Gibson Custom Shop ES-335 Prototype

Gibson ES-335 Custom Shop '59 Reissue Prototype. This guitar was an originally owned by an employee of the Gibson Custom Shop who was tasked with building prototypes for the 50th anniversary reissues. This particular model was then only reissued in blonde and burst, so the employee was able to keep this cherry red model. Unique features include the factory B-7 Bigsby and "Custom Made" plate. Most of the other specs are in line with the later Historic Reissue series, including:

- Custombucker pickups w/ Murphy Lab aged covers.

- CTS 500k period-correct audio taper pots

- Lux oil-in-paper bumblebee capacitors (.022mfd)

- ABR-1 no-wire bridge (ZAMAK saddle, nickel plated brass inserts)

- Kluson replica tuners

The builder opted for double thumb wheels to the bridge. The bottom wheels stablize the bridge posts. The top wheels allow for the bridge to slightly tilt, improving tuning stability when using the Bigsby. The neck is on the beefier side with a profile similar to other late 50's reissue models.

I purchased the guitar from the original owner/employee through a consignment sale (photos from original listing included). It is in excellent condition aside from normal player. No dings, dents, cracks, etc. Comes with Gibson Custom Shop hardshell case. One of a kind for sure. Plays great. Zero issues.