1962 Epiphone Wilshire

First introduced in 1959, the Epiphone Wilshire was one of the companies stripped back solid body electric offerings, being comparable to the equivalent Les Paul Special models at the time. Manufactured by Gibson in Kalamazoo, these guitar share some elements with their Gibson equivalent, but also showcase some of the more unique features that make vintage Epiphone electric guitars so much fun. This 1962 Epiphone Wilshire is a fantastic example of the first generation of this model. 

Featuring a Mahogany body and set neck construction, this Wilshire is lightweight and extremely comfortable to play. The double cutaway body features the more rounded design introduced in 1961, along with a neck that features a slim, comfortable profile that is typical of Gibson made guitars at this time. The body is fitted with a pair of Gibson made soap bar P90 pickups, which would be replaced in mid 1962 with mini humbuckers on this model. This guitar features the 3 a side, shorter headstock design used by Epiphone at this time, along with a set of single line Kluson tuners, gold screened headstock logo, and pearl dot fret inalys and symmetrical pickguard.

This guitar is in very good condition, with the original cherry finish showing some minor play wear and patina, but nothing more than you would expect from a guitar of this age that has obviously been well looked after. There has been an Epiphone style horseshoe vibrato fitted to the body, with previous screw holes visible, although this has now been removed in favour of a repro stop tailpiece. The Centralab pots are original and date to 1962, although week codes are not visible (134 62XX). The original Kluson tuners function as they should but show some obvious ageing and patina to the metal. This guitar has benefitted from a previous refret, and has also had a newer nut fitted. Otherwise, this guitar is internally and externally original. This guitar also includes a non original hard case. 

This guitar has been given a full service & appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.