Gibson L-5 CES Natural (1955)

If there had to be one electric archtop that would qualify as the true "grand daddy" in Gibson's historic lineup, one could easily make the argument that the L-5 CES is #1.

A legendary model original introduced as an acoustic archtop by Lloyd Loar in 1923, the L-5 morphed into an electric guitar with the CES designation in 1951, and propelled the model into the next generation of guitarists taking the stage with amplification and bigger, louder bands.

This 'ol '55 is unquestionably one of the coolest vintage Gibsons we've had in the shop, and its got some professional musician credibility to back it. Previously owned by touring and session guitarist Jimmy Rip, this guitar was featured on Mick Jagger's 1993 solo album 'Wandering Spirit', specifically on the title track. Jimmy also used this on the Hall & Oates record 'Change Of Season'.

One of just 31 Natural-finished examples to ship in 1955, this L-5 CES has all the hallmarks of a great mid 50s electrified archtop. The pickups - an original pair of Alnico V Staple polepiece single coils - sound incredible in this guitar. There's some great fidelity and clarity as one might expect from this style of pickup, but also a certain warmth and smoothness to the response that makes these so special sounding. They work very well for Jazz, but sound amazing for Rockabilly, Country, and early Rock N Roll. The guitar was outfitted with an earlier Bigsby tailpiece many years ago, replacing the original L-5 tailpiece as evidenced by the old mounting holes visible on the lower bout rim. The pickguard appears as an older celluloid example, but based on the look of the material is not factory original.

The short barrel knobs are original to the guitar, which were phased out towards the end of the year in favor of new style bell or bonnet knobs. A newer nut was professionally installed at some point as well, but the fretwire remains original. A square metal jack plate was installed - likely in an effort to stabilize the input jack, as there's some evidence of minor repair to the area.

The guitar is accompanied by its original 4-latch Lifton hardshell case and a letter written and signed by Jimmy Rip disclosing his history with the guitar.