Replicas (the infamous 59 Les Paul)

[JonAdams2024]

I’m considering doing a Honduran Mahogony one piece 1959 Les Paul (true to specs), REPLICA, I know those are kind of “taboo”, but honestly, I’d like to be able to build one and know I did it and it sounds great, But I know me, I’ll end up building 10…is there a “market” for these, I know a few luthiers get big money for their reps but I’m not them….and I have no clue what one would even go for….i mean it’s hard to put a price on something you spent hours pouring yourself into….and let alone parting with a guitar….anyone know if there’s a market and what a fair price would be….and yes I would definitely market them as REPLICAS, not as genuine Gibson Les Paul guitars….That wouldn’t sit well with me or anyone else I’m sure…

 

[Dave P]

First off, Gibson has a trademark on the body and headstock shape, so it's all going to have to be done by word of mouth. Obviously there will be risk involved. Most guys who build them don't advertise, either you know or you don't. As far as price, it all depends on the quality of the finished product, accuracy, tone, etc. The market is pretty small.

 

[jb_abides]

….and yes I would definitely market them as REPLICAS, not as genuine Gibson Les Paul guitars….That wouldn’t sit well with me or anyone else I’m sure…

Better to make the best "obvious imposter" you can using your distinct logo and headstock shape. Stop any shenanigans upfront by preventing them to occur, and don't tread on other's intellectual property.

 

[Steven K]

I’m considering doing a Honduran Mahogony one piece 1959 Les Paul (true to specs), REPLICA, I know those are kind of “taboo”, but honestly, I’d like to be able to build one and know I did it and it sounds great, But I know me, I’ll end up building 10…is there a “market” for these, I know a few luthiers get big money for their reps but I’m not them….and I have no clue what one would even go for….i mean it’s hard to put a price on something you spent hours pouring yourself into….and let alone parting with a guitar….anyone know if there’s a market and what a fair price would be….and yes I would definitely market them as REPLICAS, not as genuine Gibson Les Paul guitars….That wouldn’t sit well with me or anyone else I’m sure…

Do an internet search, you will find the ball park figure they sell for, however those have Gibson on the Headstock, since your guitar will not, I have no clue, yet I doubt near the Gibson price.

 

[jb_abides]

Do an internet search, you will find the ball park figure they sell for, however those have Gibson on the Headstock, since your guitar will not, I have no clue, yet I doubt near the Gibson price.

FWIW: He didn't state that [bolded], he explicitly stated he would market them as a 'replica' which implies he will do the logo and headstock shape and wants to differentiate only on the marketing with disclosure. Even with an upfront disclosure, this is a Bad Mojo inquiry. We don't need more replicas.

Even the Nick Huber Orca 59 was 'shut down' over IP.

Best approach: be like Johan Gustavsson.

 

[Steven K]

Well. I feel he should state this was made by me so people will not think they are buying an actual Gibson manufactured replica. Yet still this seems illegal IMO you are not Gibson.

 

[gtrdaddy]

It's not just "Bad Mojo", it's illegal to build "replicas with Gibson put on the headstock, it is then counterfeit. Whether there's an intention to sell it with a full disclosure or not, it is illegal because the person who acquires it can defraud someone with it. Illegal to make, possess, and sell.

 

[MarcB]

The point here is that in 20-50yrs time, if you put a Gibson logo on the headstock, some poor guy will buy it not knowing it’s a fake..

So don’t do it.. you’re doing a disservice to the community.. as JB rightly said.. put your own logo on the headstock..

 

[Dave P]

Best approach: be like Johan Gustavsson.

JG built some replicas 20 years ago before his own guitars took off.

 

[jb_abides]

JG built some replicas 20 years ago before his own guitars took off.

OK. Revised...

Best approach: be like Johan Gustavsson TODAY!

 

[gitmohair]

Or, indeed, just don't do it. There's plenty of demand for something different that isn't being satisfied by the mainstream manufacturers, if you've got the skills do something genuinely useful with them perhaps.

 

[Steven K]

Additionally if they are very well made and playing, using your name (along with advertising and word of mouth) can be favorable for you. You may get your name known by prospective buyers.