Epiphone / 1951 DELUXE
A legendary acoustic archtop guitar from Epiphone's original New York era has arrived.
This is the "Deluxe" model, the luxury model following the "Emperor".
While typically designed with a slightly narrower 17 3/8-inch body width compared to the "Emperor,"
this particular instrument is a special example crafted with the same 18 1/2-inch width as the "Emperor."
Examining the 1953 catalog,
this size was listed in the lineup, suggesting it was a specification available only for an extremely brief period in the early 1950s.
The exceptional craftsmanship of New York artisans, rivalling Gibson in the history of archtop guitars.
The hand-carved body features spruce with a brilliant blonde finish and maple showcasing beautiful figured grain.
Antique-style gold hardware, combined with a pickguard (replaced) featuring a striking pearl pattern, creates a luxurious visual appearance worthy of the Deluxe name.
The fingerboard is crafted from carefully selected rosewood, beautifully complemented by exquisite mother-of-pearl inlays.
The Epsilon tuners, featuring the distinctive E logo on the headstock, are highly sought-after premium components. These were also used at the Kalamazoo factory following Gibson's acquisition.
Its sound, described as "producing a harp-like tone,"
possesses a lustrous, sparkling brilliance, accompanied by deep, captivating bass tones.
It offers a truly persuasive sound, embodying luxury itself.
A magnificent guitar that embodies the soul of the craftsman and the very history of archtop guitars.
A truly unique and moving experience awaits.
[Staff Comment: Inoue]

As an Epiphone archtop guitar from before Gibson's acquisition, it carries a sense of history. It undoubtedly served as a major inspiration for Martin and Gibson within the acoustic guitar field. A luxury model from that era. Its elegant, beautiful presence and deep tone rich in natural reverb are truly exceptional.
[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Maple
NECK: Maple / Hardwood 3 Piece
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Rosewood
SCALE: 648mm
NUT-WIDTH: 44mm
CASE: Original Hard Shell Case
※Consignment Item
[Repair/Modification History/Replaced Parts/Appearance Condition, etc.]
※As this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection.
Please understand this in advance.
- Three cracks on the body top and two on the body back were present but have been repaired with adhesive by our shop and pose no issues for use.
- Pickguard replaced
- Tuning machine screws replaced
- Fingerboard shell binding replaced/repaired starting from the 15th fret on the 1st string side
[Playing Condition]
- String height at 12th fret: 6th string side 2.2mm, 1st string side 1.8mm
- The saddle is already set at its lowest position. Further lowering the string height would require neck angle adjustment.
The neck features a soft V-shape with a pleasant thickness. Even in its current state, it offers a soft touch and a stress-free playing feel. Considering its age of over 70 years, its playing condition is remarkably good.
[Warranty Information]
As this is a consignment item, no adjustment warranty is included.
Of course, after purchase, we are happy to discuss adjustments, repairs, etc. (for a fee) upon request.
This item is not eligible for our mail-order trial service. (No returns accepted)