UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12

Subject: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 20 Nov 04 - 07:42 AM

My Gibson Serenader 12 string got damp some time ago, and now that it is dry it needs major work, if it's possible. The head is definitely twisted, and the frets and fretboard have needed replacement for ages. Another result of the damp is that the varnish has crazed, but I'm not too worried about that. I assume that by using the neck bolt, and making a new fret board to accomodate any twist in the neck, it could be possible to make this old girl playable again. Please tell me if I'm being too optimistic, or more to the point, if you know someone good who can do the job.
Giok

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 20 Nov 04 - 07:48 AM

Sorry senior moment, Epiphone Serenader, made of course by Gibson in Kalamazoo Michigan.
Thank you.
Giok

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: Mooh
Date: 20 Nov 04 - 08:20 AM

Little or nothing can't be repaired, though replacement might be a larger part of the big jobs. Not being from the UK I don't know who to suggest, unless Mike Vanden does repairs, but don't give up on the instrument. If it's solid woods, just about nothing is impossible. The neck is redeemable, especially if the board is removed. It won't be a cheap job, but that shouldn't decide for you.

Peace, Mooh.

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: Mooh
Date: 20 Nov 04 - 08:27 AM

A quick Blue Book check indicates the Serenader was built from '63 to '70, had mahogany back and sides, adjustable saddle, and walnut finish. If you haven't already, I'd suggest you get the adjustable saddle replaced, particularly if it also has that abominable plastic bridge like some of the Gibson B series had.

For what it's worth.

Peace, Mooh.

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 20 Nov 04 - 07:27 PM

Rob Armstrong of Stafford Street Coventry is a very good craftsman. As is Steve Hicks of Leicester - they are the people i would turn to for such a project. But where do you live? there are good luthiers in most parts of England these days.

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: Nemesis
Date: 20 Nov 04 - 07:35 PM

Dave Whiteman - Sussex
Nick Benjamin - Sussex

In fact, Lewes, Sussex has an entire town of luthiers .. where'd you live?

Lewes Guitar Makers

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: burntstump
Date: 21 Nov 04 - 06:02 AM

Only one to handle it with true care:

Steve Clarke in Nottingham, he's in the yellow pages.

Done great work on several of my vintage guitars

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: GUEST,CN
Date: 21 Nov 04 - 08:28 PM

Mark Challinor in Otley does all my stuff and certainly knows what he's doing.

Here's more information.

Good luck - I hope you get it going again!

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 22 Nov 04 - 03:34 AM

Thanks for all the help and suggestions, I live up in the highlands of Scotland so getting itsorted anywhere near was always going to be difficult.
Giok

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: mooman
Date: 22 Nov 04 - 04:18 AM

Dear John,

Bill Finlayson in Clydebank is a good repairer and a bit closer to you.

All the best,

Richard

Subject: RE: UK Luthier to repair 60s Gibson 12
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 22 Nov 04 - 08:15 AM

Bailey Guitars is in South Ayrshire - see www.baileyguitars.co.uk.

In the UK there's a couple of guys I can recommend: Roger Williams in Lichfield, Staffs, tel [phone] (makes and repairs guitars - making one for Gordon Giltrap) and Bill Puplett in Harrow, North London, tel [phone] (has done work for the likes of Martin Simpson).

If you pack it correctly, a courier service like DHL should be trustworthy. Good luck!

Pete