1979 Washburn Falcon w/ Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro Humbuckers

Seizing on the success of affordable import guitars in the '60s, Japanese manufacturer Matsumoku produced as many guitars as they could for the '70s and '80s USA guitar market. Much more than worn-out copies of the same old American-made guitars, Matsumoku's designs, features, and various brands introduced new ideas, and the workmanship sincerely rivaled their USA-made counterparts. In today's vintage market, these intriguing—albeit slightly whacky—axes are great-sounding guitars that provide a different, somewhat off-beat inspiration.

Matsumoku started building the Washburn-branded Wing Series in 1978, and the Falcon was part of the core lineup. Featuring a small double-cutaway body, the Falcon is most notable for its through-body neck design. This 1979 Washburn Falcon sports a natural finish that shows off the high-level workmanship, clearing displaying the many pieces of wood that came together to into one seriously cool carved-top guitar. When you flip it over, the contoured neck heel provides a unique access into the upper register. At the time it was made, this carved-out heel would've been unlike anything else you would've seen at the guitar shop–certainly a strong selling point for the Washburn brand!

From there, this Washburn Falcon is equipped with two hot humbuckers that both measure 8.45 k ohms. Three-way switch, volume and tone controls for each pickup, and both can be coil-tapped for a single-coil sound. It's a string-through body, and the six saddle bridge has brass saddles. It has a 1-5/8” nut width and a fast-feeling neck with narrow taper than encourages you to step into the upper register where the unique heel carve makes it easy on you. 

How many pieces of wood went into this guitar? The Flame Maple "wings" on the top are stunning, and the Ash on the underside is dense, providing sustain and richness. The design was probably intended to appeal to hard rock players, but interestingly the Falcon delivers more versatility than similar guitars from the late '70s. In our shop, this guitar gives off serious Jerry Garcia vibes. With the right rig, this Falcon can cover some of the late-'70s Wolf sounds. 

This 1979 Washburn Falcon is in nice shape for its age. The original brass nut has been replaced for better intonation. All of the electronics are fully functional, but the treble tone pot is a little wonky. It still works and cuts treble as you expect, but it feels like the knob will keep turning past each end of the spectrum. Around the body and neck, there is some play wear, especially on the back of the body. There are also some bumps around the edges, especially around the back edge (see photos). The action is excellent, and it includes its original hardshell case, which has a broken buckle.