I started looking at arch tops ten years ago or so. Not having a boatload of money, I started with an acoustic Fifth Avenue, moved to a Loar LH-700, and finally ;-) found a 1950 Epi Devon that is perfect. It’s a player, and has obviously been played a lot in its life, and needs some work (binding) but, even with its laminated back, it’s got “that sound.” Here’s a photo of it the day I bought it. The first thing I did was remove the Bartolini. I also made a bound pickguard for it.
Obviously it works for swing rhythm, but it is surprisingly good for ragtime, blues, and other forms, too.
Steven