My First Cheesy Guitar

[Veritas1911]

Bought this Japanese Teisco guitar off eBay. Other than the model J-2-1 that's all the information I have on it.

Now I do have to fix her up but I have no clue as to what knobs would be correct on this and I think there's suppose to be a label for the Tone and Volume controls. Also, it needs one tuner replacement.

Any information on this oldie but goodie? Years made, actual name, validation if it is truly a Teisco, where to get correct parts, value, etc. would be great.

Great forum by the way.

[VintAxe]

Hi Veritas1911

Your new guitar is indeed a Teisco. The model is MJ-1 and yours is a fairly early one built around 1963. The knobs used are standard black top hat knobs with the chrome paper inserts.

Here is a white set on eBay that are stylistically correct that you may want to consider:

[Veritas1911]

Thanks VintAxe - do you any recommended references, books where I can get more information on these classic guitars? Also looking for any reprints of catalogs that might show this one pictured back in its heyday.

Also, there is no headstock logo. Is that correct or would it have carried a Teisco logo?

[VintAxe]

Hey Veritas1911.

The best picture reference is Bizarre Guitars of the 60's but it is pricey. I have a copy for sale here:


Expensive yes, but it is out of print and all the copies I have obtained recently had to come from Japan. It's expensive there as well, check out what this Japanese dealer wants for his copy:



The best history book is Guitar Stories Volume 1 by Michael Wright which devotes a chapter to 60's Japanese guitar production. Also pricey ($120) if you can find a copy. Don't confuse Volume 1 with Volume 2 which can be had for $15-$20.

Here is a Vintage Guitar article by Michael that runs down a little history and the models produced:



Your guitar may or may not have had a logo originally. It's hard to find the earlier style logos that would have appeared on your guitar.