Why go searching for expensive Murphy Lab or other Custom Shop models when these superb original 1970s ES-335s exist? The neck, you might say? Think again. This neck has absolutely nothing to envy from modern guitars and is an absolute dream to play, with its full, rounded profile and nut width just over 4 cm. But above all, it’s the tone, the weight, and the overall feel of the instrument that completely crush any hope of finding these sensations on more recent 335s… In short, still underrated and often overlooked, some 1970s 335s are true hidden gems, and this stunning ES-335 TD in Wine Red finish, whose color has remained remarkably deep and stable, is a perfect example of the kind of 335 you really shouldn’t overlook. Missing out on a guitar like this would be a real shame.

A magnificent instrument from a legendary series that Gibson offered at the time with a choice of fixed bridge, trapeze tailpiece, or Bigsby. From 1965 onward, the ES-335 underwent a few design changes, particularly to the neck. However, the neck profile on this original 1974 ES-335 remains fairly rounded, with a comfortable C-shape profile and a nut width of 40.3 mm. The frets are recent, the refret was extremely well executed, and the frets show no wear or damage whatsoever, with perfect height throughout. The playing comfort is phenomenal.

Otherwise, this ES-335 is entirely original: tuners, Patent Number pickups, electronics, finish, and hardware. Lightweight, this ES-335 delivers the snappy response you expect from an ES, but with a warmth and fullness that simply cannot be found on recent production models. The difference is striking. The tone is rounder, softer, and the overall balance delivers less harsh attack and bite than newer instruments. Honestly, with ES-335, the difference between modern and vintage guitars is obvious… You still get the characteristic attack and precision of an ES-335, but with enhanced warmth and richness. Quite simply, it’s better.

The instrument is in good condition overall and has clearly been well played, showing scattered scratches, visible playwear, a few small dings here and there on the body, and some marks on the back of the neck, but with no cracks, breaks, repairs, or modifications whatsoever. Comes with its original case.