(615) 915-1851 606 8th Ave S, Nashville TN
>
Hollow and Semi-Hollow Body

Gibson ES-357 Custom 1981, Sunburst

We accept Credit Card, ACH, Wire Transfer, Cash, Check, Affirm* & Split Payments. Contact to discuss payment methods
Authenticated by Vintage Experts
Shipments Protected at Full Value
48-Hours Return Window (3.5% Processing Fee for Affirm Transactions)
Want us to sell your instrument or get trade-in credit?
Click here to submit your instrument details
Got questions? Call Us
+1 (615) 915-1851
InstrumentHollow and Semi-Hollow Body
BrandGibson
ModelES-357
FinishSunburst
SKUGE2641-A
HandednessRight
Made In Year1981
Body MaterialMaple Laminate
Finish MaterialNitro
Neck/FingerboardMahogany (three ply)
Radius12"
Weight9.6lbs
TunersOriginal Kluson
Scale Length24.75"
Nut Width1.69"
Neck ProfileC
Neck Thickness.798"- .976"
ElectronicsSeymour Duncan Jazz in Neck and Bridge; '57 Classic in Middle Position
Pickup ImpedanceNeck - 7.2k; Middle - 7.6k; Bridge - 8.1k
Contains Brazilian Rosewood (Y/N)N
CaseOHSC
NoteCVG technicians use calipers to provide the accurate measurements found above. While instrument makers may aim for, and even market, certain nut widths for their models, we acknowledge variance within the manufacturing process and treat each instrument as an individual case. We believe that transparency of the instrument’s true measurements, down to decimal form, is essential for customers choosing to purchase remotely with confidence. The following are common industry nut width fractions converted to decimal form
1 9/16”1.563”
1 5/8”1.625”
1 11/16”1.688”
1 3/4”1.750”
1 7/8”1.875”

In 1981, a working musician went to Gibson and had them custom build a 3 humbucker ES-355 without F-holes. While the model number is lost to time, it is most commonly associated with the 357 series and likely cost in the ~$6k modern price range when evaluating a 1981 price list on artist series guitars. The switch holes and back access panel are factory original decisions, but its electronics were recently updated to reflect pre-1980s tastes. The neck and bridge humbuckers are Seymour Duncan Jazz and the middle is a '57 classic. The previous coil tap holes now host 3 pickup toggle on/off switches; each humbucker has their own volume knob. A varitone system was added, swell as a master tone. To keep up with the versatility, a modern B7 gold bigsby was re-installed (there is evidence of other bigsby units under it). There remains an unused pickup selector blade switch recess and one extra coil tap hole (now with a brass stud); perhaps you know a good use for these. This rebuild/reimagination was a labor of love and creates a stunningly beautiful all-purpose rig that doesn't dive too deep into the weird side (up to you to decide).

Comes with original hardshell case

*When using Affirm, we charge an additional 3.5% fee on the total at checkout. The majority of our instruments are consignment, where CVG keeps a small percentage of each sale. To be able to cover the additional costs required to offer financing, we have to include a higher fee to the customer. The 3.5% fee will be included in and spread across your Affirm payments.

Buying Through Carter Vintage