Eastman E1SS-LTD - not quite so limited in number?

[PedrosUK]

Hello All
I just wanted send an update about my E1SS-LTD.  I bought it just a year ago and still love it.  Sometimes I think it actually gets better if I play it for prolonged periods - is that possible or just my ears deceiving me?  The only thing I would change is the neck profile which I find slightly too chunky at the nut end. Although I have got used to it now, I still prefer the feel of my other guitar, a factory built Tanglewood TW15NS.  But all guitars are a compromise in one way or another and I still find this guitar is superb in the area that really counts - the sound!  Lovely and full and warm somehow and the body vibrates against your chest as it is played which is somehow rather comforting!  I removed the factory pickup and replaced it with a JJB Electronics 15mm Artist Series Prestige 330 and I can now get a nice acoustic sound if I have to plug in.
On the (slightly) negative side I was a bit miffed when I recently came across an advert for the same guitar at a shop in the UK which was number 260 of 450 (See picture).  When I bought the guitar I was told that there were only 250 made, 100 for Europe and 150 for USA.  So I contacted Eastman who have informed me that they also made 450 for the Chinese market and this must have been one of them shipped to Europe in error.  I must say I am now wondering if there were more made for other markets?
In a way it doesn't matter as the guitar remains great regardless of the number made but I do feel I was slightly deceived.  Or am I just naive?   

[UncleJesse]

It’s an $800 guitar. It’s not like it would be worth thousands because of a limited number being built. Enjoy it and let others enjoy one too

[Pura Vida]

I think I saw a video clip, where they talked about two sets of numbers.  One for North America and Europe, but then another set for the Asian market.  As mentioned, I don't think it has any impact on the value.  They're great guitars, especially for that price point.

[PedrosUK]

I think I saw a video clip, where they talked about two sets of numbers.  One for North America and Europe, but then another set for the Asian market.  As mentioned, I don't think it has any impact on the value.  They're great guitars, especially for that price point.

Absolutely great guitar and I would still have bought it if I had known.  It wasn't the value of the guitar that I was concerned about but just a feeling that I had been slightly misled.  
Anyway I forgot to add in my earlier post that I had changed the bone saddle for a Tusq one when I replaced the pickup and it seemed to make it even sweeter.  Although I suppose the difference could be due to the nut being directly against the bridge rather that on top of a piece of piezo wire?

[StrayMan]

Hello All
I just wanted send an update about my E1SS-LTD.  I bought it just a year ago and still love it.  Sometimes I think it actually gets better if I play it for prolonged periods - is that possible or just my ears deceiving me?  The only thing I would change is the neck profile which I find slightly too chunky at the nut end. Although I have got used to it now, I still prefer the feel of my other guitar, a factory built Tanglewood TW15NS.  But all guitars are a compromise in one way or another and I still find this guitar is superb in the area that really counts - the sound!  Lovely and full and warm somehow and the body vibrates against your chest as it is played which is somehow rather comforting!  I removed the factory pickup and replaced it with a JJB Electronics 15mm Artist Series Prestige 330 and I can now get a nice acoustic sound if I have to plug in.
On the (slightly) negative side I was a bit miffed when I recently came across an advert for the same guitar at a shop in the UK which was number 260 of 450 (See picture).  When I bought the guitar I was told that there were only 250 made, 100 for Europe and 150 for USA.  So I contacted Eastman who have informed me that they also made 450 for the Chinese market and this must have been one of them shipped to Europe in error.  I must say I am now wondering if there were more made for other markets?
In a way it doesn't matter as the guitar remains great regardless of the number made but I do feel I was slightly deceived.  Or am I just naive?   

Pretty new to the forum here, I own 3 Eastman's and just bought my 4th, an E1SS-LTD #1/250. I honestly wouldn't care if it was #1 of 2500 or #750/25500. These are fantastic guitars!! I would think if you are a collector and expected  or hoped the guitar would grow in value as the years moved on like a prewar Martin, then you may of been slighted. If your not a collector just enjoy the guitar!!

[AlanSam]

I agree with your point - 'Ltd' releases are mostly to do with marketing anyway. Also, welcome to our community. what are your other Eastmans can I ask?

[StrayMan]

I agree with your point - 'Ltd' releases are mostly to do with marketing anyway. Also, welcome to our community. what are your other Eastmans can I ask?

AlanSam, I think you are asking me, StrayMan? I currently own an AC322ce, a PCH3-GAce the E1SS which I just bought and should have Wed/Thurs. and an E10SS which unfortunately is literally splitting down the back seam. (it will cost more then what I paid for it to fix per 2 different luthiers.) I have been advised that the guitar was a Prototype model and Eastman, as I bought it used, can't/won't do anything. I decide to jus put a strip of Super glue down the back and a 1/4" strip of white vinyl tape covering the glue. I usually don't name my guitars but I'm considering calling it "Willie" in honor of Willie Nelsons guitar..... LOL!!! Still plays and sounds nice.  I also have a 5th,which is up for sale, an AC222ce

[TTiimm]

I'm not saying Eastman intentionally misled anyone. I don't know the facts.

In light of the recent thread about transparency and Eastman's Operations Director acknowledging the issue publicly on Facebook however, @PedrosUK has legitimate cause for concern.

Again, I don't know the facts. To a greater or lesser degree, the internet has made us all skimmers of information rather than readers who comprehend deeply. There could be a reasonable explanation. It would be good to know.

His question shouldn't be dismissed because "It's only an $800 guitar" however. I don't think there is a dollar threshold under which honesty no longer matters.

This is just my opinion. Everyone is entitled to their own view.


-Tim-

[Pura Vida]

I don't think they set out to mislead anyone, but it's definitely confusing to have two sets of the same "limited" guitar.  But it really isn't limited in terms of being something special that will increase in value over time b/c of its rarity... it's simply a limited run of that model that won't be ongoing.

My daughter has a 2018 E1OO-LTD (12-fret 00) that is number xx out of 130.  For us, it just means there are 129 others out there with the same guitar (maybe more in the Asian market; who knows?).  She also has an E10OM-LTD, which has a standard serial number, but through some inquiries with Eastman, I learned was one of only 70 made (globally).  And based on the COA date, she might possibly own the last one made.  Thanks again to NoiseFloor for selling it to us!

[oldtone]

Remember when these were for sale new? They were $800. The Acoustic Shoppe has one(used of course) listed for $920. So much for depreciating.