AxCalibur Industries

Absolutely pristine Epiphone Sheraton made in 1983 at the Matsumoko factory in Japan. I challenge you to find a better specimen.  Pay attention to the details with each photo. I have included some photos of a Korean Epi Les Paul with descriptions to show the differences between the Japanese and the Korean models of Epiphones. You can click on the bottom right corner of each photo for a larger view.

Here is a close up of the headstock logo, noticethe beautiful abalone and the use of the script lettering, specifically the capital "E" in the logo.

By comparison, here is a shot of the headstock and logo on my Korean Les Paul. Note the difference in lettering and the use of mother of pearl instead of abalone.

Japanese MMK 75 pickups. These are Japanese versions of the Gibson 57PAF pickups, made by Matsumoko, hence the MMK abbreviation.

By contrast, here are the Epi BHK Korean pickups. Note the Epiphone logo (Name) as well as the ID sticker showing in this case that it is a neck pickup for a DOT335 or a LesPaul.

Here are photos of the Japanese ABR-1 style bridge. Note the word JAPAN cast into the underside, and the small adjustment posts that screw directly into the body.

Now compare that to this Korean Nashville style bridge that uses threaded insetrs in the body and heavies 8mm adjustment posts.

While difficult to photograph, close inspection of this photo will show the oversized pots used by the Matsumoko factory. Korean models use standard sized 500k pots. Also note the binding on the inside edges of the "F" holes.

Here is a photo of the 5 ply neck & headstock. Notice the serial number is "Inked" under the clear coat.

Here, on my Korean model, you see the serial number is painted and begins with an "S" which stands for Samick Instrument Company in Seoul, S. Korea. Korean models were usually made by either Samick, or Cort.

Below are several photos for your enjoyment of various parts showing the pristine condition of the instrument.