1955 Gibson L-5 CES Natural just in on consignment!

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.