Epiphone FT-120 guitar from 1968

The Esprit Guitare violin workshop had the privilege of receiving a visit from this charming old lady: an Epiphone FT-120 from 1968!

Overview of this Epiphone FT-120

In 68, guitars Epiphone FT-120s were manufactured in Japan, not the United States.
Indeed, Epiphone, which was a subsidiary of Gibson, moved its production to Japan in the 1960s to meet the growing demand for quality guitars at an affordable price. Epiphone guitars made in Japan have been highly praised for their build quality and sound. The FT-120 in particular was considered one of the most premium models produced by Epiphone in Japan.
This guitar features a mahogany neck, spruce top, and rosewood back and sides. It is also equipped with oil-bath mechanics, which are known for their durability and ease of use.
We can note some interesting features: a screwed neck (electric guitar type) and a screwed bridge support as well. And a zero fret! Great class!

This one arrived in poor condition. It had remained for several years (or ten years) at the bottom of a dusty attic…

Work completed

Big big clean to start. Particularly the fingerboard.
Then, moisturize the fingerboard using my homemade oil mixture (secret recipe 😉). Then polishing the frets, checking and greasing the tuners, internal visual inspection, installation of new strings and adjustment of the action.

Conclusion

This Epiphone FT-120 has a warm and powerful sound, with a good balance between bass, midrange and treble frequencies. It is also very comfortable to play, thanks to its ergonomic body shape and comfortable neck profile.
It’s a guitar that has increased in value, especially since it’s in excellent condition!

Photos

The Esprit Guitare workshop

The Esprit Guitare lutherie workshop welcomes you by appointment for maintenance, repair, setup or customization of guitars, bass, ukulele and more 😉
Feel free to contact us or book an appointment.

Esprit Guitare – a passion for instruments in Martinique.

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