The Guyatone LG-50 is, undoubtedly, one cool guitar. Before American guitars entered the UK in large numbers, one of the most popular guitars amongst the first wave of British rock and rollers was a Japanese import. With it's bird's eye maple finish and sleek shape, the Guyatone LG-50, also marketed under the brand name of Antoria. The Antoria LG-50 differed in having dot inlays to the fretboard, as opposed to the pearloid rectangular inlays on the Guyatone. Also available was the Star branded EG-80, also manufactured at the Guyatone factory.
The distribution of the Antoria LG-50 was the responsibility of J.T.Coppock (Leeds) Ltd. The Guyatone was distributed by J.& I. Arbiter. In 1962, the Guyatone LG-50 appeared in the catalogue of Bell Musical Instruments, with a cash price of £25.
Intriguingly the Guyatone LG 50 was the inspiration for the original Burns-Weill Fenton, and it's two offshoots, the Fenton-Weill De Luxe and the original Burns Sonic.
Hank Marvin (second from right) had an Antoria LG-50 which was used on the earliest recordings with Cliff Richard and The Drifters.
A black Guyatone LG-50 model was also made available in the UK, although seldom seen.
I have an LG-50 with VOX branding.
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