~1950 Kay Barney Kessel (K1700) with "Kelvinator" Headstock

Here we have a 1950s Kay Barney Kessel Pro (K1700). This is not the reissue model. This is the real thing. In very good to excellent condition with a few chips and dings, a small patch at the output jack, and some minor finish touch ups. This guitar looks marvelous with its Art Deco “Kelvinator” headstock and signature pickguard.

Basic Specs: Grover Sta-Tite tuners. 1 11/16 inch Bone nut. Maple neck with a 24.5 inch scale length. Neck depth is .80 inches at the first fret and 1.06 inches at the twelfth fret. Bound Rosewood fingerboard with 18 frets which have been professionally replaced. Two original “Kleenex Box” single coil pickups. Adjustable Rosewood bridge with bone saddle. Trapeze tailpiece.

Set up in-house with flatwounds to play and sound its best. A really cool Barney Kessel signature guitar from the 50s. Comes with newer TKL hardshell case.

DETAILS
Year: 1950s

Make: Kay

Model: Barney Kessel Pro (K1700)

Serial: L500 1700 P4

Finish: Sunburst

Case: Newer SKB Hardshell Case

Weight: 5 pounds 13 ounces

Condition: Very Good to Excellent Vintage Condition (with a few small dings and chips and a discretely installed patch at the output jack)

Modifications: Added Bone nut and saddle; professional refret; small patch around output jack; minor finish touchups

Comments: This guitar had me with its "Kelvinator" headstock alone.