Available for sale is an all original 1997 Gibson Custom Shop ES-5 Switchmaster 17" hollow-body archtop guitar in the SUPER RARE and highly desirable Translucent Cherry lacquer finish. The top, back, and sides all display beautiful flame maple. All original ES-5 Switchmasters with humbuckers are becoming increasingly more difficult to find regardless of price or condition. Five-ply binding is installed on the fingerboard as well as on the front and back of the body. The five-piece neck (three pieces of flame maple with two walnut strips separating them) sports a pointed-end rosewood fretboard with large block inlays. The headstock is bound in front, has a stinger on the back and is factory equipped with gold-plated Grover tuners. B.B. King, Carl Perkins, and Wes Montgomery all turned to their ES-5s for their sonic versatility and its no wonder. The three humbucking pickups perform exceptionally well and―together with the four-position selector switch―offer a wide range of tones not otherwise found on a full hollow body electric. There are no alterations to the body, neck or electronics. No part of this guitar has been drilled since leaving the factory. The intonation is perfect and the action allows for smooth and easy playability. Hardshell case included.
*We are a FULL SERVICE shop, in business over 30 years, have a expert repair and Custom Modification department as well as an on-site Custom Shop for in-house mods and custom instrument builds. Guitar Villa, located in Bethlehem PA, is run by musicians, instrument and amp techs and we are here to help you with any product selection or use questions you may have. We can advise on the best value at any budget. We would be happy to give you an in-hand description of any item we list for sale. Contact us for all your questions or needs before and after the sale!
