We built this interpretation of Lester Polfuss’ original design from the 50s at Holger’s request. Our goal was to capture the “spirit” of what is probably the most popular guitar model of all time – the 1959 Standard – and to convey it in a modern guitar. Of course, Holger had some wishes in order to optimally adapt the guitar to his needs. First of all, of course, was the selection of wood: light one-piece Khaya mahogany was our choice for the body and neck. Ebony with mother-of-pearl V inlays was used for the fingerboard and we chose a beautifully flamed piece of Bosnian maple for the top.
The pickups were hand-wound by Kloppmann and are intended to recreate the 1959 PAF sound as best as possible. For the electronics, of course, only braided shield wire was used, CTS potentiometers and a solid Switchcraft switch and output jack. A modern TOM from ABM made of solid brass was used for the bridge, as well as an aluminum tailpiece for the best sustain and a beautiful open and “woody” sound character. As a little modern upgrade, we used Schaller tuners for the best tuning stability. Further upgrades include the 2-way truss rod with access from the end of the fretboard in Music Man style, the volute at the transition between the neck and headstock for more stability and stainless steel frets for absolutely wear-free playing and smooth bendings. The fretboard radius was also designed as a 10-14″ compound. The neck-body transition is comfortably rounded and, with the long tenon, which extends well below the neck pickup, has a maximum glue area for the best stability and sonic transmission. We also reinforced the neck with carbon rods, which makes it stiffer and reduces readjustment of the truss rod to a minimum. In addition, the vibrations really just “pour” out of the neck.
The subtly aged and super thin NC finish with the lemon burst and natural binding finally refines the body and the oiled neck ensures a pleasant, natural playing feel.
This is what we call Custom Shop: here you get YOUR guitar – without compromises!
Body: Khaya Mahogany 1pc.
Neck: Khaya Mahogany with Carbon rods
Fretboard: Ebony, 24.75″ (628mm) Scale, 22 medium stainless steel frets, Custom MOP Inlays
Pickups: Kloppmann handwound pickups // HB ’59 Set
Electronic: 3-Way Toggle Switch; 2x Volume; 2x Tone
Hardware: Aged Nickel; Schaller Tuners; ABM 2504 + 3020 Bridge
Construction: Set Neck with long Tenon
Finish: Body Aged Lemon Burst NC, Neck + Fretboard natural oiled
