Santa Jeffy’s Guitar Shop

In the spring of 2017, John O'Connell, the owner of Crazy Horse Guitars in Des Moines, unexpectedly passed away.  And, too, so ended one of the iconic guitar shops in the city.   John was always nice to me.  He was eager to help and provide advice on my older guitars.  

This Supertone Hawaiian hung in his shop for as long as I can remember.  I am now the custodian of this piece of guitar history and memorabilia from CHG.

There is a stamp on the interior label that should indicate the year of manufacture.  It has weathered to nearly unreadable.  I can interpret the stamp as either '32 or '42...we will never know.  At a minimum, my research does show that this guitar was made in the '30's - '40's.

The artwork and sound hole ring was stenciled onto the body.  At some point, someone reattached or replaced the bridge with screws.  She definitely needs a neck reset.  A good cleaning wouldn't hurt either.

No matter.  I did not buy this guitar for resale.  It will hang in my guitar room and remind me of the "grumpy, old hippie".

Martin Historical Information:

The F-55 was made between '61-'65.

This is 1 of 325 made in '62.

A total of 665 units were produced in the 4 year run.

Serial #182301 notes:

Production month & year: February 1962

Factory: Nazareth, Pennsylvania

The Back Story...

I purchased this from Sunday Guitars in Bend, Oregon, during the summer of 2016. The owner of the shop, Ted Engstrom, was kind enough to spend time on the phone providing some history...

The guitar was purchased, used, in 1964 by a local band teacher, who was a friend of Ted's. It was maintained by what is now Sunday Guitars.

Much to Ted's chagrin, during the '90's, she spent nearly the entire decade in the case and under a bed. He was constantly bugging his buddy to play her! In 2000, the band teacher returned to guitar playing and Ted brought this guitar back to life.

BTW - The tech at Sunday Guitars had to talk to me before Ted could officially "sell" this guitar to me. I had to insure that...

1) The guitar would be played and properly stored.

2) I acknowledged that I was becoming a steward of a piece of guitar history and not just a 'buyer'.

The Patina...

You will note that there is truss rod cover on the face of the headstock. These guitars did not have a truss rod. The cover is there to hide doweling pins used for a headstock repair. You can also slightly see that the B string tuning peg penetration was repaired. The luthier who performed the repair must not have had exact matching stain. The headstock is two-tone below the Martin logo. The color was nicely feathered on the back of the neck. (NOTE: I asked The Lutherie Shoppe in Des Moines about refinishing the headstock. They immediately responded, "NO". This would devalue the instrument.)

According to Ted, these repairs were done between '62 and '64. It is the condition his friend found the guitar and have never been an issue. To which, I agree. The playability is absolutely enjoyable.

The original pickguard has long since been removed. If this originally came with the lucite bridge, it wasn't there in 1964 when the band teacher bought it. There is a bald spot on the back of the body from buckle rash. There are dings, chips, finish checking and scratches. Given this is a '62 (64 years old) and it was played, nothing out of the ordinary. Indeed, these 'flaws' add to the character.

After a thorough detail, she went for a complete once over by my local tech. Overall, the guitar checked out fine and has a clean 'bill of health'. The pickup switch was a "cheap chinese" unit. It was replaced with a new, correct and proper quality switch. The wiring was thoroughly checked out, corrections were made and rerouted for better cosmetic appeal.

The guitar did not have the original case. For safe shipping travel to Iowa, Ted paired the guitar with a new, 2016 Guardian hard case.

This F-55 has an excellent hollowbody, jazz box sound and feel. The action is properly set. Easy on the fingers. A treat to listen to.

It's your turn to be the "steward of (this) piece of guitar history".

Martin Historical Information:

The F-65 was made between '61-'65.

This is 1 of 101 F-65's made in '63. A total of 556 to 566 units of the F-65 were produced during its 4-year run.

Note on "B" Designation: Some listings indicate that early models featured a Bigsby vibrato bridge, thereby making this particular model year configuration very rare.

Build Information: The F-65 was a double-cutaway, thinline hollow body featuring a Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and two DeArmond pickups.

Serial #189993 Notes:

Production year: June 1963

Factory: Nazareth, Pennsylvania

The Back Story...

In 2017, I purchased this F-65B (B is for Bigsby) from Rivington Guitars in NYC. They obtained this from the original owner. Given the condition, this guitar had a relatively easy life. She's a very good example of this series of Martin electric guitars.

This is a complete, original package:

Original Martin hard case w/ key.

Original factory dealer hang tag.

Original acrylic bridge (which was typically dumped by the players of this model).

My ownership notes:

My tech completed an electronics cleaning and pro setup. There was some concern that the pots were too far gone, but they were resurrected. I found a period correct Bigsby bridge and had him install it (original Lucite bridge is in the case).

