Gibson
Gibson F5-L Master Model F-Style Mandolin w/Case (1988)
Gibson F5-L Master Model F-Style Mandolin w/Case (1988)
This is a fantastic vintage Gibson mandolin in good shape for its again. There is evidence on the top of a repaired dings that have been clear coated over as well as a couple other small dings. Structurally this instrument has no issues, the neck is in great shape and does not need a reset and there are and there are no bracing issues. The most noticeable ding on the top looks to have been repaired properly and shows no sign of being an issue.
The top seems to have been oversprayed at some point as the colour seems way lighter than other mandolins from this era, this can also be seen on the back where there is a richer and darker burst.
This mandolin is signed on the inside by Steven Carlson of Flatiron Mandolins fame. Flatiron was sold to Gibson in 1987 and Steven Carlson worked for Gibson until 1993. The Carlson era models are know for being very well built and sounding fantastic. This model also has another signature on the inside dating from 1993 from David Harvey who is currently a master luthier and head of the Gibson mandolin department. Our theory is that David Harvey at some point did some work on this mandolin (most likely the big ding in the top that has been finished over) but we are unable to confirm this. Whatever the reason is it's incredibly cool to have these two legendary names in the mandolin community signed in the mandolin.
Everything seems to be original on this mandolin except for the bridge but the original one is in the case. A Superior hardshell case is included with this instrument. This mandolin also comes with the original Gibson mail-in warranty card.
Specs
- Carved Spruce Top
- Carved Flame Maple Back & Sides
- Flame Maple Neck
- "Fern" Headstock Inlay
- Rosewood Fingerboard & Bridge
- Binding on the Body, Neck & Headstock
- Gold Hardware