Gibson J-55 1973-1975
Description
Gibson J-55 1973-1975
The Gibson "J-55," which debuted in 1973 as the top-of-the-line model above the square-shouldered "J-45." It is one of Gibson's acoustic guitars that continues to be loved across the ages.
This time, a rare early 70s natural finish "J-55" equipped with tortoiseshell pickguard and binding has come in stock. The serial number is "A800009".
It differs completely in specifications from the so-called pre-war models that were released in the 30s-40s, adopting a square shoulder and laminated mahogany arch-back structure.
Other characteristics of the guitar that came in this time include the headstock logo with a dot on the "i," a large pickguard, A-series serial number, Grover pegs, and so on.
The string height is standard and there is no particular difficulty in playability; it appears you can use it without any particular stress in its current state.
It goes without saying that the tone differs greatly from current models, but early 70s "J-45"s often have different specifications from one instrument to another, and there are clear differences in sound because of this. This model appears to have been created with an arch on the back to aim for a larger acoustic resonance.
The tone of Gibson from this transitional period is a matter of personal preference, but for those who struggle with narrow necks, this is a perfect fit—it has a firm, pleasant high-end sound. It was a guitar that produced a very good tone when doing chord strokes with a pick. It is a very no-nonsense guitar.
【Accessories】Hard case
【Appearance & Condition】Weather checking, scuffing, paint cracks, fading on the neck back, scratches and dents—it has a well-used appearance characteristic of vintage guitars. There are traces of top crack repair.
【Truss Rod】Plenty of room
【Frets】Approximately 30%~
【Neck】Straight
【Nut Width】Approximately 43mm
【String Height】At the 12th fret: 1st string: approximately 2.0mm / 6th string: approximately 3.0mm
・If buzzing, deadened notes, or other issues that significantly impede playing are found, we will always note them. If there is no such notation, our store judges that there are no problems with the playing condition.
・Unless specifically stated as "Original" or "Replacement," we do not make definitive claims regarding specifications or condition.
・Regarding the truss rod, from a product protection standpoint, we only check approximately 45 degrees in both the tightening and loosening directions. (When marked "Plenty of room," this indicates there is approximately 45 degrees of room in both directions.)
・The posted content is as of the time of listing. There may be changes due to seasonality or age-related wear.
・Accessories are limited to those shown in the posted photos and listed on the sales page.
・As we conduct simultaneous sales at our physical store, there may be cases where the item is sold or under negotiation.
・We are unable to accommodate requests for specific delivery time slots.
・If you have any other questions or wish to try the instrument, please contact us via the inquiry form or our store email address (mion-gakki@mion.tokyo).
・Our store hours are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (11:00–18:30).