Gibson Custom has officially announced the release of a meticulous recreation of one of the most legendary instruments in rock history: the Michael Schenker 1971 Flying V Collector’s Edition. Known for his era-defining work with UFO, Scorpions, and the Michael Schenker Group, Schenker’s signature black-and-white V-shaped guitar has inspired generations of players, including Metallica’s Kirk Hammett.
The History of a Legend
The original guitar began its life as a 1971 Gibson Medallion Flying V (specifically Medallion #56). Originally finished in Cherry Red, the instrument underwent several transformations under Schenker’s care, being painted black before eventually settling into the iconic black-and-white split design that fans recognise today.
This specific guitar is so revered that it eventually found its way into the personal collection of Kirk Hammett, who considers it “the most influential Flying V ever made.” To ensure total accuracy, Gibson Custom utilized advanced 3D scans of the original vintage instrument to capture every curve and quirk of the neck and body.
Premium Specifications and Build
The Collector’s Edition is more than just a visual tribute; it is a high-performance machine built to the exact specifications of Schenker’s prime years.
- Body & Neck: The guitar features a solid mahogany body and a three-piece mahogany neck with a volute. The neck profile is an exact “Artist Profile” replica derived from the 3D scans.
- Finish: The nitrocellulose lacquer finish is aged by the world-renowned Murphy Lab to match the wear and tear of the original.
- Electronics: It is powered by a pair of uncovered T-Top humbuckers with Alnico 5 magnets, providing the “bite” and clarity essential for classic hard rock tones. The electronics are hand-wired with 500k CTS potentiometers.
- Hardware: The guitar includes Schaller M6 tuners and a classic ABR-1 bridge.
A Rare Collector’s Opportunity
This release is strictly limited to just 50 units worldwide. Each instrument is hand-signed by Michael Schenker himself on the back of the headstock.
Collectors who manage to secure one of these rare pieces will also receive:
- A custom replica flight case featuring Michael Schenker Group (MSG) graphics.
- A commemorative mahogany display block featuring a #56 Medallion.
- A Certificate of Authenticity presented in a matching black-and-white folio.
For those looking to capture a piece of rock history, this model represents the pinnacle of Gibson’s Custom Shop craftsmanship. Given the extremely limited run and Schenker’s enduring legacy, these guitars are expected to become highly sought-after treasures in the vintage and signature guitar markets.
