For 2 years between 1961 & 1963, Gibson manufactured the Les Paul signature model with a completely redesigned body shape that would go on to be known as the SG. As Les Paul and Gibson parted ways for a number of years until the end of the 1960's, this thinner, bevelled edge asymmetrical cut away shape manufactured between '61 and '63 is an interesting and short lived part of Gibson history, with the guitar undeniably recognisable as an SG but bearing the Les Paul model name.
This 1963 Les Paul Standard is an excellent player grade example of a SG body shaped Les Paul Standard from this period. This guitar has been fully refinished in a black lacquer that leaves it looking equal parts sleek and menacing. The body is fitted with the a set of original early Patent No. pickups, built to the same specs as late period PAFs, with short magnets, purple wire and PAF style bobbins. The tone is certainly what you would expect to find from an original set of PAF pickups. The pickup covers have been off at some point, and two bobbin screws have been replaced on the neck pickup. The double ring Kluson tuners and vibrato are original, and the ABR-1 bridge is a later replacement. The pots are original CTS brand and date to 1963 (137 63XX). All other wiring and electronics are correct for the period. The is a comfortable slimmer early '60s profile, and has benefitted from a refret.
This guitar is in excellent condition as you would expect from an instrument that appears to have been relatively recently refinished, although the original metal parts do show some signs of age and patina. This guitar also includes a non original case.
The guitar has been given a full service and appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
