‘S’ FON, large neck 1959 ES-330’s are comparatively rare as these hollow body classics succeeded the ES-225 midway through ’59 when Gibson were starting to transition towards a slightly thinner neck. It is a real treat when we get one in, such as this one with zero issues and original 5 latch brown Lifton case…

Introduced in 1959 as the successor to the ES-225, the ES-330 bridged the gap between the new centre block guitars and Gibson’s classic archtops of the previous decades, becoming a firm favorite with players such as BB King and Grant Green not to mention the rhythm guitar of choice for many.

The finish has kept its deep colour both front and back and there is hardly a mark anywhere to be seen. The sunburst really accentuates the grain pattern of the maple and the finish has retained its lush gloss. 

The same can be said for the neck which is in stunning condition. The fretboard is mark free and the frets have plenty of life left in them. The plastics are in great shape with no warping of the pickguard. The hardware shows no signs of corrosion, slightly dulled which is to be expected.

Electronically the guitar has zero issues with the solder joints being untouched and both pickups undisturbed, strong outputs with original windings. 

The guitar comes with a correct brown Lifton hardshell case. 

Acoustically this guitar has a pleasantly warm tone that certainly tips the hat to Gibson’s archtop heritage. Plugged in the guitar runs the gamut from warm neck pickup to a more honky, biting bridge pickup tone. The neck has the classic 1959 medium chunky neck profile and it is very comfortable and a complete delight to play.

This is a fantastic example with a tone to match. A must for any collection. Grab it before it gets away…