1980 Navigator SG (SGC-180), 6.57lbs, 44mm nut, Custom Order, ESP

Name: 1980 Navigator SG (SGC-180), 6.57lbs, 44mm nut, Custom Order, ESP
Brand: imima
Price: 1699.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$1,699.00 USD

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No sales tax on all US orders

1980 Navigator SG in black—from ESP’s now defunct vintage reproduction subsidiary. Appears almost dark green in certain lighting, due to the yellowing of the clear coat.

Built circa 1980 by ESP's original manufacturing arm Craftsman Co., Ltd.—likely predating the Toshima-ku factory ESP opened in 1981. This early Navigator is from ESP’s formative years as Japan's first full-custom order guitar maker.

ESP stamped pots, dated 1980.

Aesthetically identical to the SGC-180 in the 1983 Navigator catalog.

Note: neck angle is a bit shallow—for 1.5mm action the bridge is lowered almost all the way to the body. Running double slim pickup mounting rings to compensate.

This was my main SG until I switched to the Greco SS800. Lightweight, resonant, and stock pickups sound great.

100% fully functional. No breaks or repairs.

Set up with D'Addario 10-46 strings, playing well up and down the neck with proper intonation.

Includes newer Canadian-made Gibson USA case.

Specifications

- Lacquer (not nitro) finish
- Mahogany body and neck
- Rosewood fretboard
- 24.75" scale
- 12" radius
- Medium "U" neck profile
- Nut measures 1.732" (44mm)
- Depth measures .852" at the first fret, and .960" at the twelfth
- 6.57lbs

Condition

Cosmetically the 45+ year old instrument is in very good shape, with a various minor dings, chips, scratches and finish wear commensurate with age. Black finish has superficial finish marks and hazing throughout. Clear coat has yellowed with age. Chips/dings on bottom body contour by strap button. Minor dings/chips on tip of headstock.

Frets have minor wear. No divots/fretting out/etc. Back of neck is clean with a few very minor dings.

Modifications

- Pickup mounting rings swapped (originals included)
- Tuners likely replaced

Return Policy

All instruments are sold as-described and cannot be returned unless they arrive in a condition different from how it was described and/or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging and accessories.