1968 Gibson ES-175D – Black
Description
There’s cool, and then there’s a factory black Gibson! This 1968 ES-175D comes in one of the rarest Gibson custom colors. It is largely uncommon to see this finish on this model. This guitar could be a special order, though there is also a chance that it received this finish for a different reason. A small run of black ES-175s were made in 1968, as at this time, Gibson used black on guitars with imperfections in the wood. The opaque finish would cover up anything in the grain that a Sunburst or Natural finish would show. However, this guitar is not marked as a factory second on the back of the headstock, so we are leaning towards the former. This 175 remains all original, aside from the pickguard, which is a reproduction example. Overall, the black finish gives this guitar a sleek and clean look, though some finish checking, buckle rash, and patina provide the vintage feel that we expect. This guitar is set up to play beautifully and is ready to go to its next home!
Overall Condition: 8.5
Specifications
- finish_details Black, Original, Great Condition, finish checking throughout instrument, bucklerash and worming on back of body
- body_material Maple Laminate
- neck_material Mahogany
- fretboard_material Rosewood
- neck_profile Slim Taper C
- weight 6 lbs 8 oz
- scale_length 24-3/4"
- pickup_readings N: 7.10K B: 7.12K
- tubes
- speakers
- electronics Original, Untouched
- nut_width 1-9/16"
- hardware Original except for repro pickguard, Great Condition, some patina and playwear to metal components
- includes Original Black Hardshell Case with orange lining
- year 1968