Just eagerly awaiting my ES-5V kit. It was despatched at high speed by PBGs and reached England in record time, but has spent the best part of a week in UK customs; I'm sure it will be all the better for waiting. This is my second build, the first being a cheap resonator kit that went together surprisingly well and gave me the bug.
I've learned a great deal from that, and probably more by following DougR's posts and his excellent YouTube video. I asked a few questions and he was kind enough to reply. Still not sure of the finish; it will probably be oil on stain but can't decide between a vintage "butterscotch", perhaps with a mild sunburst, and an all out dark brown to red - will make my mind up when the beast arrives.