Gibson ES-175 - Natural Flame *Limited Edition 2007 Model* - Used

Check out this rare Gibson ES-175 that's captured our attention with its exceptional craftsmanship. The flame and figuring on its top, back, and sides are truly striking, causing quite a stir amongst our staff as we photographed it.

Launched in 1949 under Ted McCarty's leadership, the Gibson ES-175 enjoyed a massively successful production run until 2017. With the ascendancy of electric guitars, acoustic volume became less of a priority, leading to innovations like the use of laminated maple instead of solid spruce for the tops. This construction not only resulted in a lighter guitar but also reduced feedback, enhancing its appeal. The ES-175's comfortable size, notably compared to other Gibson archtops, further contributed to its popularity.

Initially featuring a single neck-position Gibson P-90 pickup, the ES-175 underwent a significant evolution with the introduction of the ES-175D in 1953, boasting double P-90 pickups. Equipped with two volume controls, two tone controls, and a 3-position selector switch, these guitars offered expanded tonal options.

Notable players such as Joe Pass, Pat Metheny, Steve Howe, and John Frusciante have wielded the ES-175, cementing its status as a beloved instrument across genres. 

This specific example showcases Deluxe Gibson tuners, cream binding, a strap pin positioned on both the back of the neck and the base of the body. It bears an orange label indicating its Memphis origin. Accompanied by a Gibson hard case featuring an internal dust cover and a heavily padded handle, it also includes a pristine Gibson Custom cable with blue and gold braid and gold-tipped ends, still secured with cable ties and never utilised. The guitar is strung with flatwound strings and adorned with real mother-of-pearl split parallelogram inlays, complemented by a Gibson truss rod key.

Some Lollar shims have already been employed to finely adjust the pickup height for optimal balance, a modification that seamlessly integrates with the instrument but can be effortlessly reversed without leaving any discernible traces.

During our assessment, we plugged the guitar into a Fender Princeton and were met with phenomenal tones - jazz warmth, biting western swing, and rockabilly grit. It checks all the boxes for rarity, beauty, and sublime sound and feel. Despite being from 2007, its condition remains excellent, showing only regular and light signs of usage.

Rest assured, our technicians will conduct a thorough setup before dispatch. If you have any enquiries about this rare beauty, please don't hesitate to reach out.