The Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue has long been regarded as one of the finest recreations of Gibson’s most iconic semi-hollow electric guitar.
This 1997 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue in Blonde (Antique Natural), serial number 93177372, is a particularly outstanding example, combining vintage-inspired specifications, exceptional craftsmanship, and a strikingly figured maple body. Built at Gibson’s Nashville factory on November 13, 1997, this guitar represents the company’s commitment to preserving the legacy of one of its most celebrated models.
Originally introduced in 1981, the ES-335 Dot Reissue was designed to faithfully capture the look, feel, and sound of the highly sought-after 1958–1960 ES-335 models, often considered the golden era of the series. Gibson returned to many of the original features that made these early instruments so desirable, including the classic dot fingerboard inlays, a comfortable late-1950s neck profile, nickel hardware, and traditional construction methods. The result was a guitar that delivered authentic vintage character while remaining accessible to modern players.
What makes this particular instrument especially desirable is its rare Blonde (Antique Natural) finish. Unlike more common sunburst examples, the natural finish beautifully showcases the quality of the maple used throughout the guitar. The top, back, and sides all display exceptionally attractive flame figuring, giving the instrument a unique visual presence that is rarely found on ES-335s of this period.
Tonally, the guitar offers everything players expect from a great ES-335. Its semi-hollow maple body, combined with a solid center block, delivers the perfect balance of warmth, resonance, sustain, and feedback resistance. Equipped with its original Gibson ’57 Classic humbuckers, it produces rich, articulate tones ranging from smooth jazz and blues sounds to powerful rock and classic rock textures. The traditional electronics layout, featuring two volume controls, two tone controls, and a three-way selector switch, provides outstanding versatility in any musical setting.
Whether on stage, in the studio, or as part of a serious collection, this 1997 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue stands out as an exceptional instrument. With its rare Blonde finish, beautifully flamed maple construction, original components, and vintage-correct specifications, it remains a highly desirable example of one of Gibson’s most iconic guitars.
Specifications
Model: Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue
Serial Number: 93177372
Production Date: November 13, 1997
Factory: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Finish: Antique Natural (Blonde)
Body: Semi-hollow flamed maple top, back, and sides with solid center block
Neck: One-piece mahogany, late-1950s profile
Fingerboard: Rosewood with dot inlays
Pickups: Original Gibson ’57 Classic humbuckers
Electronics: Two volume controls, two tone controls, three-way selector switch
Tuners: Original Grover tuners
Case: Original Gibson hardshell case