It is no secret that I love catalogue guitars. There is something magical about them. It could be the pickups or simply the avant-garde styling. What ever the reasons that attract guitarists to them has to be, in my opinion, warmly applauded. While putting together our “Rogues Gallery” it occurred to me that I have not acknowledged Sears, Roebuck and Company, the architects of the catalogue guitar. Over the past couple of years or so I have endeavoured to design numerous catalogue inspired guitars. “The Hound Dog”, “The Mannish Boy” and “The Sunset Strip” are three examples that echo the golden age of guitar design. Shamefully, I asked myself the question. Could I design a modern day Sears and Roebuck catalogue guitar?

Where to begin? The brand of guitar that Sears and Roebuck are fondly remembered for is Silvertone. Countless guitar heroes started out playing them because they were well made and inexpensive to buy. Bob Dylan, John Fogerty, Dave Grohl, Jerry Garcia, James Hetfield, David Linley and Jack White, to name but a few, they all played Silvertones. Sears and Roebuck commissioned various manufacturers to make them, notably Danelectro, Harmony, Kay, National and Teisco Del Rey. Today, these guitars, if in good condition, are much sought after by guitar connoisseurs and collectors alike. Iconic guitarists such as Derek Trucks, Mark Knopfler and Bruce Springsteen play vintage Silvertones.

In recognition of Sears, Roebuck and Company and the Silvertone brand, I have come up with a contemporary reflection that, I hope, is worthy of the Silvertone name. “The Catalogue Guitar” as I have called her is based on the 1452 Hornet, a guitar made in the mid to late 1960s by Danelectro. This model was popular back in the day because it came with an amplifier built into the carrying case. I chose the Hornet as my blueprint because I love the shape of the body and pickguard. I have added a subtle Mainstream touch to the design that I think adds to it. If this concept makes production, she will be fitted with two of our tried and tested catalogue inspired single coils. If you are a manufacturer and like what we have created please get in touch because we would love to hear from you. As always, many thanks for your time and support. SR

"The Catalogue Guitar"

Inspired by Sears, Roebuck and Company.
(Bob G. Harrison/Raw Guitar Co. Single Coil Pickups)