Gibson SG Standard, Cherry (1968)

1968 Gibson SG Standard model in original Cherry finish just into the shop!

The late 60s SG Standard model remains one of Gibson's most legendary solidbodies, with the likes of Angus Young perhaps being its most notable endorser. The larger pickguard and long vibrola gave it a distinctive look as a bookend to a successful decade with the slim-bodied rock machine.

This is a truly excellent sounding and playing example that's seen its share of playtime but remains solid as a rock and break-free.

It's outfitted with what appears to be its original Patent # T-Top humbuckers that were spliced into a replacement DiMarzio harness made by Centralab to DiMarzio's specs in late 1987. The pickups have that classic late 60s Gibson HB sound - clear and punchy with a openness to the top end that really comes alive with some gain. The tuners had been replaced with Grover Rotomatics at one point, but era-correct Klusons were reinstalled, with four of the tuners marked as true Kluson double lines and two marked 'Gibson', which had made their way onto Gibsons in the 1970s. Some light and clean finish touchup was performed on the peghead, likely to even out the marks left by the Grover bushings. Kluson conversion bushings were installed as well. However, there's no evidence of any headstock breaks or subsequent repair under blacklight.

The body was factory-routed for three pickups indicating its potential designation for a Custom model, but the middle position route has remained unused, and the specs of the instrument indicate it never made it up the chain to that Custom status.

It comes with a proper period-correct rectangle Gibson hardshell with the form-fitting plush interior. The latches have been replaced but work nicely, and someone hand-stenciled 'Gibson' where the prior logo would've been.