In the 1950's, the Gibson Byrdland was the headline model of the Gibson archtop range along with the L5-ES, and its thin body, shorter scale design made it popular with professional gigging musicians of the day. This 1957 Gibson Byrdland is a fantastic example of the first generation of the model. Fitted with the Alnico staple P90 pickups only used between the models introduction in 1955 and late-1957 when the PAF pickup transition began, this 1957 Byrdland is constructed from a Maple body and neck and carved Spruce top, and is one of only 52 Natural models produced in 1957, with a maximum of only approx. 79 P90 equipped models having been produced between '55 and '57.
Originally designed after Ted McCarty asked for feedback from musicians Hank Garland and Billy Byrd about the companies arch top range, the Byrdland went on to become a favourite with jazz players after its introduction in 1955. The body is fitted with a set of Alnico P90 'Staple' pickups that perfectly capture the sound of the era, with a warmth, clarity and articulation that is so associated with Gibson electric arch top guitars. Other features include the mother of pearl flower pot peghead inlay, 7 ply neck and body binding, 'Byrdland' engraved triple loop tailpiece, and a set of gold Kluson Sealfast tuners.
This guitar is in excellent condition, with only the most minor signs of play wear and patina visible to the body and neck. The neck and back of the body feature exceptionally flamed pieces of maple, with the factory Gibson 'stinger' seen on the rear of the headstock. There is a small patch of play wear towards the bottom of the rear of the neck heel, and there the metal parts have obviously reacted with some gas emitted from the celluloid guard, causing small areas to tarnish. The electronics and hardware are original with the exception of a newer Indian Rosewood bridge base. The pots are original although the date codes are obscured, and the wiring loom appears untampered with, with the original bumble bee caps present and correct. The pickups are original with no evidence of any rewinds or other work having been carried out to maintain them. The ABR-1 adjustable bridge, tuners, and all other hardware appear original and correct. This guitar also includes its original pink lined 5 latch Lifton hard case.
This guitar has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
