1987 Gibson ES-335 in Cherry with Tim Shaw Pickups, Emerson Wiring Harness, and Original Hardshell Case

This 1987 Gibson ES-335 in translucent cherry is an exceptional example from the late 1980s production era, a period that consistently produced high-quality instruments that remain undervalued relative to their tone and craftsmanship. The figured maple top displays attractive flame figuring under the cherry finish, particularly striking in natural light.

The guitar is equipped with a pair of the highly sought-after Tim Shaw humbuckers with nickel covers. Designed by Shaw as Gibson's effort to recapture the tonal character of the original PAF pickups, these units are prized by players and collectors for their open, dynamic response and unmistakable vintage voice. They continue to appreciate in desirability as the market recognizes their quality relative to modern reproductions.

The electronics have been upgraded with an Emerson Custom 1950s-style wiring harness featuring 500K pots. This configuration preserves the full frequency range of the Tim Shaw pickups while providing the classic independent volume roll-off behavior, allowing each pickup to be cleaned up without sacrificing high-end clarity or detail.

All original electronics and hardware are included with the guitar, allowing the next owner to restore the instrument to fully stock configuration at their discretion.

Specifications:

• Year: 1987
• Model: Gibson ES-335
• Finish: Translucent Cherry with figured maple top
• Body: Maple/poplar/maple laminate, semi-hollow construction
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fretboard: Rosewood
• Binding: Cream, single-ply body binding
• Pickups: Tim Shaw humbuckers (nickel covered)
• Electronics: Emerson Custom 1950s wiring harness, 500K pots (original electronics included)
• Bridge: Nashville tune-o-matic with stopbar tailpiece
• Hardware: Nickel
• Pickguard: Black, five-ply
• Knobs: Black witch hat style
• Case: Original Gibson hardshell case included

Tonally, this instrument delivers the rich, complex character and natural semi-hollow bloom that has made the ES-335 one of the most iconic designs in electric guitar history. Late 1980s examples with Tim Shaw pickups represent a compelling combination of vintage tone, build quality, and value.