There's just something about a ’64 SG Standard that makes all of us at Musician's Friend woozy with desire. Watching Eric Clapton wailing on one with Cream has something to do with it. Listening to George Harrison's snarling lead on the Beatles' "Lady Madonna" does, too. The Gibson Custom Murphy Lab 1964 SG Standard Reissue fulfills all of our rock fantasies, offering vintage sounds with looks to match. It features an Ultra Heavy-aging from the Murphy Lab—you'll see decades of serious wear, and the scars of onstage abuse. Read on to discover if this Gibson fills a hole in your collection.

The Ultra Heavy-aged finish is impeccable


Tom Murphy was instrumental in creating the Gibson Custom Shop; he's also a pioneer in the art of aging guitars. The SG Standard gets an Ultra Heavy aging from the Murphy Lab, equivalent to a half century of extreme wear and abuse. This means major buckle rash on the body, plus heavy arm and pick wear that exposes areas of raw wood. The hardware is dinged up, too, with a patina to match.

The construction matches ’60s specs


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 body is made from solid, lightweight mahogany; the same wood is used for the chunky, medium C-shaped neck. Your fretting hand will find instant comfort in the rosewood fretboard—the extra-rolled binding makes it feel like a worn-in Gibson.

Vintage sounds that thrill


Gibson nailed the tone with its alnico III, unpotted CustomBucker pickups. They're warm and sweet, with more growl when you add more gain. The Maestro Vibrola lets you shimmy chords and leads with plenty of ’60s soul.

If you want an absolutely authentic SG Standard, get this Gibson


The waiting list for a Murphy Lab guitar can take up to two years, so if vintage style and sounds are your game, the Custom 1964 SG Standard with Maestro Vibrola will deliver a lifetime of satisfaction. It includes a certificate of authenticity, and a brown and pink reissue 5-latch hardshell case.