Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $5,706
High-end/Boutique
$500
$1201+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue is a masterful tribute to a legendary semi-hollowbody electric guitar that remains a staple in music history. Lovingly crafted with precision and passion, this reissue captures the essence of the original 1961 model, offering an experience that is as close as you can get to a vintage classic. The guitar's 3-ply maple/poplar/maple body resonates with a rich, woody sound, while the Custombucker pickups deliver authentic, smoky humbucker tones that transport you back to the golden age of rock and blues.
Every detail of this guitar is a testament to Gibson's dedication to authenticity. From the vintage-correct '61 Skinny "C" neck profile to the rosewood fingerboard adorned with pearloid dot inlays, each element has been meticulously replicated. The guitar's construction features a solid mahogany neck attached with traditional hide glue, enhancing both its durability and tonal qualities. The nitrocellulose lacquer finish, complemented by a Vintage Original Sheen, ensures that the guitar not only looks like it has been cherished for decades but also feels like a well-loved heirloom.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic collector, the 1961 ES-335 Reissue promises a playing experience that is both nostalgic and inspiring. Its combination of historical accuracy and modern craftsmanship makes it a standout instrument for those who appreciate the timeless allure of a classic Gibson guitar.
Key Features:
- 3-ply maple/poplar/maple semi-hollowbody
- Solid mahogany neck with '61 Skinny "C" profile
- Rosewood fretboard with pearloid dot inlays
- Custombucker Alnico III humbucker pickups
- CTS 500K audio taper potentiometers and paper-in-oil capacitors
- Vintage Original Sheen nitrocellulose lacquer finish
- Kluson Double Ring tuners and Top Hat knobs
- Includes case and certificate of authenticity
- Made in USA
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Semi-hollowbody |
| Body Shape | 1961 ES-335 |
| Body Material | 3-ply Maple/Poplar |
| Body Finish | Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer with Vintage Patina |
| Neck Material | Solid Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Authentic '61 Skinny C |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fingerboard Material | Indian Rosewood |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Pearloid Dots |
| Number of Frets | 22, Medium Jumbo |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Nut Width | 1.687" |
| Nut Material | Nylon |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Lightweight Aluminum Stopbar Tailpiece |
| Tuners | Kluson Single Line, Double Ring |
| Neck Pickup | Custombucker Alnico III Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | Custombucker Alnico III Humbucker |
| Controls | 2 x volume, 2 x tone |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | Gibson, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue?
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The neck profile of the Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue is an Authentic '61 Skinny C, offering a slim and comfortable feel that is ideal for fast playing and easy access to upper frets.
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What type of pickups are featured in the Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue?
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This guitar features Custombucker Alnico III Humbuckers in both the neck and bridge positions, providing a classic, vintage tone with a warm and articulate sound.
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Is the Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue suitable for jazz music?
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Yes, the semi-hollowbody design and rich tonal characteristics of the Custombucker pickups make this guitar well-suited for jazz, offering a warm, resonant sound with excellent sustain.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue?
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The body is made of 3-ply Maple/Poplar with a gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish, and the neck is solid mahogany with an Indian rosewood fingerboard, providing a blend of durability and classic tone.
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Does the Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue come with a case?
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Yes, the guitar comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection and easy transport.
Reviews
PROS
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Historically accurate 1961 design with Skinny C neck
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Incredibly resonant with fantastic pickup sound
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Beautiful craftsmanship and aesthetically stunning
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Comfortable, slimmer neck design enhances playability
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Collectible quality, appealing to guitar enthusiasts
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Superior tone, both dirty and clean
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High build quality meets Gibson's reputation
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Excellent playability as compared to other ES-335 models
CONS
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High price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
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Requires comparison with similar models to justify cost
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue.
Comparisons
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The '61 Reissue ES-335 is noted for its brighter tone and better separation compared to the Trini Lopez Signature, possibly due to its Trapeze Tailpiece and nylon saddles.
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Owners have observed that the '61 Reissue ES-335 delivers a brighter sound than Les Pauls, highlighting its distinct tonal character.
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Owners compare the CME Spec Custombuckers in the '61 ES-335 with Wildwood Spec Custombuckers in a 2001 Les Paul Studio, noting differences in tonal characteristics.
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Owners report that the Epiphone's 335 model feels thicker and less resonant compared to the Gibson, indicating a noticeable difference in playability and sound quality.
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Features and functionality
User experience
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A player polished the VOS finish to a gloss, suggesting some owners may prefer a shinier appearance over the aged look provided by the factory.
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The placement of the pickup selector switch on the ES-335 is inconvenient for quick changes, though some players appreciate its location for being out of the strumming path.
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Build quality
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The guitar features a heavy antique Pelham blue VOS finish, which is a standout element for those who appreciate vintage aesthetics combined with modern craftsmanship.
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The Gibson ES-335 features a three-ply maple-poplar-maple body construction, while the Epiphone uses a five-ply Asian maple, affecting weight and resonance.
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Use cases and applications
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The ES-335 excels in controlled feedback, providing warm and musical tones, making it suitable for various settings, including live performances.
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Artist usage
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Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '61 ES-335 Reissue, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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