This 1955 Gibson Country Western marks a turning point in Gibson's slope-shoulder design language and straddles two different eras in Gibson flattop production.
Previously referred to as an SJN, or Southern Jumbo Natural, in 1955 the flapship natural finish build was rebranded as the Country and Western model, with a new pickguard while retaining some of the SJ appointments. A bound fingerboard, and bound body are present, along with the parallelgram inlays - all three of which were a hallmark of the SJ dating back to the late '40s. The biggest aesthetic difference in the first year 1955 Country Western, a feature that never appeared again, is the larger pickguard that from the factory covered up the treble side of the rosette. By '56 the pickguard material had been removed to reveal the rosette, but in '55 the large guard has a unique look that is completely specific to this first year build.
The guitar sounds incredible, there's a quick response to the string attack with all the round, warmth of a Gibson SJ. Thanks to the two scalloped tone bars, a feature that is longer present by '56, there's a big, full sound that is at home strumming cowboy chords as it is making old-time bass runs. This is one of the last scalloped tone bar builds.
The neck is a wonderful C-shape profile, not the big necks of the late '40s but still a substantial profile. The tuner buttons have been replaced, along with the bridge pins. Here in Very Good condition, there is playwear and checking through, along with capo/hanger wear to the headstock. This CW has previously had a neck reset and refret before arriving in our shop, and benefits from a Mass Street PLEK fret dress and setup. There is a small maple ball-end doubler on the bridge plate. Includes a modern replacement hardshell case.
