Oh, what an absolute beauty this one is!! And once again, proof that chasing after expensive Murphy Lab or other Custom Shop models instead of these superb original 1970s ES-335s makes absolutely no sense… The instrument itself, the build quality, and the playing comfort easily match, or even surpass today’s Custom Shop offerings. The neck, you might say? Think again. This neck has absolutely nothing to envy from modern guitars and is an absolute joy to play, with its full rounded profile and nut width of 3,96mm. But above all, it’s the tone, the weight, and the overall feel of the instrument that completely destroy any hope of finding these sensations on recent 335s… In short, still underrated and often overlooked, some 1970s 335s are true hidden gems, and this stunning ES-335 TD in Cherry Red finish, whose red has slightly faded into that gorgeous “Watermelon” hue typical of the 1950s (and obviously echoed today by Gibson’s modern Watermelon finishes), is a perfect example of the kind of 335 you absolutely should not overlook. Missing out on a guitar like this would be a real shame.

What a magnificent instrument!! The legendary ES series, which Gibson offered with either a fixed bridge, trapeze tailpiece, or Bigsby on the 335 and other models, underwent a few neck-related changes starting in 1965, and many late-’60s and early-’70s examples are often criticized for their slimmer necks… Yet the neck profile on this original 1974 ES-335 is pleasantly rounded, with a comfortable C-shape profile and a 39.6 mm nut width. The frets are recent, the refret was exceptionally well done, and the frets show no signs of wear or damage, with perfect height throughout. The playing comfort is phenomenal.

Otherwise, this ES-335 is entirely original: tuners, Patent Number pickups, electronics, finish, and hardware. The original Cherry Red finish has slightly faded, as is often the case with 1974 and 1975 production models, giving it that fantastic Watermelon appearance. Lightweight, this ES-335 delivers the snappy response you expect from an ES, but with a warmth and fullness that simply cannot be found in recent production models. The difference is striking. The tone is rounder, softer, and the overall sound balance offers 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 classic ES-335 attack and precision, but with added warmth and richness. Quite simply, it’s better.

The instrument is in excellent condition, with only a few light scattered scratches, mainly on the back, but no exposed wood, one or two small dings here and there, no cracks or damage whatsoever, and absolutely no modifications or repairs. Excellent overall condition, one of the cleanest examples we’ve had. Comes with its original case.