Gibson model ES-335TDC dating from 1964 - the same year as Clapton's.
Prior to my ownership, this guitar was owned by semi-professional guitarist James 'Big Jim' Ryder of the 60s beat group The Jimmy Crawford Four. Jimmy played this guitar extensively - it's literally been around the world (as far as Australia). It is a very well played guitar, but is free of any breaks, retains all of its original finish, hardware and electronics. The only non-original parts are the switch tip and knobs.
The best-sounding guitar I've had the pleasure of holding, being a 1964 model it features the Goldilocks specs of nickel hardware, a factory stop tail bridge and of course the inimitable '64 neck profile adorning a Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard. Further to this it retains its factory-fitted 'Patent No.' pickups, which are identical to late-period PAFs.
It has never had a Bigsby and has no extra holes or modifications. It lived quite a life under Jim's ownership, playing countless foreign and domestic gigs and it really bears it. The finish has worn away around the common playing areas, with a beautiful naturally-accrued vintage patina. These include a larger gouge to the back, countless dings, marks and signs of playing wear. Despite this, as a testament to Gibson's Golden Age build quality, again it is free of any breaks.
Atop of being a beautiful vintage guitar, it is also incredibly playable. It had been (forgivably) re-fretted during Jim's ownership and benefits from a full fret works and new nut by Dicky at Fontaine Guitars Nottingham (the best in the business). It is currently sporting a Faber nickel, nylon saddle repro bridge (in my opinion, the closest thing to an original ABR). The original ABR is included in the case, though like many of them has started sagging and one saddle has given way.
Pots and electronics all original and working. The neck tone pot is a little temperamental - but I've opted not to replace it in favour of maintaining its originality.
It includes a period Selmer case and Jim's original, signed publicity photo. Please see the listing for some contemporary pictures circa 1970s of Jim playing the guitar.
A 1964 ES-335 is undoubtably one of the most desirable vintage Gibson electric guitars owing to the Clapton connection and unrivalled specs. Many models have suffered neck breaks, refinishes and meddling - this guitar has not. As such, I feel this guitar represents an opportunity to own both a highly desirable vintage 335 and a guitar that you won't be afraid to pick up and play, free of all the usual issues.
An original Gibson Golden Era classic with some highly desirable features.