In the 1960s, the world was hungry for electric instrument, and Japanese manufacturers such as Teisco, Guyatone, and Matsumoku seized on the opportunity to export mass-produced axes. The market for affordable electric guitars grew so much that in 1966 over 750,000 guitars were exported from Japan. Most of their design elements were price-driven, which ultimately led to quirky but intriguing instruments that resembled American-made classics but captured their own unique vibe.
The Teisco ET-200 varied over the years with different specs and styling to each iteration. This Teisco Del Rey was made in Japan in the mid-'60s, and it features the yellow/brown sunburst finish and the signature 4x2 "shark fin" Teisco headstock. It has two single-coil pickups and slider switches to select each pickup. It has a volume and tone control for each pickup, too, and for whatever reason, the tone controls are wired backwards. It has authentic retro vibe. Imagine starting a garage band in the '60s with a guitar like this. Fun to play, and character you won't get from anything else.
On this '60s ET-200, the tremolo arm has been removed and lost, but otherwise it still sports all of its original parts and components. It plays well with nice action up and down the fingerboard. It shows various bumps and bruises (see photos), but fortunately no breaks, damages, or issues. Maybe it's a little wonky, but that's part of the vibe.
This 1960s Teisco Del Rey ET-200 is a great player with vintage tones that will add depth to any collection. It came to use without a case, but we have gig bags available for an additional cost.