SOLD - Vintage Gibson ES-175D in Custom Gold - USA 1955

A stunning and rare custom-ordered Gibson, this 1955 ES-175D is finished in 100% original gold, a colour almost never seen on an ES-175D, making it a true one-of-a-kind vintage archtop. While its appearance might recall an ES-295, this is a factory ES-175D, custom-ordered in gold—a rare but documented option for select players in the 1950s.

This guitar was previously owned by renowned professional jazz guitarist Dennis Tonge, adding further provenance to its history. It plays beautifully and has the rich, dynamic tone these mid-'50s Gibson archtops are famous for.

This ES-175D retains its original bridge P-90, while the neck pickup is a late '50s P-90 with a repro cover. At some point, the neck position had a humbucker installed, but it has since been professionally returned to P-90 specs. The wiring is intact, and the guitar retains its original 1955 Gibson warmth and articulation, with plenty of woody resonance and smooth dynamics. This work was completed and information verified by industry respected luthier - Piers Crocker.

The gold finish has aged beautifully, developing natural checking and the classic green patina that gives old gold-top Gibsons their unmistakable vintage character. The neck has been played down to the wood, providing a smooth, broken-in feel that makes this guitar an absolute joy to play. The original ES-175 trapeze tailpiece is intact although has had a repair, and all other hardware remains original.

A rare, custom-ordered vintage Gibson with professional pedigree, this gold ES-175D is an incredible instrument for jazz, blues, and vintage collectors alike.

Features:

Action at 1st fret: 0.5mm

Action at 12th fret: 2.0mm

Neck depth at 1st fret: 24.05mm

Nut Width: 43.13mm

12 fret width: 52.95mm

Weight: 2.53kg / 5.56lb

Finish: Gold

Body: Laminated Maple, Hollowbody

Neck: Mahogany, Stripped Finish

Fretboard: Rosewood, 20 Frets

Scale Length: 24.75”

Pickups: Bridge P-90 (Original), Neck P-90 (Late 50s)

Electronics: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Switch

Bridge: Floating Rosewood

Tailpiece: Original ES-175 Trapeze Tailpiece

Tuners: Kluson Deluxe

Case: OHSC