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I occasionally like to import something a
little different from Japan, and Fender Japan are far from being the only
company there producing superb guitars. Here is an interesting example, Greco's
version of Gibson's ES175.
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This is were I normally put the 'tech
spec' box... but the thing about importing slightly unusual
instruments is that technical specifications are hard to come by.
First, we know that Greco was one of
the major copyist companies, producing an enormous range of
instruments based on famous designs.. Gibson, and Fender in
particular. The company's guitars have become collectable in Japan
and elsewhere. This, fairly obviously, is its take on Gibson's full-bodied ES175. When
you click on the above thumbnails you will not believe that this
instrument was made around thirty years ago. Condition is excellent. There
are only a handful of imperfections (photographed above), there are
years of wear left in the frets and all controls work as intended and without noise. It
was clear from the surface dirt and tarnished frets that this guitar
just hadn't been used much in recent years. It's been cleaned,
polished, lemon-oiled and set up with 10s.
There is no serial on this guitar so
I cannot date it exactly. However, prior to the
mid-seventies the Greco logo looked like 'Gneco' as it does on the
headstock.
and there were no serial numbers! So that is presumably the period
that this instrument comes from, despite its excellent condition.
I've found an old case to go with
this guitar, but it will be packed very well.
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Comments |
So what's like? Regular readers
might know that I have a thing for semi-acoustics. The big-bodied
ones like this and my beloved Gretsches may not be as
convenient to play as Strats and Teles, but you know you got a
guitar in your hands when you pick one up. This one just confirms
my love of the semi. Acoustically
it is quite loud with good sustain, but these types really come
alive when you plug them in. It
has a lovely woody tone, smooth and full. But don't kid yourself
these things are just for jazz; drive it and it turns into a
monster. Steve Howe of Yes played an ES175 and Jeff Beck used one
on his 'Rock 'n' Roll Party' - which I
recommend highly by the way. I've put a new set of 10s on and it
plays beautifully right up the neck. If
you want something a little different that'll still knock your
socks off tonally, this could well be it. Oh, and did I mention
that these vintage Grecos are climbing in price? Better than money
in the bank... but what isn't?
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Price :
£650.00 with case |
Contact me on 01992 523138 or by email
I suggest shipping via the Royal Mail's
Special Delivery service which guarantees next day before noon delivery
and includes insurance for £25.00.
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