Custom Luthier 5-String Bluegrass Banjo by Esa Hokkanen (Varve Oy, 1989) – Gibson Mastertone Replica (used)

Custom Luthier 5-String Bluegrass Banjo by Esa Hokkanen is a truly unique piece of Finnish luthier history. This is a premium, custom-built 5-string Bluegrass banjo handmade by the highly respected luthier Esa Hokkanen (Varve Oy, Jyväskylä). Built in 1989 (serial stamped 3 1989), this instrument was crafted as a high-end tribute to the legendary Gibson Mastertone.

It features exquisite craftsmanship, high-grade materials, and a powerful, authentic pre-war style bluegrass bark.

Key Features & Specs:

• Model Style: 5-String Gibson Mastertone Tribute/Replika.
• Neck & Resonator: Stunning flamed maple with a rich, glossy sunburst finish.
• Fretboard: Premium dark fretboard adorned with the iconic, highly detailed "Hearts & Flowers" mother-of-pearl inlays and a custom "Mastertone" block.
• Headstock: Classic Gibson-style double-cut headstock featuring beautiful custom pearl inlays of the luthier’s name "Hokkanen" and floral motifs.
• Hardware: Equipped with high-quality planetary tuners with pearloid buttons, a beautifully engraved chrome armrest, a vintage-style tailpiece, and a premium Five-Star banjokalvo (head).
• Electronics: Outfitted with a high-quality integrated pickup system connected to an external rim-mounted control unit (Volume/Tone) – completely stage- and gig-ready.

Condition & Inclusions:

• Condition: Flawless condition. The banjo has been kept meticulously. Bellows/rim structure are solid, the neck is perfectly straight, frets show minimal to no wear, and the setup is low and fast. The electronics and mechanics function flawlessly.
• Included: Comes with a fitted vintage hard-shell case in excellent condition to protect this masterpiece.
• This is not a mass-produced factory instrument; it is a one-of-a-kind collector’s item and a professional-grade workhorse built by one of Finland's finest vintage guitar and banjo experts of the era.

Worldwide shipping can be discussed, but local pickup in Helsinki is highly preferred.