a neck reset). 1. Know what is original and what is not on the model / brand you want. 2. Verify what repairs have been made or are needed. 3. Any vintage guitar that has been refinished has lost a good portion of it's value regardless of how bad the condition was or how good the refinish is. 4. Not "ALL" national cones are crushed and need replaced. I have 3 Nationals with original cones that sound better than a "new cone" Send me your original cones that you have replaced. 5. Have the money on hand and keep looking until you find what you want. Good guitars and good deals are where and when you find them and are usually gone quickly. Good Luck Big Mike Simpson IP: Logged |
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hoodadoo Member Posts: 2011 From: Westport, Ct., Registered: Mar 2001 |
posted 02-26-2003 21:28
I have both new and old instruments. Vintage: 1931 Duolian, 1931 Polychrome Triolian, 1957 Martin 00 18, 1955 Gibson J 45, 1930 Majestic tenor banjo. New: National Resophonic Polychrome Delphi, National Resophonic Polychrome Tricone, a Hora Romanian upright Bass, early 70's Fender precision bass, 1968 Ampeg B 15 bass amp (that may be considered vintage)....I suppose you can add in my Deering 5 string banjo, and my ole reliable 1960's 12 string Silvertone acoustic, and the 1950's? fake blonde Stella parlor guitar. The other people who posted before me offered very good tips on checking out instruments, I would only add that establish a trusting relationship with a good guitar luthier, one who can, and will, explain everything in detail about your instruments, and any repairs they may need. [This message has been edited by hoodadoo (edited February 26, 2003).] IP: Logged |
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John B Member  Posts: 1387 From: Registered: May 2000 |
posted 02-26-2003 22:00
Wow - since the time I originally started this thread 2 1/2 years ago, I abandoned my efforts to get a vintage instrument. Although, I have my eye on a vintage Gibson (1929) as we speak... Thanks to all who responded, especially the recent responses. And Mike, I know better than to get rid of old National Cones! By the way, did Mike D pass on the link to the El Trovador? I played one this last weekend - it sounds great, but it's awfully expensive... not for a vintage National, but still... IP: Logged |
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Mike A. Simpson Member Posts: 57 From: Registered: Apr 2002 |
posted 02-27-2003 05:45
John, I didn't even notic that this was another old thread revived by someone unregistered. Yes Mike D. did send mr the El Trov link but in my opinion that is way too much unless it is in "unplayed mint + condition" and only then to a collector, not a player. I just bought a 29 Polychrome Triolian with a bad bakelite neck for $875. The body and cone are 9 out of 10 and I am making a original style wood neck for it. IP: Logged |
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crossrdblue Member  Posts: 1078 From: Denver, CO Registered: Feb 2001 |
posted 02-27-2003 12:20
I bought a 1947 Martin 00-18 awhile back. I bought it from a trusted local dealer and got a great price b/c it was played HARD during its long life. Dressed frets and eventually had the neck reset, the cost of which was equal to the original cost. But dude! What a piece of work! Paper thin mahogony back pounds against your stomach like a Jenson 12" when you play, and it has more bass than my Big Gibson! Wherever you buy, make sure you have THE local luthier who can check it out for you. I successfully purchased a very old Maybell parlour guitar on e-bay, but it turned out that the seller was our very own Hoodadoo!!! That worked out pretty well! Brad. IP: Logged |
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hoodadoo Member Posts: 2011 From: Westport, Ct., Registered: Mar 2001 |
posted 02-27-2003 14:05
I miss MayBell, but know she has a happy home! I just sold a Richenbacker post war lap steel guitar. The stamped sheet metal model, with the flip top peghead cover. Smaller pickup than the pre war monster, but still a real nice instrument. Some woman musician up in the Boston area is the new owner. I had it listed on eBay, but didn't want to seem like I use the Forum to sell my instruments so I didn't mention it. Here's the link: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2509057010 crossrdblue, a 49' 00 18, great find. I love my 57' brought it to IGS last summer. Not sure what I'll bring this year. IP: Logged |
