2003 Gibson ES-137 Classic – Silver Metallic

For sale is my 2003 Gibson ES-137 Classic in the uncommon factory Silver Metallic finish. This guitar has been played and toured extensively throughout its life and shows the cosmetic wear and aging you'd expect from a well-loved, 23-year-old instrument.

The guitar was recently professionally inspected and set up by Berkley Music Company by world-renowned luthier Mark Balash (see photos for receipt), including service to the 3-way pickup selector switch. It plays well and comes with its original Gibson hard case in great condition.

Lacquer Checking

There is extensive lacquer checking throughout the guitar, consistent with the aging of Gibson's nitrocellulose finishes from this era.

The finish checking was examined during its recent professional inspection. The shop was familiar with this type of aging on Gibsons from this period and did not express concern about it.

Headstock Finish Delamination

There is visible finish delamination and deterioration on the face of the headstock, particularly around the upper edges.

This was also examined during the recent inspection. The shop described the condition as consistent with finish issues seen on certain Gibsons from this era.

This is being disclosed clearly and photographed in detail so there are no surprises.

Nitrocellulose Finish Burn

There are areas of nitrocellulose finish discoloration and surface wear from years of use and contact with other materials. These are cosmetic and contribute to the guitar's overall player-grade appearance.

Neck Binding

The neck binding shows age-related wear and finish imperfections. Please examine the detailed photographs for its condition.

Hardware and Electronics

The guitar retains its original-style hardware and electronics, with the exception of the recently serviced/replaced 3-way pickup selector switch.

The guitar was recently professionally set up and inspected. Intonated for standard tuning.

Original Hard Case

Includes the original Gibson hard case, which is in good condition and shows normal signs of age and use.

Overall Condition

This is a player-grade, early-production ES-137 Classic in the uncommon Silver Metallic finish.

It is not a collector-grade or cosmetically pristine example. It has been toured extensively, played regularly, and shows significant lacquer aging and cosmetic wear.

That said, the guitar presents beautifully, particularly in the distinctive Silver finish, and has recently received professional attention to ensure it is ready for its next owner.

Please review all photographs carefully, particularly those showing the headstock, lacquer checking, finish wear, and binding.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or requests for additional photographs.