75 Made! Gibson J-45 Grenadillo 2016 - Sunburst

FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO JOE’S VINTAGE GUITARS in Mesa, AZ with any questions, or to chat about the instrument.

This is a 2016 Gibson J-45 Granadillo, one of only 75 made, and it’s in near mint condition. Gibson paired a solid Sitka spruce top with granadillo back and sides, and the back and sides on this one are beautiful. It plays great. It comes with the original hard case, the COA and the warranty.

What Granadillo Is

Granadillo is a dense Latin American hardwood from the Platymiscium genus. Luthiers use it as a rosewood alternative. It isn’t a true Dalbergia rosewood, though it’s close in looks, weight and voice. Gibson normally builds the J-45 with mahogany back and sides, so a granadillo J-45 is a different animal from the usual round shoulder.

How Granadillo Sounds

Granadillo’s sound is often compared to Indian rosewood. It’s harder and denser than rosewood, though, and that extra density adds a bell-like ring on top of the rosewood character.

The bass is deep and full, the way it is on a good rosewood guitar. The trebles are where granadillo pulls ahead. They’re clear and chimey, with a sparkle that hangs in the air and helps the notes sustain. Each string speaks for itself, so a big open chord stays articulate and doesn’t turn into a wash. Single notes ring out with a long, even decay.

Marimba makers have used granadillo for tone bars because it rings so clearly. That same quality shows up in the trebles here.

What It Does For A J-45

The usual mahogany J-45 has a warm, dry, woody sound with a strong midrange. Granadillo keeps the J-45’s round-shoulder body and its punch, then adds a fuller low end, more overtones and more sustain. Strum it hard and the chords bloom. Play it fingerstyle and every note in the pattern comes through. It sits well behind a singer, and it’s got enough sparkle for lead lines, too.

The Pickguard

The pickguard was removed, and it didn’t leave any unsightly scars on the top. It’s included. It’s Gibson’s bubble type, a two-piece guard, and both pieces are here, so you can put it back on or leave the top clean.

Specs

Year: 2016
Model: Gibson J-45 Granadillo
Production: Limited run of 75
Top: Solid Sitka spruce
Back and sides: Granadillo
Neck: Mahogany
Scale length: 24.75"

Condition

It’s in near mint condition, and it plays and sounds great.

What’s Included

Original hard case
COA
Warranty
Original pickguard (both pieces)

At Joe’s Vintage Guitars, your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind every instrument we sell, and we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. That’s why we offer a 7-day return policy with no restocking fee. Take a full week to inspect, play, and fall in love with your new guitar. If for any reason it isn’t the right fit, simply return it in the same condition for a full refund—no hidden fees, no hassle. We know that buying a vintage instrument is a big decision, and we’re committed to making the process as comfortable and transparent as possible. Shop with peace of mind knowing that every guitar from Joe’s Vintage Guitars is backed by honest service and years of expertise.