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MikeT Member Posts: 36 From: Fort Collins, CO-USA Registered: Nov 2002 |
posted 02-27-2003 20:13
Several years back I purchased a '44 Gibson LG2 on ebay. The price was right, but the instrument looked bad. I emailed the guy offering it and stipulated that it had to pass structural inspection or I'd ship it back at my cost. He agreed and I got this great guitar for a good price. Now, the guitar was not a beauty, it's cracked front and back, I've had have some of the bracing glued back into place, but truth be known, I love it. I have a newer Gibson, take it out sometimes, but always gravitate back to the feel of that thick wide neck in my hands, the sound, and like Brad says, the feedback on my chest whenever I play it. Vintage instrument, YES, by all means get one. 1) the deals are out there, 2) the instruments often provide some of the best deapest sound you'll ever find, 3) why wait 20 years for an instrument to age, and 4) we all need to protect our Guitar Heritage in our own way. I'll also say, be careful. I've played some real duds that are only just nice wall hangers. Happy shopping!. IP: Logged |
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jim burke Member Posts: 201 From: petaluma, ca,usa Registered: Sep 2000 |
posted 02-28-2003 06:48
I bought a 1935 style O on ebay. It was as described. Had to sell my new tricone to pay for it. I paid an extra $300 for the neck reset. It's a great guitar and I'm real happy with it. I also bought a 1920 brazillian rosewood parlor guitar. Another $300 for neck reset and I've got another great old guitar. I love the feel of those old guitars. As far as the "vintage thing" where everything is supposed to be original. Well, I guess it depends on what you are after. I just want a guitar that plays and sounds good. I really don't care about the status of originality. If I drove a 1936 Terraplane, I would expect to have replaced the brakes, clutch, probably a transmission or two, generators, starters, etc. You get the point. Things wear out with use and get replaced. IP: Logged |
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Russ Young Member Posts: 1687 From: Seattle, Washington USA Registered: Jan 2003 |
posted 03-01-2003 10:49
I bought a 1931 Style "1.5" tricone from someone I met through the Steel Guitar Forum (Paul Warnik of Oak Lawn, IL). I had read many positive comments from others who had seen, played and purchased his guitars, so I felt quite confident about buying from him sight unseen. He gave me a 24-hour return period, so my only real gamble was the shipping cost. If anything, he probably understated the appearance and tone of the guitar -- i.e., it was even nicer than what I expected. Since then, I have "endorsed" him with others who have inquired about his integrity ... and I have not received any negative feedback. I'm sure that there are plenty of rip-off artists out there, but that shouldn't deter you from doing a little "due diligence" about the sellers, and determining who can be trusted. As a result, you may be able to look nationwide for the guitar you really want. IP: Logged |
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rickg1953 New Member Posts: 1 From: Tempe, AZ, USA Registered: Apr 2005 |
posted 04-21-2005 10:34
quote: John, I too am looking into an older guitar (1953 Martin) and I have not decided if I want to actually go and try the instrument first before I buy. IP: Logged |
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toremainn Member Posts: 806 From: Bodø, Norway Registered: Jan 2003 |
posted 04-21-2005 11:00
quote: You don't buy guitars because they're vintage. It's the brand and type that you have dreamed of that get you to this point. Advice: When you first start, you are addicted.....nothing wrong with that. IP: Logged |
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John B Member Posts: 1387 From: Registered: May 2000 |
posted 04-21-2005 11:39
I started this thread almost 5 years ago, when I had my eye on a 1919 Gibson L-3. I still never found the right one for me, but I still am interested in guitars that are older than my parents - any brands or years thoughtfully considered. IP: Logged |
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toremainn Member Posts: 806 From: Bodø, Norway Registered: Jan 2003 |
posted 04-21-2005 13:06
5 years ! Almost vintage. Have you bought any yet ? The limit is 30 years. IP: Logged |
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Jeffrey Sipress Member Posts: 1335 From: Santa Barbara, CA Registered: Nov 1999 |
posted 04-21-2005 13:19
