Some guitars are preserved. Others are lived in. This 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom belongs firmly in the latter category—a serious player’s instrument with a storied past, thoughtful modifications, and undeniable character.
 
Originally finished in classic black, this Custom encountered neck issues early in its life, leading to a pivotal moment in 1975 when it was re-necked by the renowned J. Robert Willcut, a name synonymous with elite craftsmanship and uncompromising standards. The re-neck alone elevates this instrument into rare territory, but the story doesn’t stop there.
 
During the process, Anne Sheen, Willcut’s wife at the time, created a one-of-a-kind pearl inlay for the headstock—an artistic flourish that sets this guitar apart from any factory example. It’s subtle, elegant, and deeply personal, turning the headstock into a quiet signature of its history.
 
The guitar was refinished from black to a warm, expressive sunburst, revealing a visual depth that suits its evolved identity. The finish feels earned rather than flashy—perfectly aligned with the guitar’s role as a working instrument rather than a museum piece.
 
Electronically, it retains strong vintage DNA. The original pots date to 1970, preserving the tactile response and tonal sweep associated with early-’70s Gibsons. The pickups are Gibson humbuckers from the 1990s, delivering a balanced, muscular tone with excellent clarity—tight lows, vocal mids, and smooth highs that work equally well for clean passages and driven tones.
Hardware is a thoughtful blend of originality and practicality: the original bridge remains, anchoring the sound with vintage authority, while the stop tailpiece is a quality reproduction, chosen for reliability without compromising resonance. The original Gibson case is included, in rough but working condition, adding a final touch of period-correct authenticity.
 
In the hands, this Les Paul Custom feels exactly like what it is: a guitar that has been played, refined, and respected over decades. It’s not about untouched originality—it’s about evolution done right. The neck work is exceptional, the tone is alive, and the history is written into every note.
 
This is not a collector’s safe queen.
This is a player’s Les Paul Custom, shaped by master craftsmanship, real-world use, and a lifetime of music—exactly the way the best guitars come to be.