Finally after some exhaustive research I have acquired plenty of info on this elusive guitar. Thanks go out to Tokai Joe, Pacifix Ltd and Tokai Guitar for their help and info.
I purchased this new recently in Shibuya, Tokyo at an Ikebe shop. It was listed as a Tokai LS-5th Limited Premium Quilted Top Violin Finish. It is a Pacifix Exclusive edition and there is no catalog or manual for reference.
So what I have found out is that it has Tom Holmes (JP) J-453 Limited P/U's, polished nickel tops. They are top grade P/U's designed to replicate the '59 PAF's. It is a '59 replica dimensionally and has the '59 replica case to complete the set. Construction is based on one piece African Mahogany back with maple top. Rosewood fret board with SBB-213 frets, headstock set at 18 deg, normal tenon neck set and a cow bone nut. It is finished with Polyurethane. It has the Japan version head piece with the Pacifix Exclusive script added. Hardware is Gotoh and it's weight is listed at 4 kg, equal to 8 lb 13 oz. I was told it was based on a LS-100Q, then upgraded.
Here are a few pics.
It plays quite well and has great balance. The '59 neck has a good feel and it has great looks overall. The matched quilted halves is striking to see up close and with the binding is superb. Truly premium quality work.
I'll have this baby for a long, long time.
I purchased this new recently in Shibuya, Tokyo at an Ikebe shop. It was listed as a Tokai LS-5th Limited Premium Quilted Top Violin Finish. It is a Pacifix Exclusive edition and there is no catalog or manual for reference.
So what I have found out is that it has Tom Holmes (JP) J-453 Limited P/U's, polished nickel tops. They are top grade P/U's designed to replicate the '59 PAF's. It is a '59 replica dimensionally and has the '59 replica case to complete the set. Construction is based on one piece African Mahogany back with maple top. Rosewood fret board with SBB-213 frets, headstock set at 18 deg, normal tenon neck set and a cow bone nut. It is finished with Polyurethane. It has the Japan version head piece with the Pacifix Exclusive script added. Hardware is Gotoh and it's weight is listed at 4 kg, equal to 8 lb 13 oz. I was told it was based on a LS-100Q, then upgraded.
Here are a few pics.
It plays quite well and has great balance. The '59 neck has a good feel and it has great looks overall. The matched quilted halves is striking to see up close and with the binding is superb. Truly premium quality work.
I'll have this baby for a long, long time.