My open box AJ has arrove. The pickguard covers only the thin outer rings of the rosette, and leaves the thicker center ring entirely visible. I see no scratches, no signs of any play wear at all, in fact. Serial number indicates it was made in July 2016.
My guess is previous buyers returned it because of the very obviously mismatched top woods. I've snapped a couple of photos with my tablet camera, but the mismatch isn't as obvious in photos as it is to the eye looking straight-on. I can certainly live with it.
Action is too low for me, and I believe that accounts for a thinner tone than I want. I know this instrument is capable of a fuller tone.
I'm not good at guessing string gauge but I suspect the set on it now is way light. I will replace with a set of Martin MA550 (13-56) and see if that doesn't solve both the low action issue and the girly-man voicing. I'm looking for a full-throated, bassy sound, like on "My Sweet Lord." It's in there, I'm sure.
This will probably be my last guitar, unless I come into a pile of money. I'm happy.