Navigator ESP Kiso Custom Shop CTM-480 Japan

Where do I begin? Navigator is pretty much top-of-the-heap when it comes to MIJ historic type stuff. Absolutely comparable to Gibson Custom or Momose, and better specs than Bacchus, Tokai, Greco, other misc. MIJ etc.

Made in the ESP Kiso factory (2010 approx., one digit of serial is cut off and I'm not super familiar with these), along with the ESP Original Series. Navigators are not sold in the US new, under some agreement with US manufacturers as far as I am aware. It's a shame, 'cause these guitars are excellent!

Highlights? Nitro finish, bone nut, genuine Honduran mahogany, stock Seymour Duncan Seth Lover pickups, ABR-1 type bridge, long tenon, chunky '59 type neck, real ebony fretboard w/ fret nibs, maple cap like a '68 custom, and more. These guitars are roughly $4,000-$5,000 new (converted from Yen), and generally go for $2,000-$2,800 used. Why is mine at such a great price? Lots of aesthetic wear, and unfortunately because it's not a factory "relic" it doesn't improve it's dollar value!

Let me be clear: this guitar has had NO repairs or breaks! It was simply played and played and it shows. Top is decent, only a few paint chips. Back has that characteristic LP rash, and it's not afraid to show it. Some remnants of stickers on back and some odd finish discoloration in direct light. Neck has a noticeable ding that goes through finish, other than that nothing horrible.

Headstock front is similar to top, decent with mild wear and a razor ding that lines up with string; headstock back has much more wear, with plenty of dings around open book area.

Weight is around 9 lbs. Not super heavy, not a Cloud 9. Sounds and plays great! Functioning truss rod. This axe would benefit from a fret dress in the near future, some dents around cowboy chord area.

All original to my knowledge except pickguard and switch tip. Tip does not thread on properly as it is a US imperial part as opposed to metric. Same for pickguard, it fits but top screw does not line up; good luck finding a Navi guard second hand though!  

Overall, the guitar plays, functions, and operates as it should. It can be set up and all the electronics work. It has a road worn vibe that is genuine; some Jap player rocked it before I did! Original case is in acceptable shape; interior is clean but outside shows some honest wear. Bridge and tailpiece have mild oxidation, pickup covers have a little more.

Firm on price; this guitar is amazing and sorta like a '57-'68 LPC hybrid with quality that matches Gibson Custom, but again the aesthetic wear cuts its value. Better condition would be in $2,000 plus territory easy. She's an awesome axe; if you're looking for a road worn LPC that won't break the bank and is incredible quality, this is it. Please take a careful look at ALL pics and ask questions if you must. I've tried to be detailed on the condition. Don't buy unless you're 100%. Thanks! :)