1965 Gibson ES-355

First introduced in 1959 along with the 330 and 345 models, the Gibson ES-355 was initially introduced as the companies top of the line thinline semi hollow electric guitar. Although surpassed in popularity by the 335, Gibson ES-355 guitars are fantastic vintage instruments, with a deluxe quality that sets them apart from the rest of the range. This 1965 ES-355 is a wonderful example of a '60s ES-355, constructed from a semi hollow Maple body, Mahogany neck and Rosewood fingerboard, and featuring a wonderful sounding set of PAF pickups.

Although nickel covered PAFs are rarely seen post-1962, gold covered PAFs can be seen much later than this, due to the number of Gibson guitars using gold hardware being fewer. These pickups capture the much sought after tone of those early PAFs, with a warm and clear clean tone with plenty of dynamic response, and just enough bite and growl for a classic blues and rock tone. This guitar also features its original Lyre vibrato tailpiece that was introduced on the model in 1963.

This ES-355 is also factory mono, making it one of approximately 130 models produced by Gibson in this year. This guitar features the original gold hardware and pickup covers, although the both covers have been previously removed and re-soldered. The fretboard features mother of pearl block inlays, and the original double line gold waffle back tuners are present and fully functional. This guitar also includes its original yellow lined Gibson case. 

This guitar is in very good condition. The cherry finish remains vibrant and shows little wear beyond standard patina and ageing. The celluloid pickguard, adjustable wire bridge, vibrato and knobs are original, with the exception of the neck pickup tone knob, and the switch tip has also been replaced. The original pots show readable codes of 137 65XX, with the original wiring and cap present and correct. There is no evidence that the pickups have ever been desoldered from the wiring loom. 

As with all our vintage instruments, this 1965 ES-355 has been given a full service and appraisal by the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.