I like the idea...but as for pricing, well that's different according to where you live and who you go to.
For a luthier to make the body you are after I wouldn't expect it to be too costly.
Many Luthier's do overprice, but that's understandable as it's a very tough world to make a living in.
The problem you will have is a luthier with no Jem experience will be working partly blind.
He'll have to make-up some templates for the grip and the lo-pro/edge rout unless he is amazing at freehand, so that's another cost to add-on.
The contouring of the body (JS) isn't a big factor as most should be experienced enough to have come across much more elaborate contouring than that anyway.
The neck again won't be too much of a problem, but you will need to supply him with accurate dimensions and don't expect a 100% exact copy.
Pup routs are a doddle for an experienced guy.
We come to the top
Now, it all depends on the quality of the top you want.
The grade of the flame/quilt is what can add to the cost massively and also the thickness
Don't just think Maple either...as Rippled Sycamore if selected correctly can look just as good and will be a lot cheaper.
The swirl is a question you should post to Darren if you want an accurate answer.
Ok, my guess at pricing (bear in mind this is all guess pricing for a luthier with no templates or experience with these styles)
Body (unfinished)...I'd allow about £300 to be safe (wood and labour)
Neck...hmm tough one, again to be safe £200 (wood and labour and remember to add inlay and fret work to this, taking it to approx £300)
Top...Although classed as part of the body this will obviously add to the price according to wood selection and grade + shaping over the body's contours..£150 for a medium grade and according to thickness...less for Sycamore.
Finish...No clue sorry.
All hardware is extra and may even have to be sourced by yourself for the best deal.
Again let me say that these are all guessed with a slight basis on some work I was planning to have a U.K. luthier do for me about a year ago.
Good luck, I hope it all comes together
Steve
P.S. One thing to think about is CNC machinists.
I bought some wood about 6 months ago and spoke to a local wood and metal machining company.
I told them I had the dimensions/measurements to cut the body and all routing, and spoke to the owner of the company.
He was actually quite excited to get involved with the project and quoted me £50 to do all body work.
I didn't end up doing this, but that was my loss.
So definately look into that
