1962 Epiphone Crestwood Custom, Serial Number 42603

Shipped from Kalamazoo, Michigan, on January 5, 1962, this Crestwood Custom is an excellent example of Epiphones top-of-the-line solidbody electric. Like other instruments by and Epiphone, this contoured double-cutaway body shape was used across a range of models, including the Coronet and the Wilshire, but was set apart by its appointments, most notably mini humbucking pickups, a clear plexiglass pickguard with a center white stripe, and celluloid oval inlays.

The original cherry finish has faded to a muted maroon while still showcasing its original vibrant color underneath the hardware. There are nicks and dings throughout the body, with the most significant wear being a ding through the finish on the treble side waist. There are additional fading and light playwear along the back of the neck and edges of the headstock. A small crack extending from the edge of the body through the output jack was carefully glued and stabilized. Overall, this is a well-preserved Crestwood that has seen plenty of affectionate use throughout its life so far.

The neck is a slim D profile, fast and comfortable, measuring .76 at the 1st fret and .87 at the 12th. Thanks to an excellent refret and newly installed nut by the team at Repair & Restoration, this guitar is a fantastic player up and down the neck. The Brazilian rosewood fretboard is dark and rich, and the celluloid oval inlays have all been inspected and reglued as necessary.

The electronics remain untouched and original, featuring Centralab potentiometers, Sprague ceramic disc capacitors, and Switchcraft selector switch and output jack. The original pair of Patent Applied For mini humbuckers read 7.37k in the neck and 7.20k in the bridge. Tonally, they are mellow and clear, offering excellent articulation and great balance between the two positions.

The original Epiphone Tremotone tailpiece with rosewood insert remains in placevisually striking and emblematic of the era. While better known for its aesthetic appeal than for aggressive vibrato performance, it completes the guitars unmistakable early-60s look. This Crestwood retains its original set of no wall black Top Hat knobs with silver reflectors in very good condition, with volume and tone lettering fully intact. The original rocker bridge had begun to sink and is included in the case. In its place is a Custom ABR-1 with a standard non-rocker base for added stability.

The nickel hardware is all lightly patinaed, and a matching aged set of reproduction Kluson Deluxe single-line double-ring tuners is installed. This Crestwood Custom is balanced, resonant, responsive, and a joy to play.

The guitar ships in a modern Epiphone blue-and-gray case.

This instrument has received a professional setup and thorough inspection from Certified Vintage and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, Letter of Appraisal, and new Limited Lifetime Warranty.