To clear up any confusion, I came across this thread while researching the guitar after I had purchased it. It appeared the OP had passed on the guitar, so I felt comfortable posting about.
I approached this purchase from a player/project perspective but the guitar arrived in great shape. I paid less than asking price, so thats a bonus.
The previous owner(s) took great care of it (minus that godforsaken Bigsby). Nearly zero dings/scratches/swirls. Headstock is great and free of any finish chipping etc. Frets are still good, just wide and flat. There was some minor hairline finish chipping and cracking on the neck/fretboard join near the nut, but looks like a solid repair because i cant feel anything, just barely see it.
It came with what appears to be the original tailpiece and studs. I wonder if the saddles are replacements but I have seen original Nightbird photos with this exact black hardware.
The pickups appear original and in great condition with little wear on the covers, Maybe they were swapped and replaced before the sale? I understand the extra screw gives it away but I havent opened them up yet. The electronics and solders all look professionally done.
The Bigsby was a B6- so no holes in the top- just three small ones around the strap button which can disappear. Luckily it was mounted on felt and left no trace.
Unfortunately, the original tuners have been changed out and feel like they need to be changed out again. The extra holes need some work.
I have the two black Guild knobs for the volume and tone on hand.
So many people here with tremendous knowlege on the subject (and ridiculous guitars) please correct me if I got anything wrong here or any advice would be appreciated. I own a few Westerly Guilds but this is my first Nightbird.
The plan going forward was to put gold HB-1’s in it, which are also already on hand, but I’m waffling now that the guitar is in better shape than I thought. I have no problem slightly modifying non-original equipment, but I’m wondering if this bird should remain as stock and original as possible now. Or should I just put the damn HB-1’s in ?