Two-piece tops on Gibson Master Models but not on Loars?

[Brian B]

if this is just a display of ignorance, I know I'll get straightened out in a hurry here, but I just noticed in this photo today of a Derrington Gibson F5 Master Model that has a two-piece top. Several others from the period appear to have them, too.

Didn't Loars all have one-piece tops?

If not, never mind, but if so, why would such a significant change be implemented? DO the current MMs have two- or one-piece tops?

[Bill Snyder]

Two piece tops has always been the norm, even the Loar signed Gibsons.

[Brian B]

Two piece tops has always been the norm, even the Loar signed Gibsons.

Maybe hard to see in these pictures, but a couple of random ones don't seem to.this one (http://www.mandolinarchive.com/gibson/serial/75554) and this one (http://www.mandolinarchive.com/gibson/serial/75693).

[Marty Jacobson]

Maybe hard to see in these pictures, but a couple of random ones don't seem to.this one (http://www.mandolinarchive.com/gibson/serial/75554) and this one (http://www.mandolinarchive.com/gibson/serial/75693).

Second one is definitely a two-piece top, gnarly run-out visible. First one is too dark to tell from the photos.

[Spruce]

Didn't Loars all have one-piece tops?

I've never seen a Loar with a one-piece top...
Doesn't mean they don't exist, obviously...

[Brian B]

I will no longer suffer under this misapprehension, gentlemen, and I thank you all for relieving me of it.