Johnny Smith (or L5) bridge (not saddle) - who can make me one?

**mrichman** · 08-31-2019, 09:09 PM

Hi everyone, does anyone know of a luthier that will make me a proper authentic bridge for my 1968 Johnny Smith? It currently has a replacement rosewood bridge but I'd like an authentic wood ebony base bridge with the pearl inlays ... thanks to all in advance!

**Jabberwocky** · 09-01-2019, 12:33 AM

Contact Masaki-san of Walkin JP.

Timeline Photos

**Jabberwocky** · 09-01-2019, 01:02 AM

**mrichman** · 09-01-2019, 10:35 AM

Thank you!

**Jabberwocky** · 09-01-2019, 02:46 PM

If the bowties are not important to you I would recommend that you contact Matt Cushman or Steve Holst.

**Hammertone** · 09-02-2019, 03:52 AM

Or just buy a real one. I know a guy who has a couple of them in his box o' bridges.

**mrichman** · 09-02-2019, 08:36 AM

I'd like to have a real one, problem is that I don't know of anyone who has one - if you ever hear of one available please let me know ...

**floatingpickup** · 09-02-2019, 09:00 AM

I’m sure you already know that there is one on eBay right now. Seems pretty expensive though. 1962 - 1975 Gibson Johnny Smith or L-5 Wooden Bridge Base Plate. | eBay
Keith

**mrichman** · 09-02-2019, 09:14 AM

Yeah I've seen that one - still keeping my eyes open, that one does look expensive.

**Greentone** · 09-02-2019, 11:36 AM

Joe's Vintage Guitars has them. I purchased one that I am quite satisfied with.

https://www.jvguitars.com/images/Arc...kel1200%20.jpg

**floatingpickup** · 09-02-2019, 01:10 PM

Originally Posted by Greentone

Joe's Vintage Guitars has them. I purchased one that I am quite satisfied with.

https://www.jvguitars.com/images/Arc...kel1200%20.jpg

the inlays don’t look exactly like the original Gibson ones.
Keith

**Hammertone** · 09-02-2019, 03:18 PM

I know a guy who has two of them. And he’ll be in Montreal later in September, so you could see them in person. Wait ... I’m that guy! How about that!

**2bornot2bop** · 09-02-2019, 04:04 PM

Originally Posted by floatingpickup

I’m sure you already know that there is one on eBay right now. Seems pretty expensive though. 1962 - 1975 Gibson Johnny Smith or L-5 Wooden Bridge Base Plate. | eBay
Keith

So this bridge also fits a Gibson L5.
Question: How does this bridge differ from the identical looking bridge base for a 70's Super 400? Am I wrong in assuming the Super 400 version would be wider? Anyone know the answer to this question? Thanks!

**mrichman** · 09-02-2019, 04:06 PM

I'm pretty sure the Super 400 bridge is the same as for the L5, Johnny Smith etc.

**2bornot2bop** · 09-02-2019, 04:44 PM

Originally Posted by mrichman

I'm pretty sure the Super 400 bridge is the same as for the L5, Johnny Smith etc.

If that's true I have a Super 400 base that I'll give you, with the agreement that you'll return it if it doesn't meet your requirements. It's from a '73 Super 400. PM me if you're interested.

**Hammertone** · 09-02-2019, 08:03 PM

Originally Posted by mrichman

I'm pretty sure the Super 400 bridge is the same as for the L5, Johnny Smith etc.

Yes.

Originally Posted by 2bornot2bop

If that's true I have a Super 400 base that I'll give you, with the agreement that you'll return it if it doesn't meet your requirements. It's from a '73 Super 400. PM me if you're interested.

That's a way better deal than what I can do. Go for it!

**73Fender** · 09-06-2019, 06:39 AM

Heritage used similar saddles on some models as well. The Golden Eagle comes to mind. Knowing where to source similar replacements could come in handy for some of us. Good topic.