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Description

Step back in time with the 1940 Gibson ES-100, a true testament to the early days of electric guitar innovation. As one of the pioneering models in Gibson's Electric Spanish line, the ES-100 is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of musical history that laid the groundwork for the iconic ES-125. This semi-hollowbody guitar is designed with a unique X-braced spruce top, offering a warm, resonant tone that has captured the hearts of guitar enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The ES-100 features a single blade-style pickup, encased in a distinctive white housing, delivering a vintage sound that echoes the golden era of jazz and early rock 'n' roll. Its rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience, while the silkscreen logo adds a touch of classic elegance to its design. Though it might not boast the playability of its successors, the charm and character of the ES-100 make it a prized possession for those who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of vintage guitars.

Whether you're a collector of historical instruments or a musician seeking a timeless sound, the Gibson ES-100 offers an authentic glimpse into the past with every strum.

Key Features:

  • X-braced spruce top for enhanced resonance
  • Single blade-style pickup with white housing
  • Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Historical significance as an early Electric Spanish model
  • Silkscreen logo for classic Gibson aesthetics

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model ES-100
Finish Sunburst
Year 1938 - 1941
Made In United States
Categories Hollow Body Guitars
Body Shape Non Cutaway
Body Type Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson ES-100
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Frets 19
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1940 Gibson ES-100?

The 1940 Gibson ES-100 features a set-neck construction with a comfortable, rounded profile, typical of vintage guitars from this era, providing a smooth playing experience for both rhythm and lead styles.

What kind of music is the 1940 Gibson ES-100 best suited for?

The 1940 Gibson ES-100 is well-suited for jazz, blues, and early rock and roll, thanks to its warm, resonant hollow body tone and classic single-coil pickup configuration.

Does the 1940 Gibson ES-100 have a cutaway design?

No, the 1940 Gibson ES-100 features a non-cutaway hollow body design, which contributes to its rich, full-bodied acoustic resonance and vintage aesthetic.

How many frets does the 1940 Gibson ES-100 have?

The 1940 Gibson ES-100 comes with 19 frets, offering a traditional range suitable for a variety of playing styles typical of its era.

What type of pickup configuration does the 1940 Gibson ES-100 have?

The 1940 Gibson ES-100 is equipped with a single-coil pickup, providing a clear and articulate sound that is ideal for capturing the nuances of jazz and blues music.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1940 Gibson ES-100.

Features and functionality

  • The 1940 ES-100 features a Gibson speed bump lap steel P-13 pickup, distinguishing it from similar models which often have Harmony-style pickups.

    Source
  • The ES-100 lower bout measures 14 3/4 inches, smaller compared to the ES-150's 16 inches, affecting resonance and tonal depth.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ES-100 was renamed to ES-125 by 1941, with only slight differences such as a larger bout size in the ES-150, highlighting its transitional nature in Gibson's lineup.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses 1940 Gibson ES-100

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

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Verified via Christies

Eric Clapton acquired a 1940 Gibson ES-100, primarily for his collection, as detailed by Christie's.

Genre Usage

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