~1975 Zen-On RLN-50 MIJ Set Neck Les Paul – Mint - $750 (Groton)

Selling this Zen-On RLN-50, to pare down my collection. Built in Japan around 1975 at Hayashi Gakki. This is the same factory behind early Headway guitars and the work of Yasuo Momose, who would go on to become one of Japan’s most respected luthiers. Today, Momose’s designs and methods live on through Deviser, whose instruments are known for their build quality, tone, and restraint - often outperforming anything coming out of US custom shops. Zen-On was a large music publisher and distributor that briefly operated its own guitar lines during the post-Greco, pre-lawsuit era. They acquired Hayashi Gakki in the late '60s and commissioned instruments under house brands like Zen-On and Roje. These were never exported, and as a result, Zen-On-branded guitars are far rarer than other vintage MIJ models. They were made for the Japanese market at a time when build quality quietly peaked. This RLN-50 is one of the best-preserved examples from that era. Mint condition, with the only change being a modern Switchcraft toggle in place of the original. Specs: Solid body, set neck Maxon-style wide-range humbuckers Rosewood fingerboard with block inlays Gold hardware, multi-ply binding Switchcraft toggle installed Large, comfortable volute Weighs 8.2 lbs Includes original case and case candy Clear, full, and well-balanced. The neck is solid and smooth, and the guitar resonates with ease. Also selling a Roje-branded RLN-50 from the same factory and era. Same model, more wear Part of a larger push to move along the pieces that no longer fit what I’m aiming for. I'm focused on keeping the gear I actually use, and eventually turning parts of the collection into tools and space to start building from scratch. Trades: Open to trades if it’s something interesting. Mainly looking for: Woodworking tools (router table, drum sander, spindle sander, quality hand tools, etc.) Hardwood slabs Drum gear (high-quality snares, cymbals, hardware) Synths/keyboards (vintage or modern; curious to dip a toe into modular) Tube amp heads Feel free to offer. The worst I’ll say is no.