1960/1961 Gibson ES-345 Red

Changes were in the works at Gibson at the end of 1960 and into 61. The long guard was replaced by the short guard. The amber switch tip went away and the white tip appeared. The neck got very slim (but actually got slightly wider). The watermelon red gave way to the more stable red that didn't fade. The case went from brown to black. The knobs went from bonnet to reflector. This is a transitional 345. It was lucky enough to get the desirable long guard, the amber switch tip and the watermelon red. It's worth mentioning that the guard had a name engraved on it that has been mostly removed and is invisible from a foot away. The serial is January 61 but the factory order number is 1960. That means the build was started in 1960 and the completed guitar was shipped in 1961. Call it a 60, call it a 61. I usually call that a 60/61. Most sellers call it whatever will sell for more money (meaning a 60 in this case). The guitar is all original except for the frets and the tuner tips. Unfortunately, the PAFs have lost their stickers. Because the solder from the pickups is unmolested, it's a virtual certainty that these are PAFs. All 60's and all 61's had them. The guitar is wired in its factory stereo with the Varitone intact and functioning. It appears that other tuners have been on it judging by the very slight indentations around the tuner shaft holes. The shaft holes themselves don't appear to have been enlarged so the tuners weren't Grovers or Schallers. They are now vintage correct single line single ring gold Klusons. It appears that the tips were replaced and aged. Neck is wide and slim-more 61 than 60. Pickups both read in the mid to upper 7's. Condition is 8+/10 due to wear on the back of the neck. Checking is minimal and the finish is in very good condition. It's a great player with all the honk and growl a blues or rock player could want. Brown case in very good condition with one broken latch.