Among vintage guitars, there are rare pieces — and then there are Zemaitis guitars.

Handbuilt by Tony Zemaitis in the 1970s, these instruments were never mass-produced, but individually crafted for players who wanted something truly unique. With a yearly output often cited in the single digits, Zemaitis guitars are scarce by nature.

What makes this example particularly special is its flame maple top construction. While Zemaitis is best known for his iconic metal-front and pearl-front guitars, flame-top electrics were only produced in very small numbers — typically as one-off custom builds. These should not be confused with his later, more stripped-back “student-style” instruments; this is a fully realised, high-end custom piece from his classic period.

Offered here is a super rare, book-matched, hand-carved Flame Top Zemaitis, affectionately nicknamed “Honey” due to its warm, golden hue — a colour that leans more toward rich amber than traditional red flame finishes.

The level of detail is exactly what you would expect from Zemaitis at his peak:

• The beautifully shaped and unique saddle

• Signature green dot inlays

• The elegant, rounded cutaway that continues into a sculpted back

• The distinctive Zemaitis switch layout and metal switch plate

• Grover tuners completing the package

This is not just visually striking — it is a serious player. Equipped with 1977 Gibson Patent Number humbuckers, it delivers a powerful, rich, and complex tone with clarity, depth, and authority. The guitar also features an original out-of-phase switch, adding further tonal versatility.

Weighing 4 kg (8.8 lbs), it has a solid yet balanced feel.

The previous owner — having owned numerous Zemaitis guitars as well as original 1960 Gibson Les Pauls and several Bursts — regarded this as the best sounding Zemaitis he encountered.

A truly exceptional and rarely seen variant of Zemaitis craftsmanship — combining the builder’s legendary handwork with a configuration produced only in very limited numbers.

Comes with an original 1977 Gibson case. As shipped originally.