Rare 1973 Framus Strato de Luxe Model 5/168 German Vintage – Jan Akkerman Era Active Upgrade – Fully Serviced!
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from Hamburg, Germany
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For sale is a truly fascinating piece of German guitar history: A Framus Strato de Luxe (Model 5/168) from December 1973 (Serial Number ends in 73L). This instrument was built during the absolute "Golden Era" of the Framus factory in Bubenreuth, Germany.
In the early 1970s, Framus was at the forefront of guitar innovation, collaborating with legends like Jan Akkerman (Focus) and Bill Lawrence. This particular guitar is a testament to that era of experimentation. It features a rare original Framus active preamp circuit, branded with the Framus logo on the PCB, which was typically reserved for the high-end Jan Akkerman and Nashville signature models.
Freshly Serviced & Ready to Play:
This guitar has just undergone a comprehensive professional service to ensure it’s in top playing condition:
Complete Overhaul: The entire guitar has been deep-cleaned and the finish polished.
Fretwork: Frets have been polished to a high shine for smooth bends and a premium feel.
Neck Care: The fretboard has been cleaned and conditioned with high-quality lemon oil.
Hardware: The tuners have been lubricated for smooth operation, and the vintage tremolo system—often stuck on these models—has been fully serviced and is now working perfectly.
New Strings: Restrung with a fresh set of premium strings.
The Setup & Electronics:
Active Heart: Equipped with an authentic 1970s Framus preamp. This board provides incredible headroom and clarity.
Lead Boost: The wiring is configured so that the active boost specifically targets the bridge pickup, turning it into a powerful lead voice at the flip of a switch.
The "Organ" Controls: Features the iconic 3-mini-switch array (individual On/Off for each pickup).
Hardware: Original gold-anodized aluminum "Cockpit" pickguard and the sought-after Framus Roller Bridge.
Condition & Modifications (Transparency):
Battery Compartment: To house the 9V battery for the preamp, a compartment was added to the back of the solid-body. Please note: This routing was done manually and has a "rustic," non-factory finish. It is purely functional and located on the back, so it’s invisible while playing (see detailed photos).
Aesthetics: Honest vintage wear (relic) from over 50 years of life. The neck is straight and the playability is excellent.
About Framus History:
Framus was one of the largest guitar manufacturers in Europe. By 1973, they were pushing boundaries with active electronics and unconventional designs. Owning a 1973 "Strato De Luxe" like this is owning a slice of the innovation that made German guitars famous worldwide.
Shipping:
The guitar will be packed with professional care and FREE EXPRESS PREMIUM SHIPPING to the US
This item is sold As-Described
This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.
| Listed | 3 days ago |
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| Condition | Very Good (Used) Very Good items may show a few slight marks or scratches but are fully functional and in overall great shape.Learn more |
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