Abalone Vintage

Vintage Guitars | Rare Guitars | Unique Guitars | Celebrity Guitars

79 thoughts on “Abalone Vintage”

  1. Empire State Guitar-L. Viohl
    Wattspjr

    I have found a guitar with ("Empire State Guitar" by L. Viohl) on a label inside it. Where can I go to find some info about it? When made?…by whom?….etc. Does it have any value? You know the general stuff… Any help would be greatly appreciated.
    Please e-mail anything youy can tell me.
    Thanks,
    Wattspjr

    1. Empire State Guitar - L. Viohl
      Anonymous

      L. Viohl was my Great-Grandfather. He came to the United States in the late 1860’s and lived in Manhattan. Eventually, he moved his family out to the “country” (Flushing, Queens) where they had their workshop. His sons, Louis Jr, and August, worked with him. They made guitars, ukeleles, violins, zithers, and other musical instruments. I am sorry I can’t help you with the value.

      1. Empire Guitars
        C Noto

        Louis Viohl was also my great-grandfather. His son, August, was my grandfather. I have old photos of the Empire workshop in Flushing, a ukelele and one of their parlor guitars.

    2. Re: Empire State Guitar-L. Viohl
      Strat

      : I have found a guitar with ("Empire State Guitar" by L. Viohl) on a label inside it. Where can I go to find some info about it? When made?…by whom?….etc. Does it have any value? You know the general stuff… Any help would be greatly appreciated.
      : Please e-mail anything youy can tell me.
      : Thanks,
      :Strat

  2. goya guitar
    oldguitarnut

    I have a goya rangemaster hollow body around the years of 1962-1965. Model number on plate(bak of neck)is n5138,are there anyothere serial numbers on this guitar and if so, where would I look for it at. It has split dual humbucker pickups,but, I’m not able to tell if it has paf pickups. I would like alittle help with determining if this is a rare guitar and what it worth would be.

  3. Dobro 30's
    Kjeld Olsen

    Looking for a vintage Dobro (on decal) wood body from the 30’s (could be a model 27 or similar). In a playable condition. All parts original. Can anyone help?

    Best Kello

  4. american fender strat
    em emm

    from the steel wheels signatures of all band members. would like to sell but would like to hear an offer taht is even close to its’ worth.
    do your homework make an offer. you could get lucky.

  5. Selmer made Combo Classical guitar
    Steven

    I have a Selmer Model – Combo made in the USA and am looking for info on serialization in order to determine when it was built and estimate its value. I see that others have the same guitar I do, and have had no luck in finding info as of 2006. Has anyone had any luck since then. What issue of TIME magazine was the article in? Some one has got to know these things. Please help.

  6. Arbiter SG clone
    Stuart

    Hi, I am looking for info on a 70’s SG clone by Arbiter. Mine had gold plated metalwork and a standard finish – I would like another!
    Thanks
    Stu

    1. Re: Arbiter SG clone
      Kierz

      : Hi, I am looking for info on a 70’s SG clone by Arbiter. Mine had gold plated metalwork and a standard finish – I would like another!
      : Thanks
      : Stu
      Hi, i happen to own an arbiter sg clone

      this particular version has 21 frets with a single coil pickup at the neck. the logo has faded and the tuners have been replaced. it has a metallic blue finish and a fixed bridge

  7. univox guitar
    Doug Brasel

    I have a white univox six string electric guitar. it has two dials and something that effects the tightness of the strings when playing. is this guitar worth anything?

    1. Re: univox guitar
      Swedish chef

      I guess you sold it already but if it’s kind of a funny shape, almost back to front looking it might be worth a good sum. Is the front pickup at a kind of slant>

  8. selling an epiphone model of a gibson sg.
    william sanchez

    The guitar is about a year old and is in very good condition. There are scrathes on the pick guard which is normal but the neck does need to be adjusted. The only reason why I am trying to sell this guitar is because I have my eye on a few other guitars. So if your interested contact me at [email protected] for questions and pricie on the guitar.

