The Gibson Custom Murphy Lab 1959 ES 335 Reissue accurately captures the revolutionary design of the first semi-hollowbody guitar. It features an impeccable aged finish using techniques developed by Gibson Master Artisan Tom Murphy. If you're a passionate player looking for an heirloom quality Gibson, the ’59 ES-335 might check all of your boxes.

Let’s start with the finish


This 1959 ES-335 was treated to an Ultra Heavy aging, with the dings and scars from decades of hard playing and abuse. You can imagine it falling more than once from the band van, and possibly used defensively against an unruly fan. The back has major buckle rash; the front has heavy arm wear, pick scratches and peghead scrapes. There are several spots where the finish has worn down completely, revealing exposed wood.

Historically accurate construction


The Custom Shop doesn't fool around when it comes to construction. From laser-scanned dimensions to chemically recreated plastics, their attention to detail makes all the difference. The 3-ply maple/poplar/maple body is lightweight, making it easy to sling on your shoulder. We dig the chunky neck—Gibson calls it a 1959 medium C-shape, and we can attest it's got more meat than ’60s models. The Indian rosewood fretboard has "extra-rolled" binding, giving off a distinctive vintage vibe.

A tone like no other


If chocolate and peanut butter go together well, so do PAFs and a semi-hollowbody guitar. Sure, that metaphor is a reach, but there is something magic about CustomBuckers in the Reissue ES-335. Warm and woody, you'll feel the resonance immediately. It's easy to dial in Clapton's "woman tone," but you can also coax vibrant, clean sounds, too.

This is a no compromise Gibson for passionate players


Gibson made less than 600 ES-335 guitars in 1959; finding an original one in playing condition today requires luck and a large wallet. This Gibson Custom Murphy Lab Reissue will give you the exact same experience, and it's available now at Musician's Friend. It includes a certificate of authenticity, and a brown and pink reissue 5-latch hardshell case.