With classic semi-hollow construction and decade-matching specs, the tonal diversity of these guitars is almost endless
Gibson has unveiled two new ES-335™ models, the ES‐335 50s and ES‐335 60s, offering decade-correct details and the distinct ES-335 voice heard across blues, rock, jazz, and beyond. Both models are handcrafted in Nashville, Tennessee, and available worldwide now.
The new 50s and 60s guitars feature classic ES‐335 thinline, semi‐hollow construction, utilizing the original ES laminate press from Kalamazoo that was used in the construction of iconic instruments played by legendary artists. With three‐ply maple/poplar/maple tops, backs, and sides, and a solid maple centerblock for feedback resistance, each is voiced and styled to match its era.
Both new ES-335 models are finished in gloss nitrocellulose lacquer— Vintage Natural, Vintage Tobacco Burst, and Ebony for the 50s model, and Vintage Burst, Sixties Cherry, and Dark Walnut for the 60s—with each shipping in a Gibson hardshell case. The Ebony ES-335 50s model looks set to be especially popular—original vintage models in factory black are some of the most scarce and sought-after Gibsons of all.
The new Gibson ES-335 50s features a period-correct long pickguard with a wide bevel
The ES‐335 50s is built to capture the spirit of the earliest ES‐335s introduced in 1958, and pairs a Rounded C neck profile with Custombucker pickups (with Alnico 3 magnets) and vintage‐correct details like dot inlays and a longer pickguard. The ES‐335 60s is true to early‐60s originals, and delivers a faster SlimTaper™ neck, calibrated T‐Type humbuckers (with Alnico 5 magnets), and period‐appropriate appointments including small block inlays and a shorter, 60s‐style pickguard.
As one of the most innovative models to come out of the Ted McCarty era in Gibson history, as you can imagine, we are big champions of the ES-335’s design and prowess. But, if you’re still on the fence, then check out seven reasons why you need an ES-335 in your collection.
The ES-335 60s features small block inlays and the shorter pickguard typical of the period
The ES-335 is treasured by some of the most successful players in music. Last year, several artists appeared in a Gibson TV special to showcase their personal favorites, including Peter Frampton, Joe Bonamassa, Kirk Hammett, and more. Hosted by Mark Agnesi, it showcases Kirk Hammett’s vanishingly rare factory black 1959 ES-335, and also features Peter Frampton’s story of the journey to acquiring his beloved ’59 model in Cherry.
Additionally, you can learn more about unlocking all the best tones from your ES-335 through the Gibson Gear Guide, as Dinesh Lekhraj explores the wide range of sounds the ES-335 can achieve, revealing why its many variants have been so popular over the years.
The new Gibson ES‐335 50s and ES‐335 60s models are available now via Gibson.com, Gibson Garage locations, and authorized Gibson dealers.