  9. selling an epiphone model of a gibson sg.
    william sanchez

    The guitar is about a year old and is in very good condition. There are scrathes on the pick guard which is normal but the neck does need to be adjusted. The only reason why I am trying to sell this guitar is because I have my eye on a few other guitars. So if your interested contact me at [email protected] for questions and pricie on the guitar.

  10. univox
    dylan forde

    help. i have a univox but i have no idea what type it is. it is black with an unusual headstock for a univox. 2 unknown ( 2 me ) pickups and the standard switch to convert from front to back pickups. if u even have the slightest idea what the guitar is let me know !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  11. UNIVOX Custom
    Steve Hampton

    I have a starburst, red whine colored, bass that I bought back in college in 1966. I am trying to place a value on something like this and wondering if there is anybody with knowledge of prices of these things? 4 string, 2 pick up UNIVOX is in an older box font, and the custom is in script..its a hollow body with music lyres cut in the face, top and bottom. 3 knob sound controls, and a flip type switch on the bottom. Thanks in advance for any help. Steve

  12. worn guitar...
    audrey

    Hello I want to have some informations on UniVox guitar,I want to buy one worn,for 80$…Is it good?It’s my first electric guitar,normaly I play with an accoustic one…

    Thanks

    1. Re: i have a les paul vintage copy
      Mitchell,D

      : all it has is mestminster on top and the plate has made in japan first three #008 on plate anyone know any info?????

      :I have a Les Paul (copy)..Univox…Bought it after my Hi-Flier was stolen…It is wine coloured with no number on the neck plate….It is original down to the slight scraches……E-mail me If you would like to compare.

    2. Re: i have a les paul vintage copy
      emu

      Hi

      Westminster – sub-brand of Greco guitars. Made at the Matsumoku factory in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Chubu Province, Japan.

      Plate indicates 1970 – was about 30000 yen new. should be a good instrument – resale value not very high. Made for the Japanese domestic market- the early ones (pre 1972) are the best. production stopped in 1978 (started in 1970)…

      bye
      Emu

      : all it has is mestminster on top and the plate has made in japan first three #008 on plate anyone know any info?????

    1. Re: selmer made
      Ryan Boiselle

      : I HAVE AN OLD ACOUSTIC GUITAR I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON. ON THE INSIDE OF THE BODY IS A LABEL THAT SAY’S "MADE FOR SELMER IN KOREA". THE NAME OF THE GUITAR IS "COMBO". WHICH IS ON THE LABEL AND ALSO ON THE HEAD. I HAVEN’T HAD ANY LUCK ON THE NET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFO, PLEASE E-MAIL ME THANKS!

      During this last summer, I bought a Combo guitar at a flea market for 60 dollars. I am in a guitar class at my school. My friends and even my teacher have told me that the action is high on the guitar. I have searched all over the inside and out of the instrument and I cannot find the screw that adjusts the action. I have searched online and have not found anywhere any information about Combo. All I know is that it is made by Selmer and the model # on the inside is also GS10. If anyone can give me any information, it would be greatly appreciated. End if anyone can tell me where the action screw is, that would also be greatly appreciated. You can email me at [email protected]. Thank you.

    2. Re: selmer made
      Jimmy

      : I HAVE AN OLD ACOUSTIC GUITAR I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON. ON THE INSIDE OF THE BODY IS A LABEL THAT SAY’S "MADE FOR SELMER IN KOREA". THE NAME OF THE GUITAR IS "COMBO". WHICH IS ON THE LABEL AND ALSO ON THE HEAD. I HAVEN’T HAD ANY LUCK ON THE NET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFO, PLEASE E-MAIL ME THANKS!

      I have same thing but model number GS12. The pegs are really loose and won’t stay in tune. I dunno if it’s worth a lot or anything. There’s no info anywhere.

    3. Re: selmer made
      Joe

      : I HAVE AN OLD ACOUSTIC GUITAR I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON. ON THE INSIDE OF THE BODY IS A LABEL THAT SAY’S "MADE FOR SELMER IN KOREA". THE NAME OF THE GUITAR IS "COMBO". WHICH IS ON THE LABEL AND ALSO ON THE HEAD. I HAVEN’T HAD ANY LUCK ON THE NET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFO, PLEASE E-MAIL ME THANKS!

