It's just a bit of solder.
I don't like this mod because the tonal changes when you lower the guitar volume knob can be very useful, especially when recording. That is part of what makes a Les Paul so versatile.
Looks like a legit 1980 TE-50 to me. Two piece body & burst finish. One of the lower end models but still nice. 7 digit serial, neck screws look correct. Would be nice to have interior photos.
Gibson always charged more for natural finish - it required higher grade woods free from flaws. Sunburst was standard to hide imperfections.
Look at the model numbers...
J-45 (sunburst)
J-50 (natural, higher price)
LG-2 (sunburst)
LG-3 (natural, higher price)
Happened to see this Ibanez Rocket Roll on ebay now up to about $1800
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Nice-76-Ibanez-2387-Flying-V-Korina-Finish-Lawsuit-Fantastic-Condition-1976-MINT-/330849224425
I've played a few of them and also a few equivalent Tokai Flying V models, the TFV70. No comparison in...
I think that was a great buy, the case alone is worth a good few hundred. Plus you get an ST100 with it!
It looks like a two piece body, which I would expect. I think the figure in the wood is a little more subtle than I would expect, and I'm surprised to see those knots or mineral streaks on...
So they went back to the bell shape in the mid 80's? That's what I get for ignoring Tokais made after 1983 :)
Sorry, hope no harm was done to the sale... carry on!
$850 is a collector price. I think it's high for the changed parts and later logo.
Let's look at some facts:
-TE50 is the lowest grade Tele
-mid-80's production less desirable than early 80's for TE
-later logo, less desirable than Fender style spaghetti logo
-replaced pickups
-brass nut, who...
This is no guarantee of quality work. Make sure to ask how the job will be done before leaving the guitar.
Do you really need Grovers? If your Kluson style tuners have too much lash find another set that will fit without changes. There are even locking Klusons available if you think this is...