Released in 1952, the design of the Les Paul undertook some dramatic changes in its first few years. By 1954, the tailpiece was changed from the controversial trapeze design to a wraparound and, possibly more importantly, the angle of the neck was increased in late 53 to improve the action and adjustability of the bridge.

This guitar oozes mojo. The top has crazed and greened so wonderfully and there are signs all over the body that this guitar has been well used. The back too has worn in the places you'd expect and taken on a richer hue. 

The neck has been completely refinished due to a neck break. The repair for which you can see in the pictures. Thankfully the serial number has not been obscured. The fretboard is in good condition with plenty of life left in the newer frets. A new nut has been fitted and other tuners have been present at some stage.

The bridge has been replaced with a compensated example. Plastics are in good condition. 

The electronics there have also been some changes. Both volume pots have been changed though the tone pots and caps are correct. The leads to the switch have also been replaced at some stage. 

The guitar comes with its correct Lifton 4 latch case that seems to have gone through more of a time than the guitar but has at least served its purpose in keeping the guitar in very good shape.

Sonically this guitar is a joy. Both pickups are well balanced and deliver those 50s tones with aplomb. There’s plenty of scope here, from Hairy Fuzzy neck tones through smoother combined sounds to the bitting snarl of the bridge pickup. It will make you question why you need any other guitar in your life.

The look and the tone of this guitar should surely make it a must have in any collection. It probably won’t be here for very long…!