Gibson Custom ES-5 - USA 1998

This 1998 Nashville built Gibson Custom ES-5 is a beautiful example of one of Gibson’s most elegant archtops. Built with a highly figured flame maple top, back and sides, the natural finish shows off the grain in a way that feels refined and timeless rather than flashy. Gold appointments throughout complete the look and suit the ES-5 perfectly.

The classic three pickup layout features three original black P-90s, offering a wide tonal range that runs from warm, rounded jazz tones through to clear, articulate bite with plenty of harmonic detail. It’s an incredibly versatile archtop that still retains the depth and authority the ES-5 is known for.

The neck sits very comfortably in the hand, with a nicely balanced profile that feels substantial without being bulky. Original frets remain in excellent condition with plenty of life left, contributing to a smooth, confident playing feel across the board. It’s set up to play cleanly and easily, with low action that makes extended playing sessions a pleasure.

Condition is excellent overall, with hardly any marks to speak of and no issues of note. This is a very clean, well cared for example that presents beautifully. It comes complete with its original hard shell case.

A stunning late 90s Gibson Custom ES-5 that combines visual elegance, classic P-90 tone and effortless playability.

Features:

Action at 1st Fret: 0.5mm

Action at 12th Fret: 2.0mm

Neck Depth at 1st Fret: 20.5mm

Neck Depth at 10th Fret: 25.2mm

Nut Width: 43.25mm

Width at 12th Fret: 53.39mm

Weight: 3.3kg

Year: 1998

Country of Manufacture: USA

Factory: Nashville

Model: Gibson Custom ES-5

Body Construction: Fully hollow archtop

Top: Flame maple

Back: Flame maple

Sides: Flame maple

Finish: Natural

Neck: Maple

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Scale Length: 24.75"

Frets: Original

Inlays: Block

Pickups: 3 x original black P-90 single coils

Controls: Individual volume controls, master tone, 3-way selector

Bridge: Tune-o-matic style

Tailpiece: Gold trapeze tailpiece

Tuners: Grover

Hardware: Gold

Case: Original hard shell case