Vivi-Tone Archtop Acoustic Guitar (c.1935)

Manufactured beginning in 1932 by Lloyd Loar and Lewis Williams’ new company after they left the employ of Gibson. Unusual small body (13″ lower bout), small dark sunburst finish, flat spruce top with adjustable bridge straddling the unusual soundhole (2 circles), arched spruce back with 2 f-holes, maple (?) sides which extend ~1/2″ past edge of back, tortoise plastic pickguard with side trim for depth and strength, celluloid headstock overlay with black silkscreened Vivi-Tone logo, Grover open gear tuners and tailpiece, minor open heel crack, interior white label states that this guitar may be exchanged by 24th April 1936 for an Acousti-Lectric model, designed by Lloyd Loar and made in Detroit, MI, with period HSC (purple lining). Ultimately these are a very interesting footnote in guitar history, and add to the saga of Loar and Williams who were so influential at Gibson in the 1920’s. Sold AS-IS. On Consignment.