Like many of my vintage guitars, I rarely played this one over the past 9 years. To me, these are more works of art and was treated as such.

The Patina...

She sports the typical dings you'd expect on a 63 year old guitar. But, these are few and far between.

The G string tuning button shaft is slightly bent (this was there upon arrival in 2017), but this does not interfere with the function. While I could have replaced it, I opted for keeping her original.

While still in decent condition, the case needed a little help. All the webbing hinge straps were shot. The protective interior padding was flat. After some reconditioning and the addition of a new hinge strap, fit and finish was much improved. No issues with the original interior compartment cover. With the exception of the keyed latch, all of the original latches are there and function as they should. The keyed latch, which worked, was loose upon arrival and eventually fell off. I am sure it's an easy fix for a leather shop.

As for playability and sound, she's great. Easy on the fingers. The action is perfect for my tastes. The Bigsby adds a touch of fun. The DeArmond pickups sound natural, yet jazzy. (I'd put this F-65B up against any of my Gibson 335's in a sound challenge).

This is a rare find for the model year. A fantastic addition to any vintage collection.

In October of 2015 I bought this 1971 ES-320TD from Mike Law, owner of Lawman Guitars in West Des Moines, IA. I have always been happy to have this guitar in my collection. Now, it's your turn to enjoy this vintage instrument.

Dating this Guitar:

There was considerable discussion surrounding the dating this 320. Mike had dated the guitar as a '72. John O'Connell, owner of Crazy Horse Guitars (Gibson, Martin and vintage dealer for years), broke out his Gibson research materials and dated it as a '71. My tech replaced the pots in May of 2017 allowing Dirk Newton, a local vintage guitar shop owner, to use the numbers on the pots to confirm that she is, indeed, a '71.

Serial #961833 Information:

Per the available serial number data, this ES320 was made at the Kalamazoo or Nashville Plant in 1970, 1971 or 1972.

Original Pot #1346615 Information:

The potentiometers were made by Mepco/CentraLab, Inc. in the 15th week of 1966.

The part numbers, BA811-370K / 250K, indicates a frequently used potentiometers in Gibson instruments during the era.

NOTE: Potentiometer dates often precede the final assembly date of a Gibson guitar by several months, or even years, and should be used to establish the earliest possible manufacture date.

Historical Research Notes:

Per John O'Connell and his Gibson dealer data, there were approximately 669 320's were made in total. He also noted that this particular 320 is most likely is 1 of 1...no more than 4...for a 1971 model in Maple Natural, as the Cherry Burst and Cherry Red bodies were far more popular.

My ownership notes:

In 2017, we performed a neck reset, added fresh pots (I still have the originals, which had given up the ghost) and 50's style wiring. These updates gave the guitar a solid Gibson sound, but all it's own.

Prior to me becoming the caretaker of this 320, she must have been refretted. GREAT playability. Low action.

Everyone concurred that this 320 was obviously from a pro player. The fretboard has the wear one would expect from serious playing.

Original Gibson Deluxe tuning machines.

Original Gibson branded pickups.

Original Gibson branded bridge cover.

Original pickguard.

Original Hard Case.

If you are looking for an ES-320 in Maple Natural, don't pass this one up!

WOW!! A piece of Rock-n-Roll history has been added to the collection!

This heavily modified 1974-75 Gibson Flying V is assumed to have been owned by the one and only Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick.

Kevin Neal, the “Guitar Wizard”, is very familiar with this V. He’s been aware of it’s existence for years and prepped it for release from the Trent Litten Estate Guitar Collection. “Judging by the modifications done to this instrument, I am assuming that this wasn't just any old guitar out of Rick's collection, but was actually a guitar that was used by Rick. I mean…the mods on this SCREAM Rick Nielsen.”

The mods include 3 Dimarzio p-ups, Dimarzio pots, a global kill switch and coil tap switch. The tuners have been changed and there definitely was a refret done to this at some point. Not much original on this aside from the paint!

Trent proudly displayed this autographed V at Professional Music Center for as long as I have been a customer. Trent befriended many artists who were avid guitar collectors. It was known in the Des Moines music community that he was one of Rick’s guitar sources and, so the story goes, for a time, they would check in with each other to see who had what in their collections and if something was being offered up.

THE LEGEND OF THIS V.

There are a couple stories floating around about how this guitar ended up in Trent’s collection. At a minimum, anyone I speak with says that the guitar was a gift and was not intended to be in circulation. As a result, there is no COA.

There is also speculation as to whether or not this guitar was stage played or only studio played. Either way, everyone agrees that the mods are in strong alignment with Nielsen’s preferences when it comes to customized instruments. And given the bumps and bruises, it is very possible he gigged this V.

