The Orpheum Imperator Style C archtop was the top of the line for the brand when introduced by Lange, a prominent instrument builder, in 1933. Featuring a carved, X-braced Adirondack Spruce top, Flame Maple for the sides, back and neck, Brazilian Rosewood for the multi-bound fingerboard and headplate, Ebony for the bridge and Mother of Pearl for the logo, this was an impressive instrument.
Archtop
From 2008 to 2012, the Gibson Les Paul Standard was modified with a chambered body, asymmetrical neck profile, locking tuners, locking output jack, and PCB-based control wiring. These very practical changes resulted in a much lighter, resonant guitar.
With its roots dating back to 1922, this custom ordered 1964 Gibson L-5 Stereo is formally known as the L-5 CES (Cutaway Electric Spanish), though the label identifies it only as an L-5. This model was aimed at professional, working guitarists, and until 1934 was built with a 16 inch wide body. In 1934, the body grew to a 17 inch width and gained X braces.
Over the years, the Gibson Les Paul Standard has gained and iconic position in the guitar pantheon, though it has been in and out of favour as time passed. Built during 1976, about halfway through Norlin’s ownership, this Gibson Les Paul Standard sports a classic tobacco sunburst finish.
The Gibson Super 400 strode above most others when giant archtops roamed the earth, and is still one of the largest production guitars made. Making its introduction in 1934 as the ‘Super L-5 Deluxe’, the non-cutaway model was quickly joined by a cutaway model, initially named the Super 400 P for ‘Premiere’. The ‘400’ designation was originally a reference to the price.
The Gibson Kalamazoo Award was originally designed and built by Gibson craftsman Wilbur Fuller as a completely hand-tuned archtop using the finest materials available. It is a spectacular demonstration of the skills involved in building a top-rank archtop guitar. This example dates to October 3rd, 1980 and was built in Kalamazoo, Michigan. It is in exceptional condition with wear limited to light fret wear in the lower positions.