1961 Gibson ES-125TC – Cherry Burst

1961 Gibson ES-125TC in Cherry Burst, an exceptionally well preserved example of Gibson’s thinline, single cutaway hollowbody from one of the company’s most desirable eras.

This one immediately stands out for its condition. The Cherry Burst remains remarkably vibrant, with strong color across the top, back, sides, and neck, and the guitar has clearly been cared for over the course of its life. We are listing it as Very Good, though considering its age it pushes toward the upper end of that designation. There are a couple of minor dings, some small bumps and wear around the headstock, oxidation to the hardware, general play wear, and age related finish checking throughout. Much of the checking is subtle and does not reproduce particularly well under studio lighting, so please keep that in mind when reviewing the photos.

Importantly, there are no known structural issues, body or neck cracks, or repaired headstock breaks. The finish checking described above is cosmetic and age related, not structural.

The frets are in excellent condition with plenty of life remaining. The fingerboard is especially attractive, with the dark reddish brown coloration, grain pattern, and visual characteristics associated with Brazilian rosewood. Given the era of manufacture and the appearance of the wood, we strongly believe the fingerboard is Brazilian rosewood, though we cannot independently verify the species with absolute certainty.

The single P-90 measures approximately 10.34kΩ at the output. That is unusually high for a P-90 of this period, and based on the reading we suspect the pickup may have been rewound at some point in its life, though this cannot be confirmed conclusively. If rewound, the work appears to be quite old, as the pickup, lead wire, soldering, and associated components all show consistent period aging. The pickup itself otherwise appears period correct.

The guitar retains its period correct Kluson strip tuners, trapeze tailpiece, tortoise style pickguard, adjustable rosewood bridge, and original style controls. Serial number 24821 is clearly stamped on the back of the headstock.

At just 5 lbs 3.2 oz, the guitar is exceptionally light and has the lively, resonant feel you would hope for from a vintage fully hollow Gibson. The single neck position P-90 delivers the warm, woody character these guitars are known for while retaining plenty of articulation and bite.

The guitar is currently playable and functioning as it should. We recommend having any instrument professionally set up after delivery to suit the individual player's preferences. Shipping, temperature, humidity, and changes in climate can all affect an instrument in transit, particularly a vintage guitar, so some adjustment should be expected upon arrival.

Included is an era correct hard shell case with orange plush interior. The case shows appropriate age and wear and complements the guitar nicely.

This is a remarkably clean and honest vintage Gibson that has avoided the heavy wear, finish loss, structural damage, and extensive modification often encountered on instruments of this age. The checking, minor marks, oxidation, and other signs of age remain present and are part of the guitar’s history rather than something we have attempted to polish away or conceal.

Please review all photographs carefully. Some of the finish checking and age related wear can be difficult to capture under studio lighting. We are happy to provide additional detailed photographs of any area upon request, and encourage buyers with specific condition questions or concerns to ask prior to purchase.