RetroSpec
St. Helens x RetroSpec Exclusive Series Les Paul Lightweight Aluminium Wraparound Tailpiece - Nickel
St. Helens x RetroSpec Exclusive Series Les Paul Lightweight Aluminium Wraparound Tailpiece - Nickel
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We’re proud to offer the St. Helens x RetroSpec Exclusive Series Wraparound Tailpiece — a vintage-correct lightweight aluminum design built to capture the tone, feel, and response of original 1950s Gibson wraparounds.
Original ‘50s wraparound tailpieces were remarkably light, and that wasn’t by accident. Lightweight aluminum allows the guitar to resonate more freely, transferring string energy directly into the body. The result is increased clarity and that unmistakable dry, woody sustain that defines a great vintage Les Paul.
This collaboration with St. Helens is rooted in detailed analysis of original parts, with custom alloy composition and hardness carefully matched to vintage examples. Unlike modern reproductions that prioritize convenience over accuracy, this piece is engineered for tonal authenticity — right down to the way it vibrates.
Crafted from die-cast aluminum and finished in nickel plating without a copper underlayer, it reflects true vintage construction methods that influence both tone and natural aging. Each unit is hand-sanded and polished, giving it a subtly broken-in look with individual character — no two are exactly alike.
The “Classic Bolt” 50s-style design features compensated shaping for angled installation, along with carefully controlled ear thickness and fit to ensure consistent tonal response across every unit.
Whether you're restoring a vintage instrument, dialing in a conversion, or chasing that golden-era wraparound tone, this is as close as it gets.
Experience the response, resonance, and feel of a true vintage wraparound — only from RetroSpec.
Wraparound Tailpiece Specs:
- Material: Lightweight die-cast aluminum (custom vintage-correct alloy)
- Finish: Nickel plating without copper underlayer
- Design: 50s-style “Classic Bolt” wraparound
- Compensation: Pre-compensated for angled install
- Stud spacing: 82 mm (vintage spec)
- Includes: 2 sets of round-head intonation screws
- Construction: Hand-sanded and polished for authentic vintage appearance
- Fit: Controlled ear thickness and precision fit for tonal consistency
*Studs not included.
*Please allow 3–5 business days for shipping. All parts are custom finished per order.
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Our Brand Collective:
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Historic Makeovers
Historic MakeoversKim, a legend in the vintage guitar world, has spent over 50 years restoring, buying, and selling classic instruments, especially 1950s Les Pauls.
His passion led to founding Retrospec and later Historic Makeovers®, dedicated to making modern guitars look, feel, and sound vintage.
Nearly two decades on, his craftsmanship and innovation continue to set the standard in vintage-style restoration. -
Real Deal Series
RDSThe Real Deal Series (RDS) honors the golden age of guitar making with historically precise craftsmanship, hand-selected vintage details, and timeless artistry. Guided by Kim LaFleur’s enduring vision, Historic Makeovers and RetroSpec bring each instrument’s authentic character, feel, and tone vividly to life, celebrating the passion, innovation, and soulful legacy that continue to inspire musicians and collectors around the world.
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RetroSpec Parts
RetroSpec PartsSince 2008, RetroSpec has been dedicated to creating and supplying the finest, most authentic vintage-inspired guitar parts available. Trusted by luthiers and players alike, RetroSpec components enhance vintage Les Pauls, Gibson Les Pauls, and ambitious conversion projects. Each part is thoughtfully crafted to upgrade and restore both vintage and modern instruments, including the Gibson ES-335 to Les Paul Junior guitars.