Gibson L5CES Sunburst 1972

This stunning 1972 Gibson L5CES is a true showpiece that perfectly embodies the grandeur of Gibson's legendary archtop tradition.

In 1951, the electric version of the Gibson L5 was released, with the first 31 CES (Cutaway Electric Spanish) models equipped with P90 single-coil pickups. Although these initial electric versions were produced in limited numbers, they marked a new era for the L5. Gibson's engineers continued to refine the design, leading to significant updates and innovations in the evolution of this model.

In 1958, the L5 CES achieved its classic form, equipped with two humbuckers. This established it as a top instrument for professional musicians. The combination of the solid spruce top with the maple body and neck provides a sublime balance of warmth and definition, exactly what you would expect from a high-end archtop. The two Gibson Patent No. 1 humbuckers in the neck and bridge positions give this guitar a versatile character that is at home in both jazz and other genres.

The graceful design shines from the trapeze tailpiece to the classic flowerpot inlay on the headstock. And the relatively slim neck, for a large guitar, makes for a very smooth and easy playability. A worthy representative of one of Gibson's most prestigious models!

This 1972 Gibson L5CES has exactly that vintage vibe we love about vintage Gibsons! The finish shows some crackle, and the body and neck display playwear that reveals years of respectful use; this is an instrument for the connoisseur! The gold-colored hardware also shows the ravages of time, and the pickguard is no longer mounted on the guitar. While it is included, it is warped and crumbling—a fate that unfortunately befell many old pickguards.

The guitar also has original electronics, hardware, and frets. The bridge pickup measures a higher output value than usual with the volume turned up, but with the volume turned down, it also exhibits a resistance of about 3.3K. A ground wire is soldered from the bridge pickup wire to the tailpiece, which may explain this higher resistance. Connected to an amplifier, the bridge pickup doesn't produce a significantly higher signal than the neck pickup.

The guitar comes with a TFOA passport and comes in a hardshell case.

Consignment.