Gibson Custom Archive Series Theodore Antique Natural

There are certain guitar builders out there whose work was just a cut above the rest, some might even call them true pioneers in the world of guitar design. Leo Fender, Orville Gibson, Friedrich Gretsch, Les Paul and of course Paul Reed Smith himself…But there’s one name often missed. That is of course Mr Ted McCarty! With a rich history spanning decades it’s safe to say Ted’s up there with the very best!

Buried deep in the Gibson archives is a wealth of historical information unknown to the general public, including extensive historical ephemera, memos, photographs, shipping records, concept drawings, and blueprints for instruments that, for one reason or another, were never produced - until now. Gibson is proud to introduce the Gibson Archive Collection - instruments that were initially conceived years ago that have been refined and updated for today’s players.

On March 18^th, 1957 Ted detailed and signed his drawing for a brand new Gibson solid body guitar. With its double cut design this guitar was both visually striking and revolutionary. Sadly, this instrument was never produced and was lost to the Gibson archives…until now. For the first time since ’66, Gibson are proud to present a brand new, never seen design by Mr Ted McCarty himself…Ladies and Gentlemen please welcome the Gibson Archive Series “Theodore”.

With a double cut Alder body this guitar is unlike anything we have ever seen before from Gibson. Thanks to the Alder body these guitars have a tonal palette unlike anything experienced before from a Gibson. Finished in Antique Natural it looks super slick and really captures the feel and aesthetics associated with Gibson’s golden era. It is well weighted and super comfortable to play, just as every Gibson should be.

The Theodore utilises an authentic chunky ’57 C neck shape crafted from the finest Mahogany from Gibson’s collection. It is comfortable yet familiar, it instantly feels like reuniting with an old friend. The Indian Rosewood fingerboard is adorned with pearloid dot inlays, 22 vintage frets, 24.75” scale length and a 42.85mm nut width. No matter your style you’re sure to feel right at home. It even has a scimitar headstock.

A pair of power P-90 pickups provide effortless sustain and a rich warmth. If you’re after that mid to later ’50 Gibson tone then these have it by the bucket load! It also includes a pair of volume and tone controls for further tone shaping! Finished off with a wraparound bridge and six-in-line Kluson tuners.

This very special “Archive Collection” run is limited to just 318 total instruments to represent the date of Ted’s original design sketch, March 18^th 1957. Each will include a historic-style brown/pink case, a premium leather strap, a print of the original signed drawing, a 1957-style catalogue page print and a deluxe certificate of authenticity booklet.