1959 Gibson ES-335 Sunburst

We've all heard certain guitars referred to as "Holy Grails" and we ll know what they are (59 Les Paul, blackguard Tele, 54 Strat, Pre-war herringbone D-28 and 59 ES-335). You could argue a few more but no one would argue that these guitars are almost a requirement in a serious collection. The collectors know, however, that there are holy grails within the holy grails-certain aspects and features that elevate your holy grail to an even higher status. This is true of certain 59 ES-335's. All 59's are excellent-I've owned more than 100 59's and never had a bad one. But there is one configuration that consistently excels. This is what you need to find if you want the best of the best. First, a thin top. They are a bit fragile but the tone and sustain are unmatched. A thin top 59 will have been started in 58 and completed in 59, so it has a 59 serial and a 58 FON. Next, a pair of double white PAFs-no, they don't sound any better than blacks or zebras but everybody wants them. I can make an argument that they are usually wound a bit hotter than the black ones but even that doesn't necessarily make them better. But you want them, don't you? This is the hottest pair I've ever come across-the bridge reads 9.17K and the neck reads 8.95K. If it's got a 58 FON/thin top, it's going to have the big neck which is also what most collectors want. The medium neck of the later 59's is great for many players but for out holiest of grails, it's going to be the big one measuring at least .87" at the first fret and .97" at the 12th. This one is .88" and .99". The tone of this guitar is something special. It's aggressive AND articulate. The note separation and bloom is extraordinary. The harmonics jump out at you and you would swear there was reverb but there isn't. Condition is 9/10 with one significant ding in the top, some light coil cord rash on the back only and some very light checking. Front is moderately faded but still vibrant. Case is excellent. Everything is original except for the tuners. It has repros on it and a set of 59 Klusons in the case that need tips. Frets are original and at 80% or so. Plays beautifully. Case candy includes hang tag, PAF instructions and a case key. This 335 was sourced from the original owner.