cmatthes

The headstock is the same shape as the one in the '95 catalog, if you have seen that. That is a little wider than on the 4-digit models, because the narrower style is apparently very prone to breakage (I know - I've owned 2 broken ones and seen many more!!). I could remove the signature for an additional $25, or you could do it yourself in a matter of minutes (just ask Saxon how to do it!). The reason I'd charge to do this is stupid, maybe, but twofold - I am not a believer that a signed instrument should cost any more than an unautographed one, and secondly, when Rick signed that guitar, I promised him that if and when I ever sold it, I would not profit off of his signature.

Kilroy, you DO have fancy pants. You just wear them on the INSIDE.

Pics have been sent to all who have requested them or who couldn't view the Photobucket-linked shots above. I think they are the only ones I"ve got right now, since my digital is in for repair. I honestly hate to part with this one, but a custom order came in that I would REALLY, REALLY like to take home, so that's why the bargain-basement sale price! Thanks for all the emails - you can reach me best at fmatthes@chubb.com during the day for this one.

This beautiful guitar is basically in NEW condition. This is one of the very first USA Standards "reissued" in 1995 after Hamer had dropped the model from the catalog for a decade. I bought it new that year after a long wait and have kept it in immaculate condition since. Rick Nielsen autographed this one personally a few years back (can have signature removed for a nominal charge) and he commented that the neck shape was identical to his Flametop USA Nielsen Signature models made only for the Japanese market at that time. Plays and looks incredible. One piece mahogany body under wide flame maple cap, nice dark rosewood and highly figured pearl crown inlay; toggle switch washer added, otherwise all original. Includes orig. HAMER Hardshell case with all paperwork and goodies. Selling for $1,250 (Shipped!)- would prefer no trades at this time.

HHB: I am very sorry to hear that. Losing a parent is one of the toughest things we have to face. Thoughts and prayers are with you. C.

This one's fer Stike:

The back binding is also definitely Gretsch-like. The next one will have to be a "White Falconesque" Newport w/Trons. Gotta hook 'em up with some gold sparkle nitron binding stock for that I guess. That would require some significant financial manuvering though, so maybe in a few years?!

Jon: Do I hear "matching Monaco Bass"? I've got a dealer who can hook you up... Brian - Wrong Twin! Actually, I think Serial would dig that a lot!

Ya know, it's never enough for you, is it Lou?!?!

Actually, I coined the term "The Ultimate Gretsch" when we started talking about the initial specs early in the year I've always loved the way Gretsches looked, but only owned one that played worth a damn! After this one was already in the works, Jol showed up at NAMM with that 'Tron-equipped Newport masterpiece, so I guess P-90s are the next best thing, eh? This thing is un-freakin-believable in person. Almost impossible to get a good idea from the pictures - REALLY. It took a couple of tries to get it right, but that finish is amazing. Anniversary binding (multi-ply) all around...I hope to air it out a bit tonight. Everybody involved smacked it out of the park on this guitar!!

Hey guys - this thread is getting a bit far-flung and potentially argumentative for the Main Board and becoming more "outer circle" stuff. Salem - please try to limit your open-ended "discuss" threads, okay? If you have something relevant or really more Hamer/guitar/music related, let's stick to that okay?

Salem - no offense, but what PLANET are you from? Good thing that heroin is cool and all, because lord knows you wouldn't defile yourself with a cigarette, right?

Mike Wanchic (JC Mellencamp's 30+ year guitarist) played a black Standard with a single bridge pickup and a Sustainblock, if I recall correctly. The best shots of it are from when "Johnny Cougar" played on SCTV back in 81 or so.

Andrew: I forgot about YOURS! Okay - now I know of two.

Thomas: I know that descriptions can be really subjective to the player's own ear and perception of how a particular word translates to a guitar's tone, but some of the "meatiest" guitars I've played have been lightweight Vees. Some of 'em downright LesPaulish even.

I know of one. Never seen another one, but I have seen a picture of exactly one with a Sustainblock. That would probably be a pretty useful conversion.

Actually, when the Vees were first designed, there was little, if any, consideration for comfort or playability. They were reportedly drafted by an auto designer of the time working with Ted McCarty to add a little "flash" to the stodgy Gibson image and basically make a splash in the marketplace. Interestingly enough, the Explorer and Futura body styles have an amazing balance factor and are great ergonomically in a sitting or standing position. I never got along with the Moderne style, but know some people who swear by it. (okay...ONE person) The Vee/Vector is just a classic design that works, but sitting with one is definitely an acquired talent.

Easily the best Vee out there - better than those selling at twice the price. If you can find one, try one. Brian B. has one that is quite possibly the lightest guitar I've ever played (including fly-weight acoustics). Sad thing is that it has his name on the headstock, so I couldn't just make off with it! ("Hey Chris - are you happy to see me or is that a...") This could be the sweetest deal going on a Korina Vector right now - this one is also with a good seller: Korina Vector Auction (Tom J.)

Belgian: Glad they made it to ya! You could always skip the pasta and start training to become the next Arnold Schwarzenneger, eh?

Brooks is right on - these guys are funny as hell! Great singers too - I'm checking to see if they're hitting the Improv here in DC on this tour. David B. - it must be a semi-religious experience recording at Fidelitorium with Mitch behind the wheel. Awesome - I've got to git some of your stuff, man!

Craig: WTF are you talking about? Dude. You are SERIOUSLY delusional.

Zorrow - good news...check your email! Dion - hope you got yours tonight.

I personally do not like the idea of deleting posts. Nearly everytime one has been deleted, for whatever reason (which is EXTREMELY RARE and isn't done lightly), there is great beating of chests and gnashing of teeth in protest - almost exclusively from parties not even directly involved. When the request is made by the original poster, or a legitimate complaint has been directed to the mods, this is handled in as diplomatic a way as is possible on an internet message board. People like to talk big behind their computer keyboards. Unfortunately, that's the reality of things. I am not a fan of censorship, but do agree that there has been cause for post deletion or routing to another area of the board on occasion. If you don't like the way this site is moderated, feel free to volunteer. See how much fun it really is dealing with the petty issues on a regular basis! (hint - it AIN'T fun!!) I like the idea of moving the bickering threads to the O.C. where the ranting can go on until the pointlessness becomes deafening. Edited to add, I also don't think ANYBODY is owed a public explanation for a deleted post when the original post's intent was CLEARLY nothing less than a trolling or instigation. Trust me - we're all Message Board savvy enough to spot that crap a mile away. If you don't like it, go cry somewhere else - you shouldn't be starting trouble in the first place.

Hey Dave - I've got yer shirts RIGHT HERE! (no - really. I've got your shirts right here.)

No matter WHERE ya live, the Gub'ment gonna stick it to ya! I marked them as "Gift/Cadeau" because the Postal dude said that anything else would add some sort of crazy tax on the other end...that ain't cool!!