John, you shoulda bought vintage stuff five years ago when you started this thread. You'd be sitting pretty right now. If one has an instrument that they bought new and it is now regarded as vintage, then what is that person called now? IP: Logged |
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Scott Jacobs Moderator  Posts: 3460 From: Port Charlotte, FL Registered: Apr 2001 |
posted 04-21-2005 13:33
quote: Old? IP: Logged |
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Duke Member Posts: 534 From: fort wayne, IN Registered: Aug 2004 |
posted 04-21-2005 13:39
Really old well-used guitars have stories to tell. I get a palpable vibe from anything pre-WWII. And it is just as strong with a no-name parlor as with fancier jewels. You're playing a survivor, something physically linked to the past. IP: Logged |
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Steve Schmidt Member Posts: 275 From: Niceville, Florida, USA Registered: Jul 2003 |
posted 04-21-2005 13:51
quote: Vintage. It sounds nicer than just "old." ;^) IP: Logged |
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Rhino Member Posts: 536 From: Southern Cal, USA Registered: May 2004 |
posted 04-21-2005 14:13
from Big MIke Simpson, the artist formerly know only as Mike A. Simpson...... "I just bought a 29 Polychrome Triolian with a bad bakelite neck for $875. The body and cone are 9 out of 10 and I am making a original style wood neck for it."
(teasing as I know he hasn't gotten to it! Nice to see the transition in monikor!) best, IP: Logged |
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gassman New Member Posts: 4 From: San Francisco, Ca, USA Registered: Jun 2005 |
posted 06-30-2005 07:41
This thread seems to have some "vintage" guitar players......I also have just become an AARP member. I am looking for something to have the rest of my life that is the same age. I have only been playing for about five years and currently I use a 300 series Taylor. Can anyone tell me about a 1955 J-45 Gibson? Or any other 1955 vintage guitar that a intermediate fingerpicker would love to own? Thanks in advance. Gassman IP: Logged |
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Kirk Rogers Member Posts: 251 From: Pasadena, Ca USA Registered: Mar 2005 |
posted 06-30-2005 08:16
This is a very good thread. There is a magazine called Vintage Guitar which is must for all. I think it is my #1 favorite magazine. When buy it is always best to be prepared and well eduacted. Many many god advises here. I'd get a Vintage Guitar Buying Guide first. Love to see what you get. Kirk Rogers IP: Logged |
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waxwing Member Posts: 1431 From: Oakland, CA Registered: Oct 2001 |
posted 06-30-2005 10:10
gassman. One issue you might have with '50s era guitars of any stripe is that a 1 3/4" or wider fretboard is a rarity. Most are about 1 11/16" which can be narrow for many fingerpickers. That's why, in general, you see fingerpickers looking for guitars from the '40s and earlier. But there are many happy J-45 fingerpickers out there. Try to get around to some shops and play a few to see how they feel. All for now. IP: Logged |
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TM Member Posts: 64 From: Registered: Jan 2004 |
posted 06-30-2005 17:13
Gassman, What questions do you have in particular about a 1955 J 45? I own several Gibsons and would be glad to help. Gibsons from this era are pretty sturdy guitars, I have owned and played some very beat guitars that still played and sounded great. 20 years ago it was uncommon for a 55 Gibson to need a neck set, today that is an issue that needs to be answered with 20 more years on them. They can have a very nice sound for blues playing. TM IP: Logged |
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raggyblues Member Posts: 146 From: Bloomfield Hills, MI, USA Registered: Oct 2003 |
posted 06-30-2005 18:14
I have a dozen and a half vintage Gibsons...from an early Style "O", L-3, LOO, L-Century, '42 SJ, '46 J-45, an early Jumbo, a fabulous J-35, a stairstep '39 J-55, several 1950's J-185s, etc. I also have four Froggy Bottoms, which I consider superior to all of the above except the Jumbo and the SJ (which are both "killer"! My advice...get a good luthier IN ADVANCE. A good one can find flaws, repairs, non-original parts that you might not ever be aware of. He can also clue you in on what needs to be done to make it sound great, so that you assess whether the instrument is worth what you are being asked to pay. Often a choice needs to be made between "players" and investments...I try to fing attractive, original instruments that are easy to play and sound good. IP: Logged |