STORY #1

This guitar was gifted by Rick to Trent in appreciation for his friendship and time spent hunting for specific guitars that he wanted to add to his collection.

STORY #2

This guitar was gifted by Rick to one of his producers, who also was a friend of Trent’s. The producer either gifted it to Trent or sold it to him. (Most believe it was gifted.)

UPDATE! 6/8/2024 - & STORY #3

I had the original autograph authenticated by AutographCOA in March of 2024. While there was no doubt, I thought it best to have this done. Obviously, this is live ink on the guitar. However, I still wanted to learn the rest of the back story.

Rick now has a line of vodka and performs bottle signings. Most are withing driving distance. On 6/8/24, Carol and I attended the Rock'n Vodka signing event in Sycamore, IL.

Since we purchased a case of his booze, we moved to the front of the line and were afforded extra time with Rick. I was star struck.

After sharing the 'legends' of the V and asking if he could recall owning this guitar he said, "Sure!". His follow up comment was, "I probably owned this at one time. I just don't recall specifically." Which is not surprising as he's owned over 2000 guitars.

Nonetheless, I was able to reunite the guitar with this Rock-n-Roll Hall of Famer and speak to the man. He added a 2nd autograph to the guitar (red Sharpie). He also signed 4 bottles of his vodka and a piece of signage.

This V has the original Gibson hardcase. For good measure, Rick tossed in one his guitar picks and it still with the package.

SUPER COOL!!!

I picked this Martin up from Lawman Guitars in West Des Moines. The Lawman got it from Crazy Horse Guitars in Des Moines.  Between the 2 of them, this specimen was brought back from being "unloved" to a classic, all original D-18.

The action is low.  Straight neck.  Intonation is spot on.  Solid Martin sound and feel.  Even smells old.  Complete with original case. 

“A true workhorse of the Martin line, this iconic guitar is a zenith of flat-top design.”

A great addition to the collection.  This is my favorite acoustic.

This estate sale guitar was a prized possession of a local guitar hobbyist who preferred building his player instruments.  It may have been his only Martin factory made guitar.  For the vast majority of its life she was either stored in the case and only opened for an occasional viewing and maintenance or in a display cabinet at the owner’s office. She was rarely played as the instrument was considered a show piece.

The guitar was purchased on 12/20/97 from Podium Music in Minneapolis, MN.  There was a short period where he sold it to a friend who never regularly played it, but cherished it as much as the 1st owner.  After a couple of years, he bought it back, never to part from the D-42 again.

Due to medical needs, the owner placed the guitar in its case and was unable to maintain hydration.  As a result, a very minor belly crack appeared which was only detectable by touch.  I took her to The Lutherie Shop in Des Moines for a complete inspection and repair.  Scott found that the bridge was starting to lift, which was added to the work order.  Other than the minor pick guard scratching, he said, “This guitar shows as new.”

“The D-42's dreadnought body shape ensures impressive volume and projection, allowing the depth of its tone to take center stage. The delicate balance of rich tone and volume makes this guitar a versatile choice, able to adapt to a broad spectrum of musical styles.

Its elegance lies in the details. The D-42 boasts of mother of pearl dot inlays, a tortoise pickguard, and an aged toner finish, enhancing its timeless aesthetics. The guitar's scalloped "X" bracing amplifies its resonance, delivering an open, vibrant sound that appeals to musicians of all genres.”

- Equipboard.com

You are reading correctly.  The “100’s” are in my stable.

Here’s the story…

During the winter of ‘22, I was looking for a Shellback and stumbled upon these listings.  Six String Brokerage. located in  Nazareth, PA (the home of the Martin Guitar factory) took these 2 instruments in on consignment.

The original owner, who worked at Martin,  purchased these guitars through their employee purchase program.  That’s right… the Jimmy Buffett Pollywog (#100 of 305) and the matching Jimmy Buffet Shellback (#100 of 168).

The owner of String String Brokerage also shared that the owner was not a guitar player.  Since purchase these guitars had been properly stored in a climate controlled environment and unplayed.  Heck, the original strings were still on the guitars!

Jimmy signed each of the labels for both runs of these guitars.  For the “100’s”, he added extra love…

On the Pollywog label:  “Be good and you will be lonesome.  Mark Twain”

On the Shellback label:  “Hello from the road.  Pine Knob ‘03.”

How could I buy just the Shellback?  These guitars deserved to be kept together. And so they are.

I finally summoned the courage to let these guitars out of my site for servicing (I did not have the intestinal fortitude to DIY the cleaning & restringing.  God forbid I scratch one of them).  After reconnecting with my former guitar tutor and friend, Kevin Neal, guitar wizard and owner of Redd No. 7 Recording Studio, I knew I had the right guy for the job.  I’d trust Kevin with any of my guitars!

