Mosrite: The Rebel’s Guitar

Mosrite guitars, founded by Semie Moseley in the late 1950s in California, carved out a bold and unconventional niche in the electric guitar world. Known for their ultra-slim necks, high-output pickups, German-carve bodies, and distinctive headstocks, Mosrite instruments looked—and sounded—like nothing else on the market.

The brand reached cult status in the 1960s when The Ventures, one of the most influential instrumental rock bands, adopted Mosrites as their signature instruments. This endorsement led to the “Ventures Model,” which became one of the company’s most iconic designs, instantly recognizable by its swooping contours and sparkling finishes.

Mosrite’s edgy design and aggressive tone also made it a favorite of punk and garage rock players, with Johnny Ramone of the Ramones famously wielding a Mosrite Mark II throughout his career. Despite financial troubles that led to the company’s decline in the 1970s, the brand’s legacy endures through reissues, Japanese-built models, and custom shop revivals.

Today, Mosrite guitars remain prized for their unmistakable look, fast necks, and snappy sound—perfect for players who want to stand out in both style and tone.

More info from the Web:

Mosrite (Fillmore) web site