I really love this guitar.  I have owned it for about 12 years now.  But I had a kid recently so I have to get rid of a few of my toys (to make room for his..). This guitar is in outrageous condition.

It's a 2002 R8.  In 2003, the 58 reissues went to a plain top but in 2001 and 2002, they had these lovely flame tops.  I believe that 01 and 02 R8's are the best value out there.  I'll take this guitar and every other 01 and 02 r8 over any of the new Les Paul's but that's just me.

This guitar was called a Custom Authentic.  Supposedly the finish is thinner which resulted in a more tonally responsive resonance.  Don't know about that but I have always liked the tone and the fact that the finish doesn't feel as "thick."  When I bought it, the tuners and pickups were not shiny and the finish was more matte than my other ones.  Condition is incredible.  A couple faint buckle marks on the back but that's about it.  A couple small marks on the front but too small to photograph. The only (tiny) ding on top you can even see is in one angle shot.  

I'm not going to make up some crazy story about how this is the greatest playing Les Paul ever made and all others are garbage. I'll be honest.  What drew me to this guitar was the incredibly comfortable and straight neck.  It plays very well and very evenly up and down.  Action is excellent.  The neck has a profile much more similar to a 59.  It's not a baseball bag but instead elegantly tapered.  Tone is very sweet.  It's a mellow Les Paul sound.  Nice mids.  I play jazz and I like it.

Weight is 9 pounds, 2 ounces.  

Feel free to ask any questions.