Initially founded as a custom build company by Semie Moseley in late 1950s California, Mosrite guitars were among the most unique and short lived manufacturers to emerge from the West Coast electric guitar boom of the 1950s and ’60s. Having previously worked with Paul Bigsby and Rickenbacker, Moseley went on to create some of the most distinctive and forward thinking guitar designs of the era, with Mosrite instruments closely associated with The Ventures and later gaining a new generation of fans through players such as Johnny Ramone.
This 1966 Mosrite Ventures Mark I is a great example of the company’s most recognisable design, produced during the period of the famous collaboration with The Ventures. Constructed with the familiar offset body shape and slim, fast playing bolt on neck, the Mark I features many of the distinctive design elements that helped set Mosrite apart from other American guitars of the period, including the zero fret, unique bridge design and Mosrite’s unmistakable styling. The original pickups deliver the powerful, bright sound that these guitars are known for, with plenty of clarity, bite and growl.
This guitar is in good overall original condition, with the exception of the two potentiometers which have been replaced. The top side of the body has also been refinished in black, while the original Sunburst finish remains visible across the sides and rear. There is plenty of natural lacquer checking and patina throughout. This guitar is also includes a hard case.
As with all vintage instruments, this 1965 Mosrite Ventures II has been given a full service and appraisal by the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 2 year warranty.
