My first Guild in a X-500

[AlohaJoe]

The chart you refer to is known to be less than accurate. Hans' is the world's foremost expert on all things Guild and if he says it's from 2000, you can count on it. I finally got a copy of his book and it's a treasure trove of great, well researched information.

Since you have an interest in Guild history, I'm sure you'd enjoy it.

http://www.amazon.com/Guild-Guitar-Book-Hans-Moust/dp/0634009664

He's currently researching the later years and we're all hoping there's another book on the way.
- jw

 

[2bornot2bop]

Hans' is the world's foremost expert on all things Guild and if he says it's from 2000, you can count on it.
- jw

Thanks JW. I wasn't doubting Hans. My purpose in asking more specific information was to determine how a user/owner source a serial number code themselves for the purpose of reading it themselves in black and white.

I'd seen the book on eBay weeks ago before buying the X-500. Is the book the source for dating the guitar by serial number or is an owner simply out of luck to date their guitar?

I'm asking for more information for purposes of documenting the production date of this guitar. I'd imagine I'd be among many on this forum attempting to do their best to date their guitar.

enjoy,
2b

 

[AlohaJoe]

I don't think there is a reliable source in print or online. Hans' book is the most reliable source for Guilds built from 1952-1977. We're all eagerly awaiting the follow-up. As I understand it, the numbering system at the factory was haphazard. Sorry I can't be more help... there may be others here w more info.

 

[guildman63]

There are currently no reliable sources from which one can accurately date a Guild guitar that was made after 1977, so for now the best way is to just ask Hans and go with what he tells us. Those through 1977 are in the Guild Guitar Book, and those after 1977 will eventually be in volume 2 of the Guild Guitar Book once it is published. We are all hoping that volume 2 comes out very soon, aren't we, Hans? :mrgreen:

 

[2bornot2bop]

There are currently no reliable sources from which one can accurately date a Guild guitar that was made after 1977, so for now the best way is to just ask Hans and go with what he tells us. Those through 1977 are in the Guild Guitar Book, and those after 1977 will eventually be in volume 2 of the Guild Guitar Book once it is published. We are all hoping that volume 2 comes out very soon, aren't we, Hans? :mrgreen:

I understand. Thanks to all for the explanation.

Does anyone know the production history of the X-500?

I'd like to know the years production began, production stopped, and when production began again.

Seems I recall reading somewhere that the X-500 was replaced by the X-700 and then production began again for the X-500 when the production of the X-700 was cancelled.

Is any of that accurate?

Thanks again in advance.

enjoy,
2b

 

[fronobulax]

Is any of that accurate?

If Hans says so then yes. Otherwise who knows?

In the absence of Volume II, Beasley's book will get you to 1994 but beyond that you are probably stuck.

If you are willing to believe this it does confirm your sense that the X-500 was in production from 1953 to 1993 or thereabouts, was "replaced" by the X-700 and subsequently brought back.

 

[ArchtopAnimal]

.
[/quote]

I have Thomastik flat 12's on mine now and they are very good, but I previously had the D'Addario Chromes in 12 and I may prefer those (and they are much cheaper)...can't go wrong either way. Mine is a 1984, and here 'tis...

[/quote]
That's a superb colour . Too few in that finish imo. I've also recently changed from Chromes 12-52 to TI Swing flats 13-53 The GDA is waaaaaaay sharp without
some bridge re-angling

 

[killdeer43]

I think a first post welcome is in order for ArchtopAnimal!
Welcome to LTG....you'll like it here, so keep it tuned. :wink:

Joe

*Beautiful guitar, BTW!

 

[ArchtopAnimal]

Thankyou very much
After several years of not playing ( or even opening a case ) , I've just decided to
get back into it . In my 5 years " down" , all sorts of cheap electronics has become
available. Bought a Boss RC3 Loop Station ( last week ) and I'm having a ball recording
rhythm and bass lines to noodle "blues" over .
I'd read several posts on the Forum in the past year , and really enjoyed the info
and photos that are here . 8)

 

[ArchtopAnimal]

.....

Since you have an interest in Guild history, I'm sure you'd enjoy it.

I bought a copy back in 2000 . It's a gem !

 

[guildman63]

Does anyone know the production history of the X-500?

I'd like to know the years production began, production stopped, and when production began again.

I may be a little off, but my understanding is that the X-500 began in 1953, was produced until 1993 when it was discontinued in favor of the X-700 (solid top). Several years later, I'm not sure which, the X-700 became a part of the Guild Benedetto line at which time the X-500 was brought back. Again, Hans' Guild Guitar Book, Volume 2 will clarify all of the details once it is released.