      I have looked for mine also to no avail. Mine is from the 60’s and was made in Indiana-USA. I know it’s now Conn-Selmer, but they have no information, so I can save you on that one. Write to me and tommorow I will check it out better. I’m at a library now and they are closing.

      One was in a 1999 Time Magizine that some Jazz guy loved and he paid $5K for it. They sound great. Mine is solid maple/spruce top and back, mahogony sides and neck. Ebony fingerboard, but the ‘thin’ alabaster finger marks are missing. The sound is sweet and it only plays well with the D’ Adaro J 43 D’Arte’ strings. Don’t waste your money on anything else if it’s a classical. They are ‘extra light’ stings and sound ‘sweet and soft’. Hard strings are difficult to maintiain tune on this unit and takes away from the true ‘ring’ of the body.

      I’m looking for tuners for mine, but wanted orginials……can’t even find the darn guitar.

    4. Re: selmer made
      Tom Quertinmont

      : I HAVE AN OLD ACOUSTIC GUITAR I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON. ON THE INSIDE OF THE BODY IS A LABEL THAT SAY’S "MADE FOR SELMER IN KOREA". THE NAME OF THE GUITAR IS "COMBO". WHICH IS ON THE LABEL AND ALSO ON THE HEAD. I HAVEN’T HAD ANY LUCK ON THE NET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFO, PLEASE E-MAIL ME THANKS!

      My guitar is the same as discribed…also has a model number GS10. I also would like some info on the instrument.

      1. Re: selmer made
        Rachel

        : : I HAVE AN OLD ACOUSTIC GUITAR I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON. ON THE INSIDE OF THE BODY IS A LABEL THAT SAY’S "MADE FOR SELMER IN KOREA". THE NAME OF THE GUITAR IS "COMBO". WHICH IS ON THE LABEL AND ALSO ON THE HEAD. I HAVEN’T HAD ANY LUCK ON THE NET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFO, PLEASE E-MAIL ME THANKS!

        : My guitar is the same as discribed…also has a model number GS10. I also would like some info on the instrument.

        : Mine is exactly like what you guys are describing! Also the prefix of my serial number is in the 740’s with 5 digits after that (if that means anything..) I can’t find any pictures or information on it either. It definitely doesn’t have the Selmer style D-hole, which is all I’ve been able to find pictures of on the net. It’s really too bad, I want to know what year my guitar was made in because it was my mom’s in the late 60’s or 70’s

    5. Re: selmer made
      Tom Quertinmont

      : I HAVE AN OLD ACOUSTIC GUITAR I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON. ON THE INSIDE OF THE BODY IS A LABEL THAT SAY’S "MADE FOR SELMER IN KOREA". THE NAME OF THE GUITAR IS "COMBO". WHICH IS ON THE LABEL AND ALSO ON THE HEAD. I HAVEN’T HAD ANY LUCK ON THE NET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFO, PLEASE E-MAIL ME THANKS!

    6. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... JODY GEORGE
      JODY GEORGE

      I HAVE AN OLD ACOUSTIC GUITAR I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON. ON THE INSIDE OF THE BODY IS A LABEL THAT SAY’S "MADE FOR SELMER IN KOREA". THE NAME OF THE GUITAR IS "COMBO". WHICH IS ON THE LABEL AND ALSO ON THE HEAD. I HAVEN’T HAD ANY LUCK ON THE NET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFO, PLEASE E-MAIL ME THANKS!

