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1968 Kustom K200 Vintage Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar Wineburst USA w/ohsc

Estimated price for orientation: 1 349 $

Category: Electric Guitars
Class:











Description
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States Brand: Kustom
Exact Year: 1968 MPN: Does Not Apply
Dexterity: Right-Handed Items Included: Case
Body Type: Semi-Hollow Type: Electric Guitar
Model: K200 Body Color: Wineburst
String Configuration: 6 String UPC: Does not apply


Up for sale, a 1968 Kustom K200 with a unique and original Winburst finish. This well loved vintage guitar comes from a brief moment in history where the Kustom company manufactured guitars, and this model was only available from 1968-69. 100% original and sporting a pair of DeArmond single coil pickups, the K200 has vaguely Rickenbacker inspired looks and an array of tones from jangle and snap in the bridge position to greater warmth and detail at the neck. The guitar weighs in at only 7lbs 2oz. Professionally setup here at Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar, this K200 has great action, accurate intonation, and fresh 10-46 strings.The genesis of the K200 design is an interesting one, and the man responsible originally worked for Wurlitzer crafting their electric guitar line. Wurlitzer subcontracted their guitar line through Kansas manufacturer Holman-Woodell, and one of the designers at this shop was Doyle Reading, a shop teacher and woodworker. In '67 he was offered a job by Kustom president Bud Ross, and went on to deliver the K200 the subsequent year!
The slender maple neck has a very fast feel, and most of the original finish has been worn down to the smooth, bare wood. The bound rosewood fretboard features the original slender fretwire and the frets have been leveled and crowned in the guitar's lifetime, currently showing only light, uniform wear on frets 1-4, with fainter flattening of the crowns until roughly fret 8. The guitar plays cleanly in all positions, the truss rod is responsive, and the action stays low and comfortable all the way up the neck. The guitar also features a zero fret and metal nut that measures 1 9/16" in width. On the headstock, the stock Kluson double line tuning machines turn smoothly and hold pitch as they should.All of the electronics work as they should, with untouched solder joints, original tone caps, and CTS pots that date back to the 49th week of 1966. The original hardware is all accounted for as well including the original chrome bridge, Rickenbacker-style Volume/Tone knobs, and trapeze tailpiece. Visible through the catseye F hole, the original Kustom label is intact noting the model and early serial number.Cosmetically, this guitar shows signs of being lovingly played for decades, and the Wineburst finish shows notable yellowing of the clearcoat. Under the pickguard, the more blueish hue of the center of the burst is retained, punctuating how cool and greened out the burst is today. There is fine horizontal lacquer checking across the entire body, as well as wear down to the bare wood on the treble side edge of the pick path. The edges of the body and back in particular show an assortment of small nicks and chips, as well as one spot of buckle rash. Present beneath the original floating trapeze tailpiece, there are also a few tiny screw holes of unknown origin on the top, highlighted by the included close-up photo. Structurally, the guitar is in great shape and a very solid instrument that can stand up to rigorous use with zero cracks or repairs of any kind. It's just the kind of unique, well loved guitar that feels instantly familiar and intuitive when you pick it up.The original form-fit Kustom branded hardshell case is included and in fantastic shape with the original badge, handle, and working latches.

Please check out our shop "Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar" on the web, and feel free to call us directly with any questions at 206.399.8518.Shipping in the continental USA will be $60, fully insured and shipped via FedEx Ground. Expedited shipping available for an additional fee at buyer's request. We will happily ship WORLDWIDE, but please contact us for an accurate international shipping quote before bidding or buying, as cost varies by buyer location.
International orders will be declared as “merchandise,” and the value of merchandise will be declared as the amount paid. We cannot declare anything as a gift or for a lesser value. No exceptions! The customer is responsible for all taxes and duty, which may be collected upon delivery, as well as any additional charges involved with import.We do our best to describe all items with honesty and accuracy, but to be sure, please contact us with any questions or concerns prior to bidding or buying. We require payment within 48 hours of auction end. In the unlikely event of a return, buyer pays all shipping costs. Your positive feedback and five star ratings are very important to us, and we appreciate your communication in resolving any issues!