funny I have a cs64 which is an odd one they did modeled on McCartneys bass, but the right hand model has an upside down [ie left handed] neck which they did as a limited edition of a few years ago.
Anyway, if I were in John Halls position, I too would vigorously try and protect my trademark so if anyone wanted to copy it it would be difficult, why should someone else make money out of my design.
Why would I want to make cheaper versions of my product. Im sorry you cant afford one of my instruments, it only makes it more desirable.
You dont expect to see Mclaren or Ferrari trying to produce a car to compete with a Mondeo, they can sell as many of what they make as they want to..
In most product types, there will always be people who are prepared to pay for that perceived top quality product. Rolex watches, Saville row suits, Gucci handbags, nike trainers, you name it, there are people who want to be seen with, or just because they can, buy that very expensive product.
Sell you a cheap rick, Nah, I want to get as much as I can for it.