❌SOLD❌ Gibson ES-125D Archtop Electric Non Cutaway Sunburst, 1957

The Gibson ES-125D is a rare version of a pretty common instrument. The entry-level ES-125 was very popular, but had only a P-90 pickup in the neck position until, and for only, 1957.

Introduced in 1941 and offered until 1970 with production suspended between 1943 and 1946, the ES-125 was an ideal guitar for many genres. In 1956, Gibson began introducing thin body archtop electrics, and in 1957 added a second pickup to the both the thin and full body versions. However, the Gibson ES-125D was built in such small quantities that it didn’t even appear in catalogs, and was dropped the next year. Only the thinline versions kept the second pickup.

Like most of their other electrified arch top guitars, the Gibson ES-125D is built using laminate maple for the body, which resists feedback compared to solid Spruce and Maple. The body blocks, linings and neck are Mahogany, with Rosewood for the bridge and fingerboard. At this time, Brazilian Rosewood was used for these components.

Here we’re looking at a Gibson ES-125D, necessarily built during 1957 at the historic Parsons Street plant in Kalamazoo, Michigan. It is in overall good condition, but without its pickguard.

The original P-90 bridge pickup was replaced with a 1968 model, and the control knobs are replacements. There’s no evidence of structural damage or repairs. The finish does have natural and expected lacquer checking. There are a few small dings and dents in the finish. The frets appear to be original with moderate to heavy play wear particularly in the lower positions.

Still, this 1957 Gibson ES-125D plays cleanly and well – and these P-90s have a very full, rich sound.  The action height is good, with space left to lower the saddle if required.  

A hard shell case, not original, is included. Many of these guitars were originally sold with fibre (faux-gator cardboard) cases which have not survived well.