      1. Selmer combo guitarM
        Art

        I have selmer combo model 8428 made in Indiana isa. Model look be made 1984 by model number Im reading here that these made in Indiana USA are made in 1960s early 70s it in very good condition what kind value am looking at. Hope somebody can help me

      2. Combo (for Selmer/Korea) GS10 acoustic guitar
        Anonymous

        Just scoffed one up at an auction for $45.00, with what appears to be the original chipboard/hard case. Might be, too, because this guitar is in amazing condition for a 1974 model. And that’s how I believe the Serial Number works; first two digits being the Year of Manufacture (don’t know significance of rest of numbers, but likely production oriented). Mine is a Spruce Laminated Top. Way to tell is look at the edge of sound hole. If it has a grain, then you have a SOLID top. Mine is clearly Laminate as the Spruce serves as a sandwich (top & bottom) for the “filler”, which is some type of composite/particle. This GS10 also has high action, but that can be fixed at Bridge. Ill-advised to mess with the Truss Rod (just above Nut at Headstock), as you could break it, then the guitar is pretty much worthless. They aren’t worth a fortune in excellent condition, so best avoid any unnecessary Truss Rod adjustments. Hey, it is what it is; a kick-around, campfire, beach blanket bingo, sleazy motel room, parlor guitar. Think of it this way, you won’t be on the bridge, ready to end it all, if/when it gets stolen.

        1. Pretty sure you're right
          Anonymous

          Pretty sure you’re right about the serial number. The first two numbers on the label inside my Combo guitar are 74, Model # GC40. I bought it in 1974 for $70-something, and a musician friend told me then that it was a decent starter guitar for my senior year elective guitar class. In 1974, on a waitress’s salary plus tips, it took me a week’s worth of full-time summer work to pay for it. Now, at today’s minimum wage, (depending on where you live) I think a week’s worth of pay could get you a much better guitar comparably. I guess inflation doesn’t necessarily apply to musical instruments. Anyway, 45 years later, it still sounds sweet and mellow. The action is a bit high on the sound hole end of the neck, and someone told me that the neck was slightly bowed. After being stored in the heat of our barn loft for 15 years, I’m not surprised. Am taking it to the local music store to see if they can shave a little off the bridge and lower the action enough to make it easier to play. My son is hoping to learn to play this summer and wants a simple nylon string guitar to learn on and one he won’t have to worry about getting dinked up. This one is perfect for that, and since it also has a softer sound, he won’t have to worry about disturbing the neighbors in his apartment complex. Yes, a kick-around, campfire guitar for sure, with a little sentimental value thrown in.

      3. Combo guitar by Selmer made in USA
        Ejbpesca

        I was just given this little cool guitar. Model 8453 Combo. It is in rough shape but I’m taking it to a shop today for some fix up. It reminds me of my first guitar in 1958. I wonder if it is of any value outside of seeming to be a fairly well made extremely light guitar. It has metal strings but I will maybe put nylon on it for students with tender fingers. Anyone know anything about these guitars?

      4. I was just given a GC40 model, old beautiful sounding classical. Serial # starts 740 as well. I love it. Never seen one before, and info seems to be limited.

      5. Selmer-Combo #8459
        matt

        My friend gave me a selmer-combo guitar, and so far its a pretty good guitar. I was wondering if its worth any thing, or just any basic facts. The model # is 8459. If any one knows anything please reply. Thanks.

        1. 8432 selmer combo
          Anonymous

          We were cleaning out our basement and found my father 8432 selmer combo, as we’re wondering if it worth anything. We have no need for it anymore.

          Thank you.

  13. WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
    Hollis Bailey

    hello, I was wondering if anyone knows anything about a Westminster strat copy it has the large mid 60’s fender style headstock, three color sunburst and three single coils p-u’s. the pickguard is a nicely aged white and it says it was made in japan but I thought these were british is it a half decent guitar for 115$ Canadian?

    Also I was wondering if anyone could give me any info or leads on Pan guitars, thanks…

    1. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
      sans

      hi: I own a westminster 1972 thinline telacaster copy. I think I gave $150 for it 4 years ago in a little rock pawn shop. It feels, plays and sound great. I don’t know what year it is. on the neck plate on back says matsumoku and a serial number and made in Japan. If anyone could tell me how much it’s value really is or even the actual year made would be nice. thanks

      1. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
        aaron

        the most I have been able to find about PAN guitars is that they were made in the 50’s in japan by aria/matsumoku they also produced univox,lyle,maxi-tone,conrad,domino and arita
        around that time

        I have a pan SG knock off that looks exactly like a SG copy I saw that was made by Lyle

