Delving into the history of guitars can often lead to fascinating discoveries, especially when personal experiences intersect with documented records. Recently, while exploring the internet, I stumbled upon an incomplete listing in the Hohner Historical Guitar database regarding a model I once owned: the Hohner HG 310 LE. My experience with this instrument suggests a need for clarification, particularly for enthusiasts and collectors interested in limited edition guitars.
My journey with the HG 310 LE began in 1975 when I purchased what I believe was a 1974 model. The investment at the time was around C$180 for the guitar and an additional C$50 for its case. Even then, it was evident that this was not just any guitar. Handcrafted in Japan, the HG 310 LE exuded quality and attention to detail that set it apart.
The guitar boasted premium features: a spruce top for resonant clarity, rosewood sides and back for rich tonal depth, and an ebony neck for smooth playability. A black pickguard and a HOHNER decal on the headstock, reminiscent of the iconic Martin D-35, added to its aesthetic appeal. The herringbone binding and back strip, along with simple fleur-de-lis fingerboard inlays, further highlighted its sophisticated design. These features are often hallmarks of limited edition guitars, emphasizing craftsmanship and unique design elements.
Over the years, the HG 310 LE proved its durability and quality. In the early 1980s, around 1980 or 1981, I had the neck reset and three frets replaced to maintain optimal playability. Beyond this minor maintenance, no other work was required until I eventually sold it in 2017. Even after decades of playing, the action and neck remained in good condition, though nearing time for another reset. Remarkably, the guitar showed no signs of bellying, cracks, or crazing, and the tuning posts remained reliably tight. The fingerboard, however, did bear testament to years of use, displaying considerable wear. Arthritis eventually diminished my playing enjoyment, leading to the difficult decision to part with this exceptional instrument. In retrospect, its resilience surpassed that of some Martin D-28s I’ve encountered, a testament to the careful construction and quality materials of this particular Hohner model. Crucially, throughout my ownership, this HG 310 LE never bore a serial number.
This lack of a serial number is a key point of divergence from the information currently available online. My understanding, corroborated by discussions with other guitar enthusiasts over the years, is that HG 310 models manufactured in or before 1975 – and possibly later – were not assigned serial numbers. The prevailing theory suggests these guitars were commissioned as special, limited edition pieces for Hohner between 1973 and 1975. A later reissue from 1978 to 1985 did feature serial numbers and subtle variations in construction. While concrete documentation remains elusive, and some details may rely on memory and anecdotal evidence, the consistent narrative points towards a distinct characteristic of these early, limited run HG 310 LE guitars.
Examining the Historical List further reveals two points that warrant reconsideration:
- Production Dates: The list indicates a production run from 1978 to 1985. However, my ownership of a 1974 (or possibly earlier) model clearly demonstrates production extending back to at least 1975, and likely earlier, for these non-serial numbered models. The 1978-85 run likely represents the serial-numbered reissue period. This distinction is vital for accurately cataloging the history of these limited edition instruments.
- Body Type: The list describes the HG 310 LE as semi-hollow body. My guitar, and indeed the 1978-85 models I have seen, were unequivocally standard dreadnought acoustic guitars, featuring traditional X-bracing, akin to a Martin D-28. The semi-hollow description is inaccurate and potentially misleading for those researching this model.
To further contribute to the accurate historical record of this noteworthy, limited edition guitar, I retain several photographs from when I sold the HG 310 LE in 2017. These images could provide visual evidence and further details for anyone interested in documenting or authenticating these early Hohner HG 310 LE guitars. Correcting these details ensures that the legacy of these finely crafted, limited edition guitars is accurately preserved for future generations of players and collectors.
