Max Flying V '67 replica Solid Body Electric Guitar (1980s)

Max  Flying V
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Item # 11611
Prices subject to change without notice.
Max Flying V '67 replica Model Solid Body Electric Guitar (1980s), made in Los Angeles, serial # 000922, sparkling burgundy finish, mahogany body and neck, rosewood fingerboard, black Period Gibson hard shell case.

Over the last 40 years Peter "Max" Baranet gained world renown among many of the pickiest players in the world for his fantastic entirely hand-made replicas of some of the most sought after Gibson vintage models, particularly Les Pauls and Flying V's. A number of top musicians actually prefer Max's creations to the originals they were modeled after for stage and recording use. No other individual luthier working the same territory comes close to the respect Max gained among pro guitarists and collectors of these specific models. Max passed away in March of 2023, and will be missed by a legion of musicians, fans and collectors.

This instrument is an older Max replica of a 1967 Flying V, built from then old-growth mahogany in the 1980s or early '90s in his original Los Angeles shop. It perfectly captures the essence of these now very rare second generation V's. Only 175 Flying V guitars were built in 1966-69 of which 34 are currently documented as completely factory original, unmodified and unbroken. While not as rarefied as the original 1958-59 models these 60's V's are highly sought after, and rarely come to market.

This guitar is not only the "next best thing", it is 'it's own thing"; a very close copy but with its own quirks and personality. The mahogany body and neck are built to the original 1966 pattern. The guitar is finished in Sparkling Burgundy lacquer, one of the 5 stock colors the original models were issued in. It is estimated that only around 30 to 35 of the Gibson originals were issued in this finish. In most cases those had natural necks, but this one has a matching neck which is only documented on a couple of original examples. The serial number conforms to a series used for the first batch of V's issued in early 1967.

The hardware is authentic and period correct to the late 1960s, including original Kluson tuners, Gibson Vibrola, Gibson patent # pickups and correct wiring. The one visible pot code 6631, again in the range of the Gibson originals; the others are soldered over. The pickguard and truss rod cover are the correct original plastic and pattern, it is possible they are original 1960s parts; the inspector's rubber-stamped mark under the guard is the correct pattern.

Max even re-created known factory "mistakes" including the extra post-finish routs in the neck pocket cavity and a corner chiseled away in the control cavity to allow the wiring to lay properly. This guitar is a superb player, easily the equal of its Gibson inspiration with a super vibe, and a great testament to Max's talents and love for Gibson. Some of his creations have been passed off as "Original Gibsons" over the years; now an original "MAX" is in many ways equally venerated. This guitar comes with a Max COA letter giving details on the instrument.
 
Overall length is 44 1/2 in. (113 cm.), 16 3/4 in. (42.5 cm.) across at the widest point, and 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 24 3/4 in. (629 mm.). Width of nut is 1 9/16 in. (40 mm.).

This guitar shows some typical play wear, with correct 60s-style checking and numerous small dings and dents to the finish which in this case may be actual or very accurately simulated! The guitar remains as Max built it, with all the original hardware much of which is authentic Gibson parts. It plays and sounds exactly as it should and resides in an early 1970's purple lined Gibson Flying V hard-shell case. Overall Excellent Condition.