When I took possession of these guitars they were in a new condition and are free of any signs of use.   Now, after Kevin’s magic touch, they are truly minty.

Kevin’s notes….

“I’d gig the Shellback today.  It’s that good.  The sound that comes from the Pollywog is phenomenal.  It is special.”

Complete with original cases that show no signs of wear, and case candy.  What a find!

Shortly after I decided that I was going to stick with the guitar, I purchased this Martin from Professional Music Center in Clive, IA.  The walnut sides and back give this guitar a warm sound.  She's been my "go to" acoustic from the start.  I love, love, love this guitar.  Complete with original issue case.  Fishman onboard electronics are hidden from view.

MSRP in 2003 was $2,349.00.  Not many of these  Premium Walnut models were made.    After this model was removed from production, Martin did offer it from their custom shop for a year or 2, built to order...and that was spendy (over $3,000).

Serial #024080329 Information:

Made at the Nashville Plant, TN

August 27th, 2008

Production Number: 29  

Model Number #LP5FHBNH1 Information:

LP = Les Paul

5 = '50s neck

FHB = Faded, Honey Burst

NH = Nickel Hardware

1 = Quality level 1

Weight: 7.5 lbs.

Back Story...

I bought this Les Paul new, right off the showroom wall, from Professional Music Center in Clive, IA in November of 2009. I was on the hunt for a cherry burst, but this one really caught my eye. She's a really cool LP. I love the flat finish and overall cosmetics.

My ownership notes...

Like most of my guitars, when I find something I like, I add them to my stable, play them very little and simply admire them for what they are... artwork. This Les Paul is no exception. If I have 5 hours of playing time accumulated on this guitar over 17 years of ownership, I'd be surprised. (The Gibson dealer knew this and in 2016 he offered to buy this back from me as, at the time, Gibson manufacturing was slow and inventory was thin!)

Despite the appearance of some very minor showroom wear and aging on the strap buttons (see pictures), this LP shows "as new". She needs nothing.

The neck is comfortable. The action is excellent. The sound is great. 100% original.

This package includes the factory issued hard case, pickguard (which I chose not to install), inspection card and owners manual.

I have given her a "spa treatment", including a fresh set of Gibson 10 Light Brite Wires. She's ready for a new caretaker.

Yeah....you want this one.

And it shall come to pass that you shall purchase your first electric guitar...so, after much coaching from my guitar tutor, this baby came home with me from Professional Music Center in Clive, IA.    Man, oh man...can this guitar sing.  I would purposely bring it into the shop to let the pro players give her a workout, as my skills just cannot do her justice.

Made at the Nashville Plant,  on February 28th, 2008. Production Number: 431Model: ESDPVSNH1.  Nickel Hardware.  Rated by Gibson as "Quality Level 1".

All original with OEM case.  Love that '50's look.  I'd name her "Grampy", but she's not the oldest of the stable.

GO BIG RED!  What guitar collecting Husker fan wouldn’t want one of these??  Heck, College Guitar’s is out of business.  So….this is bound to be a collector’s item.  Right?

A “Deluxe Guitar”  with rosewood fretboard, adjustable truss rod, and mahogany body.

Officially licensed by the Nebraska Cornhuskers.  Complete with COA (a.k.a. diploma).

And…it plays pretty darn good for an inexpensive logo’ed instrument.

I paired this with a decent gig bag.  She’s tailgate party ready!!

Trent Litten owned Professional Music Center here in Des Moines.  When I heard of his passing…well…I was in shock.   There are at least 6 guitars in my collection (currently) that I either purchased directly from him, he helped me restore or indirectly came from his shop to me. 

This D-28 is number 7.

“Sometimes innovation is in the details and this is certainly true with Martin’s re-imagined D-28. After nearly a century at the helm, and as the quintessential workhorse of music legends like Hank Williams, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and so many more, Martin's legendary D-28 has been lovingly and artfully enhanced. “The post WWII D-28 had a slightly different look than its predecessor and became the centerpiece of the folk and folk rock movements at their pinnacle in the 1950s and 1960s." says Chris Martin, Chairman and CEO of Martin Guitar, "We have extracted the finest features from the D-28 of both my grandfather’s and my father’s respective eras.” The all new D-28 blends the rich history of the guitar with Martin’s newest and most heralded innovations. The 184 year old guitar maker has combined vintage appointments, including open gear tuners, an aged toner top, antique white accents, and a faux tortoise pickguard with a new neck profile to give D-28 enthusiasts a modern feel and comfortable playing experience. Martin has also added forward-shifted bracing to allow greater vibration of the top. The legend just got better!”                                                                                                  - Willcutt Guitars