Really, very nice original Gibson ES-355 TDC SV which has been sympathetically converted to mono using the original pots and caps. Varitone has been bypassed and removed so it is now effectively an ES-335 but with the added snap and slickness a really nice ebony fingerboard provides…

It is in very good condition too. It has no breaks or finish nastiness going on anywhere and even has the original frets with most of the nibs intact that are in exceptional condition for their age. There is a tailpiece repair that is solid and has been securely repaired and is all hidden under the cover. All original cherry red finish is nice dark and deep with little fade. There are some wear marks on the back and on the back of the neck but this is not too bad as you can see in the photos.

It is setup with a nice low action and the slick fingerboard has that feeling of almost playing itself, especially with the factory wide frets. Both pickups sound well matched and strong and it is a joy to play an original ES-355 without having to faff around with stereo leads and that Varitone.

The only replaced parts we can see are the Varitone itself, including the gold ring and the strap buttons which are strap locks. As to be expected, there is some wear on the gold plating and nicks, dings all over but overall it is a really nice, playable guitar in very good condition with no serious issues.

Included is a typical mid 60’s ES case with black tolex and orange lining that is also in good condition.

Come down and give it a go, we think you will be pleasantly surprised at how good a 355 can play and sound without the stereo gubbings attached…