Gibson / L-4 / 1919 / Sunburst / Guitar
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Introduced in 1912, the L-4 was Gibson's finest guitar offering until Lloyd Loar's signed L-5 arrived ten years later. The L-4 features a 16" body, carved top and back, oval soundhole, and lavish trimmings. The guitar has an incredibly unique tone amongst archtops. What is most surprising about the L-4 is its flattop-like bass response with a full and bloomy mid-range pop. It has an open depth and amazing volume -- almost a 3 dimensional tone -- and sounds, not surprisingly, like the popular music of the 1920's and early 1930's. Think Lonnie Johnson, Eddie Lang and the like. This particular example has clearly had quite a life, and several scars to prove it, but then at 102 years old that’s not a huge surprise….. What’s really interesting to me, though, is the original pickguard with it’s tortoiseshell supports are still intact, together with the metal side bars - it really is a piece of engineering. Then there’s the beautiful plum sunburst, oval soundhole with lovely rosette, tortoiseshell tailpiece cross bar, ‘The Gibson’ headstock logo, and fossilised bone tuners. It’s like playing a piece of history, yet it feels strong enough to gig, has a very comfortable feeling, full V profile neck, and comfortable playing action. There are a few crack repairs, all of which are stable. This really is a chance to own a piece of Gibson history - the guitar even comes in it’s original deluxe hard case.
Glenns Guitars, UK 
Welcome to Glenn's Guitars here on Vintage & Rare. After many years in the industry, and having been fortunate enough to have worked in Hanks and The Acoustic Centre - probably London's two foremost acoustic guitar shops - I decided to do my own thing.
I have a passion for used and vintage acoustic guitars; nearly new second hand guitars because they can represent a bargain compared to the price of a new guitar, older and vintage guitars because they tend to have more character and can often become an investment.
You will notice when viewing my stock list my taste in guitars, as I only sell guitars that I genuinely like - and there are certain brands noticeable by their absence. I am a huge fan of older Gibson, Martin and Guild acoustics, but also more boutique brands such as Lowden and Collings.
I will consider part exchange if it makes your desired guitar a little easier to afford. I also offer a guitar finding service, if there's something specific you're looking for.
If you are happy to buy over the internet, I will send you as many high resolution photos and as much information about the guitar you're interested in as I can. If you can get to me - I'm based in Enfield, only 30 minutes from London Liverpool Street Station - you can always make an appointment with me and come and try some of the guitars out first.
I accept payment by Paypal, bank transfer, cheque and of course cash.
