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1957 Gibson ES-125

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Factory order #: U2149-10

Body size at lower bout: 16". Scale length: 24 1/2" Nut Width: 1 11/16"

Materials: Solid Honduras mahogany neck, arched slab-cut maple back and top; mahogany sides; solid Brazilian rosewood fingerboard.

Hardware: Original hardware includes P-90 single coil pickup with chrome cover, Kluson Deluxe tuners, gold bonnet knobs, chrome raised diamond trapeze tailpiece. Vintage correct contoured five-ply pickguard, compensated adjustable ebony bridge.

Notes: Introduced in 1938 as the ES-100, the ES-125 was renamed in 1941, and remained in continuous production for over 30 years. With its clear P-90 pickup and fast 24 1/2" scale, the ES-125 offered true Gibson quality and playability at an affordable price. The laminated body offers superior feedback resistance, and the guitar produces a lively acoustic tone for playing unplugged.

This example is in great shape, without pick, buckle, thumb or fingerboard wear, and all-original sunburst finish in gleaming condition. At just 5lb. 15oz, the guitar is notably lightweight, and shows handsome figure in the slab-cut maple back. The original P-90 pickup provides smooth classic single-coil tone, with excellent clarity and detail, and has an older chrome cover as added protection against pickup hum. A short hairline crack has been soundly and all-but-invisibly resealed in the headstock, and the gentle C profile neck has smooth low action over excellent original fretwork.

As these guitars were originally shipped in flimsy softshell cases, the owner has thoughtfully provided a sturdy plush hardshell case for its protection. A solid player for jazz, swing or blues, the ES-125 remains by far the best value in a true vintage Gibson archtop.

Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge nickel flatwound strings (.012-.054). The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief for acoustic playing with medium strings. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.

Case: Deluxe black arched plush lined hardshell case.

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