This 1953 Hofner Committee is the earliest Selmer distributed Hofner we have ever had in the shop (and ever likely to have). It is serial number 2004, so the 5 th
Committee model ever built.
Top of the regular range of Hofner archtops, the Committee was designed to impress. It was introduced as a UK-only model around 1953/54. These very early models sported the old style “frondose” headstock without the Hofner lettering, and the plastic barrel tuning pegs. Birds Eye Maple veneer was almost exclusively used for the body back and sides, with carved solid spruce body tops. The single piece maple back on this example is really special, and the sides look like they might be a Spalted Maple.
We are delighted to report that the guitar is in great condition, all original, and has clearly been well cared for over the last 70 years. There are some marks to the top, including an area where a round sticker has obviously been fixed to the guitar for many years – there also is some lovely lacquer crazing to the top which is only visible when looking at a particular angle. In addition there are small vacant holes to the side of the end of the neck where a floating pickup has been previously installed, and small holes to the side of the body where the scratch plate bracket would have been fitted (see last 7 pictures). Despite its great condition this guitar is far more than a collector’s piece – it plays and sounds great. Set up with nice low action across the fretboard, this guitar is ready to play on for another 70 years. And to top it off the guitar comes complete with its original Winter Plush Lined hard case, which is in even better condition than the guitar. The handle looks in such good condition we feel this must be a replacement.
Shipping within mainland UK using fully insured 24-hour courier service @ £35.00.
Customers outside of UK should contact Vintage Rare & Retro Guitars for a shipping quotation. Free pick-up is always available at our Gullane shop.
