TalismanRich

If Teaky is close enough to check it out in person, he'll know if it is a crack, scratch or reflection within about 2 seconds. You don't often see a crack that goes across the grain at a smooth curve, especially in a laminate body. A physical inspection will show anything (headstock repairs, etc.) and he can ask any questions. I think $2750 is a bit high. That's likely $3 - 500 more than it originally sold for. My H157 was much less than that in 2003. I would offer $2500 cash. The used guitar market isn't THAT strong. A new standard 535 is only $2500 right now from Heritage!

First, the Bigsby could well be factory installed. Back then, they were much more amenable to doing customizations like that I can't tell for sure if it has gold or silver hardware. Normally the 555s come with gold hardware, but lots of people opted for chrome or nickel, and the factory would gladly accommodate. Also, having Lollar pickups would not be unusual. The Imperials are very good pickups. When you check it out, see if there is something on the label inside the F-hole. As for the "crack", that might well be a reflection from the trem's arm, not a scratch. A crack would be unlikely as it doesn't seem to follow any grain, and the semi hollows are laminates with the grains between layers going crosswise which can resist the development of cracks like that. I zoomed in on the full size frontal shot, and didn't see the same type of line. I have a H-535 it's an absolutely GREAT playing guitar. The only question is if it feels comfortable, and sounds good to YOU!

They are all hand sprayed, so every one is different, depending on the way the painter feels on that day. There's no "template". It's free hand.

Mark, good to hear from you again. Glad to hear you're enjoying your time. I missed reading your tales (sometimes good, sometimes tales of woe). Should there come a day that you get the bug, you'll surely find some like-minded mates to scratch the itch. Don't stay away so long next time.

Lordy Mark, Do you have a black cloud floating somewhere over your head? I remember what it was like when my leg was in a cast for 6 weeks. UGH! Hope you heal up quickly!

Wow, you were looking to replace a guitar player, and you end up with a rotation of drummers! That stinks that your man had to bow out because of arthritis. This aging stuff just sneaks up and bites us when we're just having fun. Hopefully the days of drama and drunken spouses are far behind you. Perhaps you can grace us with some videos of the new band.

I can't think of a more eloquent way of putting the HOC and PSP in perspective. Yes, this is a hobby for most of us, but the friendships are what make it all worthwhile. Well said!

You mention the neck/body junction, but I don't see a photo of that joint. Perhaps I am not understanding the nature of the problem. Is the problem only with the binding, or is there a more structural issue with the neck joint? While I personally would not have an issue with the offcenter dots, it clearly is a fault. Your best recourse is to deal with the seller. If he is an authorized dealer, he should act as the bridge between you and the factory. Having modified the guitar with the Bigsby may present a problem. Changing the binding on the neck would be one way to remedy the situation, and I fear that it could result in more visible flaws. The dots are knocked in by hand, so the dot could be drilled out by hand, filled and redrilled for the new dot.

Mark, I can understand the logic of wanting a singer to come with a PA, but I would jump at the chance to grab a good singer regardless of the PA system. You can always buy PA equipment, but finding a great voice is so much tougher. Good luck on your search.