1959 Magnatone Mark VIII

It's not often you get a chance to glimpse a guitar with as many unique design features as this little number here.  This '59-'60 Magnatone Mark VIII was designed by the distinctive designer, Mr. Paul Barth.  Paul Barth also designed the early Rickenbacker Tulip and Crestwave designed guitars, and this guitar has much of that DNA and feel to it both in looks and sound (although many say these pickups are actually closer to early Paul Bigsby style tonality, the preceeding entries in the Mark series for Magnatone having been designed by Bigsby himself).  The neck on this instrument is an absolute joy to play, set very straight (just a slight amount of relief), the frets are in absolutely wonderful shape.  Beautifully grained Brazilian fretboard, unique neck bolt system having two main bolts on the outside (one in the tongue on the inside under the guard).  The bridge is very reminiscent in design of a Rickenbacker style with the notable exception of it's adjustable Rosewood saddles (find those on anything else).  This guitar also sports it's original Kluson tuning machines in great functional shape.  As for balance, plays wonderfully both sitting down and on a strap, and is light as a feather due to it's unique chambered semi-hollow birch body, giving it the distinctive feel and tonality of a lovechild between a Rickenbacker 450 and a Danelectro U2.  The finish shows the telltale heavy checking that is so incredibly prevalent on these Magnatone instruments, this one happens to be in relatively good shape with a majority of the finish remaining.  The only piece missing is the oft cast aside ashtray bridge cover.  Structurally and playability wise this guitar is an absolute joy.  Fantastic addition to a collection of the venerated Magnatone instruments, far more affordable than the preceeding Bigsby designed Mark series, no less a quality instrument than those pieces and steadily gaining in their own value, renown, and reputation.  Don't slip, at this price it's the perfect way to get your hands on a fantastic example of these low production instruments.  It is the Holidays, feel free to make offers, if the spirit strikes me you may get a special holiday deal.  Merry Christmas everyone, COME AND GET IT!