1920 Gibson L-3 – £2499

NEW ARRIVAL  Introduced in 1902, the L-3 was Gibson’s finest guitar offering until the L-4 arrived ten years later. The L-3 features a 13 1/2” body, carved Spruce top and Birch back, round soundhole, and lavish trimmings. The L-3 went through several cosmetic changes, and this 1920 model has all the desirable features. The slanted ‘The Gibson’ headstock logo with a beautiful floral inlay below it. Tortoiseshell celluloid elevated pickguard, support, and crosspiece on the tailpiece. 3 on a plate tuners, engraved with flowers and leaves, with fossilised bone buttons. And most obviously a Red Mahogany sunburst finish. Then there’s the bound Ebony fingerboard, and Herringbone rosette. The original tailpiece even has ‘Patented July 19 1910’ stamped on it. This is as much a piece of Gibson history as it is a wonderful guitar. It has a punchy sound, with a warm dryness though the midrange, and a compact and articulate low end. It’s a fun guitar to play 1920’s era raggy-jazzy tunes on, and loves the blues – it cuts through any mix. It’s like playing a piece of history, yet it feels strong enough to gig, has a chunky V profile neck, and easy playing action. The guitar is in great condition for it’s 105 year life, with just one repaired top crack and lots of cool looking lacquer checking. To add to it’s desirability, it even comes in it’s original hard case.