Watkins Rapier 44 – 1959 – Serial Number 018

Here’s a Greenwich Market–style listing for your Watkins Rapier 44:

Here at Tom’s Guitar Shop in the heart of Greenwich Market, we’re thrilled to have a real slice of British guitar history hanging on the wall, a Watkins Rapier 44, serial number 018. Early, rare, and full of charm, this is one for the collectors and players alike.

The Rapier series was Jim Burns’ answer to the British guitar boom of the ’60s, offering stylish, forward-thinking designs at a time when imports were harder to come by. The 44 model was the top of the line, featuring four pickups, a distinctive control layout, and Watkins’ own tremolo system. It was made to turn heads as well as deliver a huge range of tones, from warm, jazzy textures to biting surf twang.

This one, with serial number 018, comes from right at the start of production, making it a particularly special example. Despite its age, it still holds up beautifully as a playable vintage guitar — lightweight, resonant, and full of quirky character you just can’t fake.

Specs at a glance:

• Model: Watkins Rapier 44
• Year: Early ’60s (serial no. 018)
• Pickups: 4 Watkins single-coils
• Controls: Selector switches, master tone & volume
• Tremolo: Original Watkins unit
• Finish: Natural
• Condition: Vintage player’s grade, with honest wear that suits it perfectly

A proper British-made classic, and with such an early serial number, this is one that’ll stand out in any collection.