      2. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
        John Dancy

        :Hi, I have a Westminster model # 044199, made in Japan. It’s black laquer finished. All white trim with polished frets, rosewood and pearl inlaid under the strings.(6) I would like some info is I could and would greatly appreciate it, thanks, John

        1. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
          heidi

          i would like any info i can get on how i can find a pan guitar acoustic i think they were made in japan in the 1950 and 60’s mine was stole a few weeks ago ive had it for seventeen years so im on the look do you know appreciate it, thanks, heidi

      3. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
        Randy Hill

        I have a Westminster Les Paul which I purchased brand new in 1974. The entire guitar is mahogany with natural finish. It is far superior to any Les Paul I have ever played.The tone and overall playability is phenominal. I have been searching for info on this long discontinued brand and this is the first time I have ever seen anyone even mention the name Westminster. Godd luck

        1. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
          brandon

          i bought a near mint condition 70’s westminster les paul last week. black with gold hardware. it sounded good but the action was a little tough.took to local guitar luthier/repair shop. replaced the bridge pu with a seymour duncan jb model humbucker. and the neck with a seymour duncan 69 model humbucker.( as was recommended by shop.) they also did a set up, put on ping tuners(similar to grovers) and adjusted the action. this guitar now plays and sounds just as good as any les paul i have ever heard. total cost to me after pu’s, set up ,tuners and guitar purchase price ($250)for a grand total to me of $600 awesome hand finished japanese masterpiece. if you see one cheap fix it up.

        2. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
          warren(g)

          : I have a Westminster Les Paul which I purchased in a pawn shop in Oklahoma City six months ago.I also have been trying to locate info on this mahogany masterpeice.It has the hottest zebra humbuckers I have ever heard and the overall perforamce is unmatched by the real deal.This is a right hand model and I am left handed.I played it for awhile upside down but have converted it to left handed.So far this guy (brand) is a mystery??????? it does have a serial number.I am a former owner of a 1978 Les Paul Custom.

        3. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
          warren(g)

          : I have a Westminster Les Paul which I purchased in a pawn shop in Oklahoma City six months ago.I also have been trying to locate info on this mahogany masterpeice.It has the hottest zebra humbuckers I have ever heard and the overall perforamce is unmatched by the real deal.This is a right hand model and I am left handed.I played it fot awhile upside down but have converted it to left handed.So far this guy (brand) is a mystery??????? it does have a serial number.I am a former owner of a 1978 Les Paul Custom.

          1. Re: zebra humbuckers
            Fyl

            Those semi-covered zebras are real interesting stuff.

            Turns out they’re Maxon Super 70’s, those highly collectible AlNiCo 8 PAF’s that Ibanez put in a whole bunch of stuff, including that old Destroyer of EVH fame. They’re wound like classic ~8kOhm PAFs (mine read 7.92), but have a rare AlNiCo8 magnet that gives them output comparable to Super Distortions and JBs.

            What throws everyone off is that Ibanez claimed it was an Ibanez-exclusive innovative humbucker only to be found on Ibanezes… BUT, because the same guitars from the Ibanez catalog in the mid 70’s were also sold rebadged under the Westminster and Greco names, they have the same pups.

            Afaik, they were made by Matsumoku at a time when Ibanez was switching to FujiGen and Greco also to somewhere else. Possibly, the entire brand was created to put a different name on guitars built on those lines whose production capacity was freed up by Greco & Ibanez switching to another manufacturer.

            Most (all?) Westminster models are essentially rebadged Ibanez and Greco products.

        4. Re: WestMinster Strat copies, and Pan(univox) guitars
          Dean

          I have a Westminster acoustic model 150, made in Japan. I bought it used for $85 and love it! I have never seen or heard the name anywhere until I read this message thread. Sounds like they made good quality stuff while still around.

      4. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... don
        don

        : hello, I was wondering if anyone knows anything about a Westminster strat copy it has the large mid 60’s fender style headstock, three color sunburst and three single coils p-u’s. the pickguard is a nicely aged white and it says it was made in japan but I thought these were british is it a half decent guitar for 115$ Canadian?