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gassman New Member Posts: 4 From: San Francisco, Ca, USA Registered: Jun 2005 |
posted 07-04-2005 18:00
The reason for the J-45 is part nostalgia and part sound. Since I was born in 1955 is would be nice to have something as old as me. The questions I have is how is the 1955 J-45 noted as far as vintage guitars are considered? How is the sound and playability, i.e. action on the neck? Are these guitars overall considered a great guitar and how are they compared to a Martin from the same era? Thanks in advance. Anyone know of a good luthier in the Bay Area. (SF)? Thanks in advance, IP: Logged |
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pto Member Posts: 548 From: San Francisco, CA Registered: Jun 2004 |
posted 07-04-2005 19:14
I would recommend Gary Brawer. The store is a little funky and hard to find but worth it. Near Mission and Van Ness. He's been around a long time, well regarded for both electrics and acoustics. He has worked on a number of my guitars, mostly electrics but some acoustics. I always been very happy with his work. Sometimes a bit of a wait because he is so busy. On this board, John (Waxwing) has had vintage guitars set up by Gary with good success. Peter IP: Logged |
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masterblaster New Member Posts: 1 From: pittsburgh pa Registered: Aug 2006 |
posted 08-25-2006 08:20
Lots of good advice on vintage guitars. Vintage Guitar magazine is really great and there are several vintage guitar guying guides available but I think the VG magazine guide is the best. It comes out annually with current prices. Amazon has tons of vintage guitar books as well. Here's a site that has some info on vintage guitars and quite a few nice photos. http://www.rocknrollvintage.com IP: Logged |
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mealots New Member Posts: 4 From: Registered: Nov 2006 |
posted 11-27-2006 13:28
I have a old duolian number 7254 with a poorly repaired neck, it can be played and holds a tune but I have no idea what year it is. It is a 14 fret to the top of the metal body, thick and flat fretboard. The dots are wooden and the body is steel grey. I know it would cost around 500 dollars to fix the neck. But I was wondering what year it was so I can recalculate the value and sell it. The number is printed on the top of the neck by the way. Thanks. IP: Logged |
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Brad Bechtel Member  Posts: 622 From: San Bruno, CA USA Registered: Sep 2004 |
posted 11-27-2006 14:20
http://www.provide.net/~cfh/national.html#serial IP: Logged |
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Jeffrey Sipress Member Posts: 1335 From: Santa Barbara, CA Registered: Nov 1999 |
posted 11-27-2006 14:41
Wow!! The thread that won't die! I like it. I just bought a '68 Telecaster. I was seeking a 65 or 66, but this one was there and it has the TONE. The difference in current pricing of '66 and '68's is astounding. 66's are worth twice as much. Real older ones (50's) are worth 10 times that. It's crazy, but it's also an investment. IP: Logged |
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mealots New Member Posts: 4 From: Registered: Nov 2006 |
posted 12-03-2006 09:06
I looked at this site and I see no where a numbering example for 7254. Can anyone hwlp mw to find the year of this duolian? Thanks IP: Logged |
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Anders Member Posts: 220 From: Norway Registered: Aug 2000 |
posted 12-03-2006 09:15
quote: Hi, Anders IP: Logged |
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John B Member Posts: 1387 From: Registered: May 2000 |
posted 12-03-2006 10:26
I finally did get a vintage guitar, just this fall - a little older than the two I was looking at earlier in this thread - a 1907 Gibson L-1. IP: Logged |
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mealots New Member Posts: 4 From: Registered: Nov 2006 |
posted 12-03-2006 20:27
Can I email you pictures please cause I do not have a web page to post them on? Mine is mealot@gmail.com. IP: Logged |
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Anders Member Posts: 220 From: Norway Registered: Aug 2000 |
posted 12-04-2006 16:14
quote: Here are the pictures of mealots Duolian. Anybody got any comments about it? Serial no. 7254. Anders IP: Logged |
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