Probably the cleanest late-'50s ES-175D we've ever offered. Original finish throughout, with original bridge, tailpiece and knobs. The pickups, pots, switch and wiring harness are from Tom Doyle, (Les Paul's guitar tech for many years in Paul's long and productive life). The "Doyle Coil Tru-Clones PAF" set and " '59 Holy Grail Harness Pack" are the highest quality parts available, and along with it Kluson Supreme tuners were installed, which match the appearance of the original Kluson Deluxe but offer an 18-to-1 ratio. These upgrades, plus the refret, result in a 175 that plays and sounds like the best (and most expensive) boutique reissues, but instead it's the real deal from Kalamazoo during what is considered to be Gibson's finest hour for electric guitars. The finish has some light finish checking, mostly on the top, and only the lightest signs of playing wear (such as some marks to the headstock facing from string ends).The original case is in equally fine condition, with the Gibson badge underneath the original leather handle.
The S code Factory Order Number (FON) indicates the production was in 1959, and it certainly has the coveted late '50s neck profile. The serial number suggests 1960, but Gibson assigned serial numbers just before guitars were shipped and these kinds of gaps between FON date and serial number date are common with Gibson.
