1956 Gibson ES-5 Switchmaster

SOLD

Do you like museums? Here's a piece that could very well belong in one: a 1956 Gibson ES-5 Switchmaster in collector's condition. Spectacular archtop, "uber" flame like the ones you'd find on some famous 'bursts,  and it includes... case candy!

We couldn't believe it either: "original finish?". After seeing it in person, we can certify it: 100%! We've seen some sickly clean old nitro finishes, but nothing like this. It's just insane. You can tell it's old, of course, since lacquer has shrunk down to the grain and is super thin (check the pickup selector picture). Also, "old" smell is a dead giveaway. Practically no checking, which is a hint of how well this one was taken care after.

Our pictures are a direct indication of the condition, which would satisfy the most demanding collectors. 100% original, though it might have been either professionally refretted or levelled at some time (some of the nibs are still there).

Includes original 5-latch brown hard case with pink interior. The model & serial number tag is included (!!). Also an era-correct box of strings (only 1 string included, and 2 string envelopes) is included, plus an ad from a magazine from that year advertising the guitar.

The sound is what you'd expect: huge, full, sweet, very deep and resonant. A true delight, no matter what pickup combination you're using. P90's read 7.68k Bridge, 7.80k Mid, 7.90 neck).

Collectors: you don't find them like these every day.
 

Details

Model: ES-5 Switchmaster
Series: ES
Year: 1956
Color: 3-Tone Sunburst
Top, back, sides: Figured Maple
Neck: 3-Ply Maple Neck
Fretboard: Rosewood
Scale Length: 25.5"
Nut Width: 1-11/16"
Frets: 20
Pickups: Three Single Coil black P-90 Pickups
Controls: 3 x Volume, 3 x Tone
Bridge: Tune-o-Matic Bridge with Rosewood Base
Tailpiece: Double-Loop Tubular Tailpiece
Body Width: 17"
Body Length: 21"
Body Depth: 3-3/8"
Hardware: Gold

Includes OHSC and case candy