Framus Electric Guitar Appraisal

Framus Jimmy Boud 5/144 Hollywood Archtop Electric Guitar

This is a vintage mid-century archtop electric guitar manufactured by the German maker Framus, specifically the Jimmy Boud model. The instrument features a classic sunburst finish over a spruce or maple body with elegant f-holes, typical of jazz-style hollow-body guitars. It is constructed with a single Florentine cutaway for upper fret access and an arched laminate body. Notable features include a single large chrome-plated pickup in the neck position, a white-bordered pickguard featuring the 'Jimmy Boud' signature script, and two control knobs (volume and tone). The headstock is quite distinctive with a white laminate face, a 'V' inlay, and an stylized 'F' logo at the top. The fingerboard is adorned with large block pearl inlays on a dark rosewood or ebony surface. The hardware includes a chrome tailpiece and an adjustable bridge. The guitar appears to be in good vintage condition with a natural aged patina and minor surface wear consistent with age, likely dating to the 1960s. It is displayed in its original or period-correct brown hardshell case with a plush purple interior, which adds significant value and protection. The craftsmanship represents high-quality European mass-production of the era, reflecting a unique aesthetic blend often sought by collectors of vintage international instruments.