1958 GIBSON ES-175 WITH PAFS VINTAGE LES PAUL

For your viewing pleasure, a wonderful 1958 Gibson ES 175D with PAFS. This truly is a spectacular instrument. Acoustically, this guitar sounds awesome for a laminate instrument, resonating with true depth and personality. But when plugged in, it really comes to life. The very desirable, very original PAF pickups sound amazing. Noticeably clear and with great separation between the treble and bass strings. The neck pickup sounds rich, warm, round and full in the vein of countless classic jazz recordings while the middle and bridge positions bring to light the awesome qualities of a set of long magnet PAF pickups. As you can see, the patina of the original sunburst finish is gorgeous. The profile of the neck is perfect and inviting, filling out your hand quite nicely, but not clubby at all, making you instantly feel at home playing this guitar. According to Gibson records and this wonderful instrument’s serial number, this guitar dates to late July or early August of 1958. Everything about the guitar is completely original other than the following. As you can see, the Kluson tuners were replaced many, many years ago with a set of old Grovers. Although not original, the Grovers do an immensely better job of keeping the guitar in tune. Furthermore, they add a bit more mass to the headstock contributing to the full, rich tone and wonderful sustain of the notes. The bridge isn’t a wooden bridge, but an extremely original, desirable Gibson tune-o-matic bridge as used on other, more highly-priced late 50s Gibson vintage guitars. I was going to buy a vintage correct wooden bridge, but the tune-o-matic sounds so great and allows for great intonation. Vintage correct wooden bridges are easy to find on Ebay for around $100. And if so desired, you could sell the tune-o-matic and probably make at least a quick $500 profit! Regarding the neck, I believe the back of the neck has been over-sprayed and the headstock appears to have a few touchups, but no cracks or breaks.  Frankly, as stated before, the neck plays wonderfully. If the neck has been over-sprayed, it was most likely done a long time ago. I not only collect guitars, I play them. The tone, feel, vibe and playability are extremely important to me. This guitar and this neck feels and plays wonderfully. You will not be disappointed. I couldn’t capture it in pictures, but it looks like this guitar was stamped a factory second. As you most certainly know, factory seconds are not a big deal and were not uncommon. Lastly, it appears the guitar was professionally refretted some time ago making the guitar play effortlessly and easy. It comes housed in its original 5-latched, brown case with brown interior and Gibson badge. Although I don’t have a picture of the case, it’s in great condition. If you would like to see a picture of the case or any additional pictures at all, feel free to email me and I’ll shoot them off to you. This piece may not be mint, but it embodies all the elusive magic and mojo one searches for in a vintage PAF guitar. Like a well worn Les Paul Goldtop or a naturally reliced blackguard Telecaster, this PAF ES-175 resonates with a woody warmth only found in a guitar that has been loved and played its entire life. Because of the two upgraded parts and possible over-spray on the back of the neck, I’ve set the reserve at a very affordable and reasonable price. The parts alone could be worth the reserve price. Not that I’m in any way suggesting this classic PAF 175 be parted out. It’s a tremendous guitar. Yes, you’ll save thousands of dollars, but you’ll also be getting a truly magical guitar. If I appear passionate about this instrument, I am! I’m grateful to have the privilege of owning this guitar and everyone who has played it has been struck by that same certain indescribable something that all discerning vintage guitar enthusiasts are searching for. Now the search can finally be over for you. Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions. Note: Ebay made me fill out shipping information. Buyer will pay the actual cost for overnight shipping from Austin, Texas.