Since its production began in 1942, the Gibson J-45 has been a beloved model for countless musicians throughout the ages, leaving its mark on numerous classic albums. While undergoing numerous minor changes throughout its long history, the J-45 remains a popular and iconic Gibson model.
Its enduring appeal lies in the diverse charms of each era and specification. This particular J-45 is a cherry sunburst model, revived in 1969.
Because the bridge has been modified with a fixed saddle, it's offered at a very reasonable price! Features: Spruce top, mahogany sides & back, mahogany 3-piece neck, rosewood fingerboard & bridge, 43mm regular neck width (measured), 24.75-inch scale, 16-inch round shoulder.
From September 1969 onwards, Gibson switched to a 3-piece neck and returned to a regular 43mm neck width. Therefore, for those who want a regular neck from the early 60s but can't afford one, or for those who just can't get used to a narrow neck, a Gibson from the late 1969 regular neck era is a good option!
The sound is a crisp, punchy Gibson sound! The adjustable bridge holes have been filled and it has been changed to a fixed saddle, but the crisp, punchy sound characteristic of this era remains.
The solid lows, compressed mids, and crisp highs, all thanks to the fixed saddle, blend together to create a well-balanced and solid sound! For those who find the sustain a little lacking with a narrow neck and adjustable bridge, this Gibson offers a perfectly balanced sound that you'll love!
The instrument's condition shows some scratches and signs of age commensurate with its age, but there are no cracks in the wood or any repair history, and it remains in fairly good condition. The bridge itself is the original, underbelly-type bridge without dots, typical of late 1969 models.
The adjustable saddle section has been filled with wood, making it a fixed saddle. The tuning pegs appear to have been Schaller or something similar at one point, but have now been replaced with Gotoh Kluson-type pegs using conversion bushings.
Screw holes where Schaller tuners were likely attached are visible next to the pegs. The guitar is heavily weather-checked overall, but this is part of its vintage character.
Am I the only one who finds the balance between the faded cherry sunburst and the darker cherry color remaining near the end incredibly cool? There are, of course, many small scratches, but none are unnatural or noticeable for a vintage instrument, and the overall impression is one of a vintage aura.
The neck condition is excellent and perfectly straight. The current string height at the 12th fret is approximately 2.2mm on the 6th string side and 1.7mm on the 1st string side, making it very easy to play.
There is still room for further adjustment of the string height on the saddles. The frets have been replaced with jumbo frets, and they show almost no wear, with plenty of height remaining.
A generic hard case is included.
Customs Duty & Import Taxes
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.