Gibson Custom Direct opens gallery of rare, sold guitars to public view

The Gibson Custom, Art & Historic division is opening its exclusive Gibson Custom Direct guitar gallery of sold rare and one-of-a-kind instruments to public view for the first time right here. The Gibson Custom Shop is known world-wide for offering collectors some of the finest, most exquisite guitars in history of the instrument. However, due to such factors as normal changes in production, creative experimentation, and the constant passion to create new and exciting instruments, a small but steady flow of rare and one-of-a-kind guitars are produced that never make it into retail stores. Last Fall, Gibson Custom Direct--an industry first, was formed where members would have access to these extremely rare and highly collectible instruments.

"This program essentially gives a limited number of guitar collectors a 'VIP access pass to our most sought-after limited edition guitars," says Gibson Chairman and CEO Henry Juszkiewicz. Gibson Custom Direct offers opportunities never before available to Gibsons consumers. This will include direct access to the Custom Shop, a personal support contact within the Custom Shop, invitations to global Gibson events, factory tours, and hand selection of instruments. Also included is access to the programs web site, which provides informative articles, membership information, and the ever-changing gallery of instruments offered to members only.

This past summer Custom Direct held its first annual Fantasy Camp and Banquet The camp, which took place on June 30th- July 1st, allowed members to work a full day in the Custom Shop, side-by-side with Gibson's luthiers.

Each member was given a guitar "pre-form" that they worked at each station in the factory, learning to route, carve, sand, finish, etc. The entire guitar manufacturing process was covered extensively, everything from wood selection to applying a sunburst finish by hand. In doing so, members were able to experience and learn first-hand how the world's finest guitars are manufactured.

Also at the camp, the Member's Banquet took place on Saturday July 1. The members were treated to celebrity appearances by rocker Webb Wilder and country artist Lee Roy Parnell as they performed with the Custom Shop in-house band. Over 100 Gibson Employees joined the members for dinner and dancing, and awards were given to commemorate their attendance as well as for the best sunburst finish from the previous day's Fantasy Camp.

With almost 150 members, there are only a few exclusive, charter memberships now available. Gibson Custom Direct™ is not for everyone. But if you're a guitar lover with a taste for truly unique, one-of-a-kind instruments, then this is a perfect opportunity to become a charter member of the industry's most exclusive club. Don't miss out on this opportunity to purchase your guitar - exactly your guitar. For more information or to join call 1-877-348-4827 or email cdirect@gibson.com.

Now go to the new Gibson Custom Direct public photo gallery right here.