Blonde. Bold. Born to be played. There’s a certain kind of magic people like to pretend can’t be bottled, but this 1978 Gibson ES-335 TD in Blonde comes remarkably close. It’s one of those late-’70s examples that’s aged into itself beautifully, carrying the unmistakable confidence of a guitar that’s been played, appreciated and quietly allowed to mature for nearly half a century. The three piece maple neck has that gentle, seasoned rigidity these era-335s are known for, offering a feel that somehow manages to be both familiar and subtly elevated; like it’s absorbed years of music and settled into its true personality. Its finish wears the kind of honest patina only time can create: lacquer checking running in delicate patterns, binding with small splits along the usual edges and a soft discolouration that gives the Blonde finish a richness no modern spray booth can replicate. Light surface marks and signs of use sit exactly where you’d expect after decades of real world play, though the guitar remains refreshingly free from any major knocks, save for a single chip at the bass side waist. Even the hardware tarnish feels fitting, as if it has has matured alongside the wood. The frets show minor wear and appear previously redressed and crowned, leaving them smooth under the fingers and ready for many more years of life. The Bigsby and roller bridge combination add expressive nuance, improving the tuning stability and without disturbing the guitar’s natural voice. Also, a brass nut subtly adds a shade more sustain and power than the typical stock nut. Plugged in, it has that airy, articulate semi-hollow resonance that collectors can always identify blindfolded. It’s lively without being brash, warm without being woolly and articulate enough to reward a lighter touch. It comes housed in a non-original Gibson acoustic case; an unexpected pairing, but one that suits it just fine. Main Features & Specs Colour: Blonde Serial: 73208150 Year: 1978 Top Material: Laminated Maple Body Material: Laminated Maple Neck Material: 3 Piece Maple Neck Profile: Slim Taper Fingerboard: Rosewood Frets: 22, Medium Scale Length: 24,75" Pickups: Gibson Humbuckers Bridge Type: Roller Adjustable with Bigsby (Original Not Included) Tuners: Gibson ‘Keystone’ Finish Type: Gloss Nitrocellulose Other Special Features: Shoulder Toggle switch for Coil Split Weight: 3.51 Kg Case: Non-Original Gibson (Acoustic Style) Hard Case All our pre-owned guitars and basses are sold freshly set-up & fully serviced in our state-of-the-art guitar workshop. The pre-sale service includes a 21 point check, including: Brand new strings Action Electronic components Neck angle and Truss Rod adjustment Hardware Fretwork Clean and condition inc. Fretboard Saddle​/​Bridge height, radius, intonation Nut The Absolute multi point pre sales service & set-up is free with every pre-owned guitar. Also included is a 12 month warranty