A stunning example of Gibson’s late-1960s craftsmanship, this 1968 Gibson ES-355 Stereo is finished in beautiful Cherry and offers a fantastic combination of vintage character, distinctive styling and exceptional tonal versatility.

In excellent condition for its age, this ES-355 plays wonderfully and delivers the unmistakable feel and character you would expect from a late 60's Gibson. The combination of Gibson Patent humbuckers, the original Varitone circuit, stereo electronics and Maestro Vibrola tailpiece provides a wealth of tonal possibilities, making this a particularly versatile and desirable vintage semi-hollow!

This guitar remains in all-original condition apart from its replacement CTS potentiometers, which date to 1983. The original stereo electronics and Varitone circuit remain in place, preserving the distinctive features that make the ES-355 such a special instrument.

The beautifully dark ebony fingerboard is in excellent condition, with no obvious signs of wear or marking. The pearl block inlays complement the guitar’s elegant appointments, while the gold-plated hardware has developed an attractive vintage patina.

One of the first things players notice about this particular ES-355 is its wonderfully slim neck profile and exceptionally narrow nut width of just 39.47 mm. It has a distinctive, fast-playing feel that consistently impresses anyone who picks it up.

The frets show only minor flattening consistent with the guitar’s age, and the ebony fingerboard remains in excellent shape. Overall, it plays every bit as well as you would hope from a well-preserved Gibson of this era.

At 58 years old, this guitar naturally shows some signs of its journey. There is lacquer checking throughout, some patina to the hardware, and a few very small marks and dings, as shown in the photographs. These are all consistent with its age and contribute to its authentic vintage character.

Specifications

• Model: Gibson ES-355 Stereo
• Year: 1968
• Finish: Cherry
• Body: Semi-hollow
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Inlays: Pearl block
• Pickups: Gibson Patent humbuckers
• Electronics: Stereo wiring with original Varitone circuit
• Potentiometers: Replacement CTS pots dating to 1983
• Bridge: ABR-1
• Tailpiece: Maestro Vibrola
• Tuners: Kluson Waffleback
• Hardware: Gold-plated
• Case: Original Gibson hardshell case

Included

The guitar comes complete with its original hardshell case and a stereo cable.