Hofner President Thin 1959 - Brunette

This 1959 Höfner President Thin in Brunette is a well-preserved example from the closing years of the 1950s, representing Höfner’s move toward slimmer-bodied electric guitars while retaining the traditional fully hollow construction the brand was known for. Built in West Germany during a formative period for the company, these late-’50s Presidents sit at an interesting point between earlier archtop designs and the more modern thinlines that followed.

The guitar features a fully hollow laminated body with a comfortable, lightweight feel and a naturally resonant response. Finished in Brunette, it retains the understated, elegant look typical of Höfner’s higher-end models of the period. This example is fitted with two original black-bar pickups, delivering a warm, rounded tone with a clear, woody character that works particularly well for jazz, early electric blues, and vintage pop styles.

Electronics follow Höfner’s period-correct control layout, including the solo/rhythm switch, which on this example produces a noticeable drop in output when engaged — a characteristic commonly found in these circuits. The overall tonal range remains broad and usable, with a soft attack and open response typical of fully hollow German instruments from this era.

Condition is consistent with a well-kept vintage instrument, showing honest age-related wear. The tailpiece has been amended for one string, where the original end had snapped slightly, a practical repair that does not affect functionality. One of the knobs is missing the top cap. The guitar remains structurally sound and retains its distinctive vintage character.

Supplied with a hard case, this is a strong example of a late-1950s Höfner President Thin, offering classic fully hollow tone, period-correct features, and the subtle individuality that comes with a well-used vintage instrument.