This early 1970s Gibson ES-335 in a rich Walnut finish has a warm resonance, articulate tone, and that unmistakable Gibson feel. Built during one of Gibson’s most iconic eras, this example features its original T-Top humbuckers, known for their clear top end, open mids, and dynamic response that shaped countless classic recordings. At some point, the pickup covers were removed making the pickups snap and bite a bit harder but maintaining the T-Top tone.
Overall, this guitar remains in great playing shape for its age and is structurally solid with no cracks or breaks that affect stability or tone. It shows the kind of honest playwear you’d expect from a well-loved vintage instrument. There are small dings and dents along the binding and headstock edges, light to moderate scratching on the back, typical pickwear, and moderate fret wear that still plays comfortably with no buzzing or dead notes. The walnut finish has aged beautifully, and the binding has mellowed to a soft cream hue, creating a look that can’t be replicated by modern guitars.
The neck has a comfortably broken-in medium C profile typical of this era, with smooth action and strong resonance both acoustically and amplified. The T-Top pickups deliver everything from woody cleans to biting rock tones, making this ES-335 a truly inspiring instrument — equally at home on stage or in the studio.
Specifications
Model: Gibson ES-335
Year: Early 1970s
Finish: Walnut nitrocellulose lacquer
Body: Laminated maple semi-hollow with solid maple center block
Neck: Mahogany, medium C profile
Fretboard: Rosewood with dot inlays
Frets: Original medium jumbo, moderate wear
Pickups: Original Gibson T-Top humbuckers (pickup covers removed)
Electronics: 3-way toggle, 2 volume, 2 tone
Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with stopbar tailpiece
Hardware: Chrome, lightly tarnished from age
Nut Width: Approx. 1 9/16"
Scale Length: 24.75"
Weight: 7.45 lbs
Condition: Overall Very good! There are nicks, dings, light scratching, and buckle rash consistent with age; structurally solid and excellent playing condition
