Emerging during the golden age of American archtop guitar production, the Epiphone Zephyr Cutaway stands as a testament to the company’s long-standing commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Epiphone’s history stretches back to the late 1800s, and by the mid-20th century the New York–based firm had become one of Gibson’s strongest competitors, producing professional-grade instruments favored by jazz musicians and working players alike.
 
The Zephyr was developed during this highly competitive period and quickly became one of Epiphone’s most visible and successful electric models.
Built around a 17-inch full-depth body, the Zephyr was designed to deliver a rich, open acoustic response while maintaining clarity when amplified. Its deeper cutaway distinguishes it from many comparable guitars of the era, allowing noticeably improved access to the upper frets and making it more versatile for modern playing styles. This particular example was manufactured in 1956 at Epiphone’s Manhattan, New York factory, during the final year before the company was acquired by Gibson in 1957. Instruments from this late New York period are widely regarded as the pinnacle of Epiphone’s original production.
 
The laminated maple construction produces a warm, balanced tone with strong projection and excellent resistance to feedback. Electronics consist of a DeArmond Dynasonic pickup, the same pickup design famously used on Gretsch 6120 models from 1956–57. Known for their powerful output, clarity, and dynamic response, these pickups perform equally well for traditional jazz, blues, swing, and early rock ’n’ roll applications.
 
Finished in a classic sunburst, the guitar features the iconic Epiphone “bikini” headstock logo associated with mid-1950s models. The neck profile is comfortable, and the action is set low, making the instrument exceptionally easy to play across the entire fingerboard. The pickguard displays some natural waviness as a result of age, yet it remains structurally strong and stable. Please note that sections of the body binding are missing in a few different areas, consistent with the guitar’s age and long-term use.
Also the guitar had a neck reset (with visible refilled drilling holes visible on the back) which provides a low action.
 
This Zephyr is supplied with its original hard case, completing a highly desirable example of a late New York–era Epiphone.
 
Specifications
Model : Zephyr Cutaway       
Year : 1956
Serial : 69527
Body wood : laminated maple
Body size :17inch
Pickup : DeArmond Dynasonic
Controls : volume & tone (transparent buttons)