'58 ABR-1 "Torpedo" Tune-O-Matic Bridge for Gibson® Guitars

Introducing the ’58 ABR-1 “Torpedo” Tune-O-Matic bridge! Norlin® and Advanced Plating® have teamed up to bring you yet another banger. We’ve kept this one under wraps for nearly two years and we’re finally ready to share it. Reverse engineered from an extensive selection of genuine 1958 ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridges, this reproduction goes far beyond appearance alone. Destructive laboratory analysis was used to determine the original materials and plating processes, allowing us to get as close to the construction of the original examples as possible. The substrate follows the original material specifications identified through analysis, while the saddles and intonation screws are manufactured from the same 360 brass alloy used in the originals. The signature “torpedo” profile has been carefully recreated, capturing the distinctive curvature of the original bridge without excessive edge rollover. Not every vintage ABR-1 was heavily rounded and it was made a point to preserve that variation in the reproduction. The result is an authentic vintage profile that remains just as comfortable to play as an original. One of the most important differences between this bridge and many modern ABR-1 reproductions lies beneath the finish. Based on destructive lab results of original 1950s examples, the plating process incorporates cyanide copper rather than the acid copper commonly used in modern plating. In the plating world, acid copper acts much like Bondo® or body filler. It deposits a relatively thick layer that can fill pits and surface imperfections in castings and other substrates, helping create the smooth finish commonly associated with modern plated parts. However, that additional thickness can also influence the mechanical characteristics of a component, which is one reason plating thickness and process matter when reproducing vintage hardware. Cyanide copper serves a different purpose. It deposits an extremely thin layer that promotes adhesion between the substrate and subsequent plating layers. On zinc die-cast components such as the ABR-1 bridge base, this layer is critical to the plating process. By reproducing this period-correct approach, the bride stays true to the construction methods identified in the original vintage examples rather than simply applying a modern finish to a vintage-inspired casting. While historical accuracy was the foundation of this project, customer feedback and real-world playing experience helped guide a few thoughtful refinements. The saddles feature a slightly softened edge for improved palm comfort, while retaining the characteristic cutting lines found on original vintage examples. The goal was to preserve the unmistakable look of the original saddles without sacrificing ergonomics. The intonation screws have also been designed for a snug fit, rather than the loose fit often encountered on original ABR-1 bridges. This helps minimize unwanted movement and the potential for rattling while keeping the assembly secure. Staying true to the early ABR-1 design, the ’58 “Torpedo” features no retaining wire. The wire-retainer design came later, beginning in 1963, so it's been left it off to preserve the clean, original appearance and construction of the 1958 examples. Nearly two years in the making, the ’58 ABR-1 “Torpedo” Tune-O-Matic Bridge represents our commitment to getting the details right; from the underlying materials and plating processes to the subtle contours and fit of each individual component. Because getting the look right is only part of the story. The details you can’t see matter just as much. Individual Norlin® "torpedo" ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge for electric guitar. Does not include bridge posts or thumbwheels. Compatible with Gibson®, Heritage® and Jimmy Wallace Guitars®. Base Material: Zinc Country of Manufacture: Made in USA Post Hole Spacing: Post Hole Diameter: Radius: 12" Saddles: Unnotched Brass String Spacing: 52mm Weight: Available in: Gold SKU: 1346G Nickel SKU: 1346N ** MATCHING HARDWARE ** ABR-1 Bridge Posts (Brass) Gold SKU: 3050G Nickel SKU: 3051N ABR-1 Bridge Posts (Steel) Gold SKU: 3052G Nickel SKU:3052N ABR-1 Conversion Posts Asian Bridge to Vintage ABR-1 Gold SKU: 3055G Nickel SKU: 3055N Tune-O-Matic to Vintage ABR-1 Gold SKU: 3054G Nickel SKU: 3054N ABR-1 Thumbwheels (Coarse Knurl) Black Chrome SKU: 3032BC Chrome SKU: 3032C Gold SKU: 3030G Nickel SKU: 3031N ABR-1 Thumbwheels (Domed) Gold SKU: 3053G Nickel SKU: 3053N ABR-1 Thumbwheels (Fine Knurl) Black Chrome SKU: 3042BC Chrome SKU: 3042C Gold SKU: 3040G Nickel SKU: 3041N ABR-1 Thumbwheels (Vintage Thin) Gold SKU: 3043G Nickel SKU: 3043N ABR-1 TOM-Style Bridge Posts Black Chrome SKU: 1235BC Chrome SKU: 1235C Gold SKU: 1235G Nickel SKU: 1235N ABR-1 TOM-Style Bridge Posts w/ Hex Broach Black Chrome SKU: 1236BC Chrome SKU: 1236C Gold SKU: 1236G Nickel SKU: 1236N Advanced Music Products (AMP) is a division of Advanced Plating, Inc (API). Engineering and manufacturing guitar parts for the titans of the industry. Made in the USA for over 60 years. OEM fit and finish. Trust the brand your favorite brand's trust. Norlin® is the historic brand you’ve trusted since 1969. Specializing in replacement guitar parts for modification, repair and refurbishment. Ushering in a new Norlin® era. Another Quality Product from Norlin®