Few guitars in the world command the level of respect, admiration, and desirability as the Gibson ES-175. Introduced in 1949 and in continuous production until 2019, the ES-175 has long been regarded as the premier hollow-body jazz guitar. Its warm, resonant tone and versatile voice made it the instrument of choice for some of the most influential players of the 20th century. This particular example, produced in early 1960, represents a rare and extraordinary opportunity for collectors and musicians alike.
 
The ES-175 was first released with a sunburst finish and a single P-90 pickup, retailing for the modest price of $175. Over the years, its design evolved—first to dual P-90s in 1953, and later, in 1958, to the now-legendary humbuckers that defined Gibson’s golden era. Among these, the P.A.F. humbucker has become the most coveted pickup in Gibson’s history, celebrated for its unmatched tonal clarity, warmth, and dynamic response.
 
This instrument features its original untouched P.A.F. pickup—an absolute rarity that has remained intact for over six decades.
 
This ES-175 is one of only 226 produced in 1960, making it not just rare but highly collectible. Its originality is almost untouched—the original Kluson tuners, original frets still in good condition, and the original “Cali Girl” Gibson case all remain with the guitar. The only change over the decades is a later tailpiece replacement, a minor detail that does not detract from its authenticity or value.
 
Otherwise, this instrument is in astonishingly clean condition, showing almost no marks, a testament to how carefully it has been preserved.
 
The ES-175 has been the guitar of choice for countless legends. Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, Kenny Burrell, Jim Hall, Herb Ellis, Philippe Catherine and many other jazz icons helped define the sound of modern jazz on the ES-175. Rock players like John Frusciante, The Edge, Andy Summers, Mick Jones, and John Fogerty also embraced it for its expressive versatility. Holding this guitar in your hands is holding a piece of history—a direct link to the very tones that shaped entire genres of music.
 
This is not simply an instrument. It is a piece of Gibson history, a collector’s dream, and a musician’s inspiration. A 1960 Gibson ES-175 with an untouched P.A.F. pickup, in near-pristine condition, is almost unheard of today. You will not find another like this one.
 
Details:
Serial Number: A32814
Pickup: Original untouched P.A.F.
Tuners: Original Kluson
tailpiece : replacment
Frets: Original, in good condition
Case: Original “Cali Girl” Gibson case