1973 Gibson ES-335 Custom Colour Factory Black w/Bigsby MOD – T-Tops & OHSC, RARE

We’re on a run with rare factory custom-order black 335s at the moment at the shop, and this latest example is another standout piece!

Introducing this vintage 1973 Gibson ES-335, finished in its highly desirable and exceptionally rare custom colour Factory Black. 

Included in the sale is the original hardcase and trapeze tailpiece. 

While black is a finish most players associate with modern production, it was a uncommon special-order option in the early 1970s ES-335 lineup. Examples like this don’t come around often, particularly in such honest, well-preserved condition with originality where it counts.

This guitar has clearly seen a lifetime of love, and as a result it has been carefully and professionally maintained to a very high standard. It remains structurally excellent throughout, with no breaks, cracks, or structural concerns.

The guitar has been professionally modified to accommodate a Bigsby B7 unit. Previously, it was converted from its original trapeze tailpiece to a stop wraparound tailpiece, necessitating anchor studs. During these changes, a skilled luthier also addressed the original trapeze mounting holes, as well as filled non-original tuner holes from a previous set of machines. Localised finish touch-ups were carried out as part of the restoration work—blacklight photos are available upon request. 

Playability is where this ES-335 really shines. It benefits from a high-quality professional refret and a meticulous setup with .010 gauge strings, resulting in incredibly low, fast action across the entire fingerboard. It’s an effortless, lively player that feels every bit the part of a serious instrument.

Cosmetically, it presents extremely well. The original Factory Black finish remains in clean condition, with only light, honest signs of use consistent with its age and complemented by chrome hardware and . Importantly, the wear remains surface-level and does not break through the clear coat.

Electronics remain original, retaining the untouched wiring harness and a perfectly balanced set of original T-Top Patent No. humbuckers—rich, woody, articulate, and full of vintage character.

Neck measurements come in at 1 9/16" nut width, .830" depth at the 1st fret, and .978" at the 12th fret, offering a substantial yet very playable feel that suits a wide range of styles.

This one weighs in at 7.8lbs. 

To summarise, this is a rare Factory Black 1973 ES-335 that perfectly balances vintage originality and killer playability. Retaining its original electronics, finish, and character, while benefiting from a pro refret and well-executed modifications including a Bigsby vibrato system, adding a whole other dimension to the overall playing experience. 

It’s been expertly cleaned and setup by Ben of Beej Guitar Repairs with a fresh set of 10-46 strings.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and thanks for looking!

WHY BUY FROM IN BLOOM GUITARS?

Every guitar that is sold, is carefully and lovingly cleaned, setup and restrung, primed for its new owner. We source only the finest and rarest of guitars so you can be assured that each and every instrument upholds the strict standard of quality here at In Bloom Guitars. We offer international delivery and can assure you all guitars are packed sufficiently for a safe transit.

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