Gibson RB-250 Bowtie, early 1960's, five digit serial number 89XXX stamped in the back of the peghead. The existence of a few 19-hole flatheads was documented in an article by well-known luthier Tom Morgan in a publication in the '60's or early '70's. The tone ring weighs 49.6 oz. and the rim is full thickness, brown stained.
Pictures show the pot disassembled for cleaning. All the metal cleaned up nicely except the hooks, from which most of the plating is gone. I replaced the hooks with American made hooks from JDMC. The original hooks and nuts are included with the banjo. They could be replated and reinstalled.
The tailpiece pictured is an old Kershner, which is much more functional than the original tailpiece. The original tailpiece is included with the banjo.
The peghead was drilled for D-tuners. The holes are plugged with press-to-fit dowels that can be removed so the D-tuners can be reinstalled. The original D-tuners are included with the banjo. The original Kluson tuners have been replaced with new Schallers. All five of the original tuners are included with the banjo.
Capo marks in the back of the neck have been professionally spot filled and polished. They can be seen but not felt. Sliding capo holes in the side of the neck have been filled, finished over and polished. Sliding capo caused some wear to the top of the binding.
The original wooden fifth string nut was badly worn and has been replaced by a bone nut. Fifth string spikes are at 7, 8, 9, and 10.
The finish on the back of the resonator has the checking one would expect in a 50 year-old instrument, but the finish overall is remarkable in my opinion.
The resonator is three lug.
The back of the peghead corners show some finish chipping. No breakage or splintering.
Fingerboard is smoothe and the frets are almost new, with the some wear to
fret number two.
Older Weather King head installed and a 5/8" McPeake bridge.
Original case is structurally sound. Has been taped around the edges and could use a new handle. Cigarette burn inside.
Has the very deep tone typical of Bowties, but the McPeake bridge seems to give it brilliance as well.
The banjo is well set-up and ready to play. The original Kluson tuners, friction fifth tuner, D-tuners, tailpiece, and hooks and nuts are included. I have retained all the original parts to preserve the collector appeal of this instrument, while upgrading some items for cosmetic, playability and functional improvement.
↧