1969 Ampeg Dan Armstrong Lucite

Maker Ampeg (American, founded 1946)

Maker Dan Armstrong (American, 1934 - 2004)

Date1969

ClassificationsMusic

Description1969 Ampeg Dan Armstrong Lucite guitar, serial number A2465D. The guitar features a clear acrylic polymer body, bolt-on neck, and interchangeable pickups.

Commonly referred to as the "Plexi," "Lucite," or "See Through" guitar, these clear acrylic guitars were created by noted luthier Dan Armstrong (1934-2004) in partnership with Ampeg. Ampeg was founded in 1946 as a manufacturer of amplifiers and pickups. In 1968, Ampeg purchased Grammer Guitars with the goal of entering the guitar market. In 1969, Ampeg hired Armstrong to produce a line of clear guitars and basses. Armstrong consulted with luthier Matt Umanov, and the pair designed an electric guitar that featured an acrylic body, which were hand-cut using saws and routers (later models were carved using CNC machines). They chose maple and rosewood for the necks. Pickup builder Bill Lawrence created the removable pickup design for the prototype versions and a small number of production models. The guitars were heavy, but noted for their long sustain due to the acrylic body. Armstrong's first run of Lucite guitars were produced from 1969 to 1971 with later re-issues by Ampeg.

The Lucite guitar has been used by players such as Keith Richards (The Rolling Stones), Joe Perry (Aerosmith), and Tom Verlaine (Television).