Gibson F5-L Master Model mandolins were the top of the line, crafted to closely match the brilliant instruments of the Lloyd Loar models of the early '20's.
I've owned this instrument since 2003. It has remained in my non-smoking music studio all those years, never gigged with (though recorded periodically in that studio).
The tuners were replaced soon after I got it as the buttons on the original tuners were cracked and unusable. The original tailpiece has a split in it, so it was replaced with a contemporary tailpiece. The original bracket and "The Gibson" engraved tailpiece cover are included in this sale.
I had an abalone truss rod cover made with my name engraved on it. I've inverted that cover (with my name facing the headstock) - I think the abalone looks great against the fern inlay. Also enclosed is a plain black metal truss rod cover if you prefer.
In 2014, master luthier and instrument maker Lynn Dudenbostel made repairs on this mandolin. Lynn replaced the pickguard (the original was outgassing nitric acid fumes) using the old bracket, repaired and re-lacquered the points and protectors, adjusted the nut, lubricated the tuners, re-notched the replacement saddle, set the intonation, and cleaned the frets. The attached video was made soon after Lynn returned the mandolin to me. Lynn is the best!
The mandolin weighs 2 lbs, 13 oz. Remarkably light.
The deep bark and woody tone is a testament to Gibson's craftspeople. It's aged beautifully and plays great.
Included is the original factory warranty card, the original purchase receipt ($2499!), original hard shell case, latigo leather strap, original saddle, spare tailpiece bracket, and a wonderful Shatten VVM bridge pickup (shown in photos).
