Gibson Custom Shop L-5 CES Reissue - vos antique natural

The Gibson L-5 CES Reissue is a moving tribute to one of the greatest guitars in history, designed for musicians seeking sonic excellence and unparalleled aesthetics.

Overview

Inspired by Orville Gibson’s revolutionary carved archtop guitars and perfected by Lloyd Loar, the Gibson L-5 became an instant classic upon its debut in 1922. Originally an acoustic-only model, it was the first hollow-body guitar to feature F-holes. In the 1940s, it became the archtop of choice for jazz guitarists, notably the legendary Wes Montgomery, for whom Gibson would later create a custom model. The L-5 CES has been electrified since 1951 with a set of P-90 pickups, and the first 31 L-5 CES models produced at the Kalamazoo factory featured a rosewood bridge. By the end of 1957, some models were equipped with the legendary “Patent Applied For” humbucking pickups and an ABR-1 bridge. This version is considered the pinnacle of Gibson archtop guitars. The L-5 CES was played by legends such as Mother Maybelle Carter, Eddie Lang, Wes Montgomery, and many others.

A faithful replica of the original

Developed from 3D scans of original models from the late 1950s, the L-5 CES Reissue is a must-have guitar for jazz, country, blues, and rockabilly musicians looking to acquire an exceptional instrument—almost a work of art.

Exceptional craftsmanship for an unmatched sound

Enhanced by all-solid-wood construction of exceptional, top-tier quality, the L-5 CES Reissue features the following:

• Carved AAA Sitka Spruce top
• Carved back and sides made of AAA flamed maple
• Set neck made of AAA flamed maple and walnut with a 1950s Chunky D profile
• 20-fret ebony fingerboard with a 25.5" scale length

It produces incredibly deep, responsive, and resonant tones. The Gibson Custombucker Alnico 3 pickups capture every nuance of the guitar and your playing, just as authentic P.A.F.s would.