MODIFIED 1982 CHARVEL SAN DIMAS

Hasty mods made to this Charvel made it a choice workhorse for Gary in the early 80s

- Words Jamie Dickson Photography Phil Barker

Some of the guitars in Gary's collection represent the deep craft of heritage makers such as Gibson during the golden era of 50s and 60s lutherie.

Others, however, reflect the road-forged pragmatism and rough prototyping that progressive musicians sometimes demand of their gear. This much-modified 'bitsa' Charvel San Dimas is a perfect example of musicians and their techs jury-rigging guitars to meet needs not catered to by off-the-peg instruments or the pressing needs of busy touring, recording and promo schedules.

And it's fair to say that this particular guitar gave authenticator Steve Clarke more headaches than some of the others, partly due to its hastily fitted mods.