First introduced in 1959, the Gibson ES-330 was conceived as a successor to the ES-225 single cut model produced by Gibson throughout the mid-’50s. While often living in the shadow of contemporary semi-hollow models such as the ES-335, the ES-330 is a superb and frequently under appreciated guitar, offering a sound that stands apart from most vintage instruments. This 1960 ES-330 is a beautiful example of an early, dot inlay model, in excellent condition.
Constructed from a fully hollow maple ply body, clean tones are warm and full, with excellent dynamic sensitivity, while through a driven valve amp the guitar delivers an unmistakable ’60s garage rock character that is unique to this model. The neck features the slightly shallower feeling 1960 neck profile, with the corresponding 1 11/16ths nut width.
Overall, this guitar is in very good condition, showing very light play wear and lacquer checking throughout.
It retains its original black pickup covers, tailpiece and pickguard. The black bobbin pickups and electronics are original and are fully working, with no evidence the loom has ever been disturbed. The original tuners are present and correct, as is the ABR-1 bridge. This guitar has two extra wholes beneath the base of the trapeze tailpiece, indicating a Bigsby vibrato tailpiece having been previously fitted, however a period correct trapeze tailpiece is currently in place. This guitar also includes a period correct Lifton case.
As with all vintage instruments, this 1960 Gibson ES-330 has been given a full service and appraisal by the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 2 year warranty.
