Collings 290 Custom 1959 Faded Crimson

This one-off custom Collings 290 was specially commissioned by CR Guitars, featuring distinctive appointments directly inspired by the Collings I35 LC Vintage model. Special specifications include the aged finish and hardware, vintage-thin rosewood fingerboard with ungrained ivoroid binding, and premium electronic components like the Luxe Bumblebee capacitors. It is a truly unique instrument that combines the straightforward 290 platform with carefully selected vintage-inspired details.

This one-off custom 290 was built at my request, incorporating specs inspired by the celebrated Collings I35 LC Vintage model. The beauty of this guitar begins with the straightforward design platform of the Collings 290—perhaps the finest remake of the 'original' set-neck guitar of this type—but elevates it to another level entirely.

While maintaining the elegant simplicity that makes the 290 special (body, neck, two pickups, no extras, no carved areas, no flamed figured wood), this custom creation introduces a suite of thoughtful vintage-inspired details that transform it into something exceptional. The 1959 faded crimson finish is deep and extraordinary, creating an organic design steeped in guitar history and executed with ultimate perfection by Collings guitars.

Beyond its striking appearance, what truly distinguishes this 290 is its remarkable tonal character. The ThroBak KZ90 pickups deliver substantial girth and roar while preserving a sweet, articulate clarity that allows each note to sing with presence. This balance between power and precision makes the instrument incredibly versatile, handling everything from delicate passages to full-throttle musical expressions effortlessly.

Running your hands along the neck reveals craftsmanship that resonates with vintage authenticity. As a self-professed neck fanatic, I can confidently say this 1959-style carve, with its rolled shoulders and perfect vintage-like taper, absolutely nails the feel and mojo of the era. It's my favorite Collings neck profile, creating an immediate connection between the player and the instrument. The thinner fingerboard - another I35 LC Vintage-inspired spec I requested - further enhances the playing experience, providing just the right feel under your fingertips.
The lightweight, resonant Honduran mahogany body contributes to a supremely comfortable playing experience that invites long sessions. When playing, the tone becomes visceral—you can literally feel the notes vibrating through your body, providing immediate responsiveness that creates an intimate connection with every string pluck or chord strum.

Collings' renowned attention to detail shines throughout, with the warmly aged nitrocellulose lacquer in 1959 faded crimson, adding both visual depth and tactile pleasure. This finish is deep, an invitation to "pick me up and play me." The ungrained ivoroid fingerboard binding and vintage-thin rosewood board complement each other perfectly. At the same time, the premium Luxe Bumblebee capacitors - yet another thoughtful I35 LC Vintage-inspired specification - paired with CTS 500K pots ensure that the electrical components match the exceptional quality of the physical construction. No corners were cut anywhere in its creation.

In a world of flashy, feature-laden instruments, this custom Collings 290 stands as a testament to the enduring power of fundamentals done right, enhanced by carefully selected vintage-inspired details. It reminds us that great guitar-making begins with respect for tone, feel, and the pure joy of playing - a truth this exceptional 290 eloquently expresses with every note.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.

ABOUT COLLINGS GUITARS
Bill Collings moved from Ohio to Texas in the mid 1970’s. Spurred by a lack of interest in medical school, this move enabled him to combine lifelong interests in both guitars and tools into the challenge of stringed instrument building and repair. After a couple of years in Houston, several guitars and a few banjos later, he headed west to southern California. Making it only as far as Austin, where he shared shops with fellow luthiers Tom Ellis and Mike Stevens. From there, he set up his own small shop in a wooden "one car" garage. His reputation for outstanding quality and meticulous attention to detail quickly spread. In 1989, he rented a 1000 square foot space and hired two helpers. Fast forward to present day where Collings craftsmanship is respected by professional and amateur musicians alike…anyone on the quest for quality. Some of these include artists; Keith Richards, Lyle Lovett, Pete Townshend, Emmylou Harris, Andy Summers, David Crosby, Chris Hillman, Joni Mitchell, Don Felder, John Sebastian, Lou Reed, John Fogerty, Tim O'Brien, Pete Huttlinger, Kenny Smith, Brian May, Joan Baez, John Prine, Nigel Tufnel of Spinal Tap, and Steven Spielberg to name a few. You owe it to yourself to try one.