[darrwhit]

I can't tell you where I saw it, but I've seen that type of headstock before. My only concerns would be that the headstock design leaves some structural weakness relative to traditional designs in the case of a fall, and the relative difficulty of string changes.

Many of the design features are very modern, and your friend appears to be a very skilled designer/builder. But the craftsmanship I look for in a guitar, regardless of design features, is how well is the purfling/binding mitered. Are there any gaps or tearout from the routing the channels? Are there finish inconsistencies that betray the fact that this is an early build for this person?

And of course... how does it sound when compared to my favorite guitar with (at least relatively) new strings? Does this guitar fill a sonic void in my arsenal?

Lastly, unknown builders make for a difficult resale later down the road. Something to consider should your fascination with the guitar wane over the years.