1950 Kay Archtop Vintage Sunburst > Guitars Archtop Electric & Acoustic

Description

Here we have a 1950s Kay Archtop which needs some love but could be a very nice guitar with a little TLC. 1 11/16 inch bone nut. Original three-on-a-plate tuners with a couple of slightly bent (but functioning) keys. Adjustable Rosewood bridge and saddle—original, we think.

Action is tolerable in the lower positions but gets progressively higher as you move up the neck. The saddle has been lowered as far as it can go. There is no truss rod and there is too much neck relief, so this guitar would definitely benefit from some attention from a professional luthier. Or if you’re an aspiring luthier, this guitar would be a great project for you.

Why would anyone want to spend money on an old inexpensive archtop like this one? In a word, tone. Strum a few chords on this guitar and you’ll hear warm woody tone unlike the typical mid-rangy chop of most old archtops. A little bit of work and you’d have yourself a great sounding and playing guitar with 1950s vintage charm and mojo. Comes with a newer RoadRunner hardshell case.

DETAILS
Year: 1950s

Make: Kay

Model: Archtop

Serial: L11226838

Finish: Vintage Sunburst

Case: Newer RoadRunner Hardshell Case

Weight: 4 pounds 4 ounces

Condition: Fair (with lots of honest play wear and high action)

Modifications: None

Comments: Old Archtops are just too cool!