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1968 Guild Stuart X-500
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Serial #: DA217, Westerly, RI label
Body size at lower bout:17" Scale length: 24 3/4" Nut width: 1 10/16"
Materials: Arched Sitka spruce top; arched tiger flame maple back; solid flame maple neck; solid ebony fingerboard with mother of pearl/abalone V-block inlay; G-logo peghead inlay; 5-ply body binding, 3-ply fingerboard binding, triple bound headstock; bound f-holes.
Hardware: 100% original gold hardware, including twin Guild HB-1 humbuckers, engraved harp tailpiece; compensated adjustable ebony bridge; Pat. Pend Grover Rotomatic tuners; beveled art deco stairstep pickguard; Guild logo reflector cap knobs; 3 way pickup selector switch; volume and tone controls with master volume on cutaway horn.
Notes: Introduced in 1953, the Guild Stuart X-500 remained the top of the Guild electric line for over four decades, and incorporates design features from a number of its ultra-premium competitors. Like the Gibson ES-350 and Tal Farlow models, the Stuart X-500 features a 17" Venetian cutaway laminate body, mounted pickups and controls, deluxe multiply binding and gold hardware throughout. From Epiphone's Emperor, the X-500 adapted the abalone/pearl V-block fingerboard inlay. And another New Yorker, named D'Angelico, supplied inspiration for the art-deco stairstep pickguard as well.
In 1963, the X-500 model was equipped with humbucking pickups, and a master volume control appeared by 1971. This example is an early product of the Rhode Island factory, where Guild enjoyed its greatest years, from 1966 until its closing in 2001. Well cared for, the guitar has 100% original hardware and finish, with no cracks or repairs. The body shows only light playwear, with only a few scattered lacquer nicks, with a few finish gaps on the neck heel as well, most likely from an older guitar stand.
Action is smooth and low with a fresh high-precision setup over the gentle D-profile neck, with solid ebony fingerboard. A classic working jazz box, the X-500 has a sleek neck profile and a full-depth, all-laminate body that is warmly resonant yet notably feedback resistant. An outstanding value, in wonderful condition, this X-500 is an exceptional find for the working player and weekend warrior alike. One only: call now.
Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge nickel flatwound strings (.012-.054). The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 4/64" to 5/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief for acoustic playing with medium strings. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.
Case: Original Guild black plush lined hardshell case.
