CME shows off an early ES-355 (the 3rd)

[jb_abides]

Early example: 3rd 355 made, only 10 shipped in 1958, dealer Andy Nelson customized for original owner Kenny W. 'Huff' Hough [who according to Huff convinced Gibson into making the 355]. Holly veneer on the rear of headstock with a stinger... is it a prototype?

Amazing history with personal and period-correct photos interspersed with this tale, and the Bigsby tidbit is worth the price of your attention.

Of course, excellent playing by Nathaniel Murphy with close-up video.

Uniquely faded, not a watermelon.

And one for the Gibson-hater QC police, note the finish on the fingerboard binding above the guard. Great guitars were never totally perfect...

Vintage Vibes | 1958 Gibson ES-355 Prototype

Of all the guitars we’ve ever had in the Chicago Music Exchange Vault, the prototype 1958 Gibson ES-355 remains one of the most playable vintage guitars we’ve ever had! Learn all about this historic prototype model on CME’s Soundboard Blog.

www.chicagomusicexchange.com

 

[MarcB]

I’m very interested to see what Gibson produces within the es “historic” range (as rumoured)

 

[bursty]

guy said it's for sale so, you know JB gonna buy and ticket prices gonna higher

 

[jb_abides]

guy said it's for sale so, you know JB gonna buy and ticket prices gonna higher

I believe he stated word got out and it's already sold to a well know musician; also not listed on CME site.

Of course, it may well be JB (...the other JB ). Time will tell.