        : Also I was wondering if anyone could give me any info or leads on Pan guitars, thanks…

        Reply: The westminster,does it have big polished frets
        and taller than stock (fender stock,that is)alnico pick-ups?
        A really heavy 7 piece ash body? Those were Veneman Store/
        BRADLEY ‘S… from around late 70’s/early 80’s made in
        japan to Ted Veneman’s personal specs!And I like mine
        better than any Fender I have ever owned or played.
        Luck may get you one for the price of 2 cases of beer,
        I would not take the price of several houses for mine.
        Happy hunting and don’t get there before I do,cos’ I’m
        looking for more of them!

        1. Got me an Westminster LP,
          Fyl

          Got me an Westminster LP, transparent cherry or tobacco finish, MAPLE fretboard bolton neck 3pc w black inlays , really hot n dirty zebra humbuckers w different polepieces screws one side flat on other (7.49 kOhm, but loud!), strange but solid two-screw-mounted tuners with a logo that’s like an arrow twisting around to point at its origin (slightly rustflecked steel), frets silver color but with a hint of greening bronze… Japan, seemingly 70s, looks to be Matsumoku made.

          Heavy. Neckplate says steel adjustable neck, japan.

          She’s a beauty, except the yellowish brand name and faded black headstock.

          Sound is pure old rock or dirty blues. She’s great. Got her, w typical matsumoku orange plush les Paul hard case, for $120. Owner died, family selling off his “junk”

          No complaints except pots are falling apart sticking or dying with age (20 bucks to fix, no biggie for a 40yo guitar)

          Anybody know what these zebra humbuckers are?

  14. Schwinn Guitar
    Paul

    I found a Schwinn guitar. It has a sort of Fender body style and needs a little work. It has the classic Schwinn cross logo (like on the bicycles) and says "made in Chicago" I’ve never heard of a Schwinn guitar. Can anyone tell me about it? Any info would be welcome.
    THANKS!

  15. Fender electric lap top steel string
    natalia

    how much is this worth , what if anything can i sell it for?very nice used to belong to prolific bluegrass musician who died…let me kmow if you have any in put, thanks

    1. Re: Fender electric lap top steel string
      william sanchez

      The guitar you have is actually just called a lap steel guitar there is no top in the title. But to anwser your question, new, those guitars are sold around $250-$300 range. Since your guitar is used you could probably get something around the $200 mark.

      p.s. E-mail me if you plan on selling it I plan on learning to play the lap steel.

    1. Re: ES-335
      Chuck Viohl

      :I have a website & deal in New, Used & Vintage Guitars.
      P;ease get back to ne about posting your Guitar.
      Please include the year and color , any other specifics about the instrument.
      I also collect guitars so it’s possible I might be peresonally interested.
      I presently have 3 ES-335’s
      Look Forwars to hearing from you !
      Include photo’s if possible !

  16. Vintage Accoustic Classical Guitar - The Selmer Company (Model = COMBO)
    don perreault

    I am trying to find out something about this Guitar. The Label on the inside of the sound hole reads: The Selmer Company with model No., states to use gut or nylon strings, etc. Does anyone know anything about this Guitar? I know Selmer only made Guitars from 1932 – 1952 but thats about all I know.

    Thanks

    Don

    1. Re: MY GUITARS
      JOHN LAPOINT

      : I NEED TO KNOW HOW TO GET MY GUITAR APPRAISED IF YOU CAN DO IT LET ME KNOW IF NOT CAN YOU GIVE ME WEB SITES THAT I CAN

      I HAVE A 1989 KRAMER STRICKER 300ST

    1. Re: '61 Kay Jazz II
      Hollis bailey

      : I’m looking for the following for a ’61 Kay Jazz II:
      : 1. Pickguard and brackets
      : 2. (2) Pickup surrounds
      : 3. Bigsby arm
      : Thanks for any help and/or advise

      you should try Music treasures in Toronto, ON. Canada
      : Regards,
      : Randy Carone
      : [email protected]
      : 609-397-1984

Leave a Reply