Gibson Custom Shop L-5 Wes Montgomery James Hutchins Build - USA 1998

Here is a 1998 Gibson L-5 Wes Montgomery, built by master luthier James Hutchins during a highly regarded era of the Gibson Custom Shop, and representing one of the most important archtop designs in Gibson’s history. Created to honour Wes Montgomery, this model captures the essence of his iconic tone through its carved spruce top, maple body, and single neck pickup configuration, delivering the warm, rounded jazz voice that defined his sound.

This example is in stunning original condition and presents as a beautifully preserved instrument from a standout period of Custom Shop production. Hutchins’ build quality is evident throughout, with exceptional balance, clarity, and resonance, alongside refined binding work, rich maple figuring, and a finely executed nitrocellulose finish. It feels light, responsive, and acoustically alive in the hands.

Tonally, it delivers everything expected from a high-end L-5 Wes Montgomery model. The single neck-position humbucker produces a thick, warm, and expressive jazz voice with smooth highs, a full midrange, and excellent dynamic sensitivity. Chords bloom with depth and colour, while single-note lines carry a fluid, singing quality strongly associated with Wes’ playing style. The carved spruce top enhances acoustic projection and responsiveness, making it feel lively even before amplification.

The neck profile is comfortable and well proportioned, with clean frets and low, even action that supports effortless playing across the entire fingerboard. Condition is excellent throughout with only minimal signs of handling. It comes complete with its original brown Gibson case with pink lining, along with an additional travel case as pictured. A rare and significant example of Gibson’s archtop legacy.

Specifications:

Year: 1998
Country: USA
Model: Gibson L-5 Wes Montgomery
Finish: Nitrocellulose lacquer
Body: Carved spruce top, figured maple back & sides
Neck: Three-piece maple
Fingerboard: Ebony, block inlays
Scale: 25.5" 
Pickups: Single neck position humbucker
Case: Original brown Gibson case with pink lining and spare travel case