V class bracing

[Toucan256]

Looking at a 312 ce 2016 build according to the seller and states it is V class bracing. I didn't think it came in that early. Can anyone shed some light when they switched to V class?

[DennisG]

V class launched in 2018.

[ScottSD]

For what it's worth, even if you aren't sure of the year, if the nut is white, it's not V class.  V class nuts are black.

Scott

[Toucan256]

Thanks guys. I forgot about the nut difference.

[Frettingflyer]

Nut could be changed. Serial number tells you the year, ask for the serial number.

[Edward]

For what it's worth, even if you aren't sure of the year, if the nut is white, it's not V class.  V class nuts are black.
Scott

This is a good reference point since there are innumerable models over the years where V-braced guitars coincided with their x-braced brethren.  So "what year" is hard to pin down because it wasn't consistent across the lines.

Edward

[SDTaylorman]

For what it's worth, even if you aren't sure of the year, if the nut is white, it's not V class.  V class nuts are black.
Scott

This is a good reference point since there are innumerable models over the years where V-braced guitars coincided with their x-braced brethren.  So "what year" is hard to pin down because it wasn't consistent across the lines.

Edward

But, as stated, the nut could easily have been changed out so maybe not the be all end all factor. I'd say have a look at the label. The V braced vs X braced versions have the bracing underneath in different places. IIRC the X braced is straight while the V is on a diagonal. I could be wrong (they might be the reverse) but an X and V will look very different from the soundhole perspective.

[Edward]

Yeah, not disputing that at all, SD.  Just that looking at a new guit on a wall/website, the nut is an immediate tell.  And if looking used, very few go to the trouble of replacing the nut, and for those who have, they'll state it in their listing because they will tout it as a perk or a "mod" over the original nut.

Edward

[SDTaylorman]

Nor I disputing what you said Edward. The label and the crossed bracing is the true dead giveaway that cannot be changed though and so is always the determining factor IMHO. Having another one (or two...the serial number and the nut color) points of reference is always helpful though.