Collings I-35 LC Antiqued Boot Burst w/ Ron Ellis Bettes

Continuing in our tradition of spec'ing neo-vintage style builds with one of our favorite builders, this Collings I-35 LC draws inspiration from a rare 60s semi-hollow.

Have you ever seen an original Gibson with an Argentine Grey finish? This rare Sunburst variant found its way onto a select number of Gibson's models over the years, including the venerable ES-335. With a paler center and the absence of the red commonly seen in Tobacco Sunburst finishes, Argentine Grey presents as an earthier 'burst, sometimes with green highlights that mix to darkened brown edges. It's not a drastic change by any means, but it's noticeable...and it's just a beautiful look.

Our goal with this I-35 LC was to tip the cap to an original early 60s Argentine Grey 335. It features an Antiqued lacquer finish (see the 470 JL for reference) that gives the guitar a nice vintage luster that actually seems to highlight the uniqueness of the Boost Burst even more. Collings also shot a full body 'burst, so the top, back, sides, and neck rock the same look. The dimension, the contrast, the visual dynamic between finish, hardware, and plastics... it's all there. A pair of Ron Ellis Bette humbuckers were the obvious choice for this build. Rich, powerful, and never lacking in top end chime, they give this I-35 an articulate and responsive voice that has the kind of harmonic energy suited for great clean and edge-of-breakup tones as well as full on fuzzed out rock.

We won't even get into fit and finish. The Collings Standard exceeds expectations with every guitar we have in our shop, and this Boot Burst beauty is no exception.

We're having so much fun doing these deep dive vintage-inspired builds. It allows us to be creative with our inventory and also showcase the immense talent coming out of that fine shop in Austin. If you want uncompromising feel and playability with vintage vibe and attitude, look no further.