In the early 1960s, Gibson unveiled their revamped SJ model, transitioning from the traditional slope-shouldered J-45 to a square-shouldered design inspired by the Dove. Launched at the dawn of what would become a golden era in rock music, the SJ, along with other Gibson models of the time, left an unmistakable mark on the sonic landscape of the 1960s.
This 1964 SJ serves as an exemplary illustration of the era's sound and aura. Boasting a slightly sturdier construction, the SJ offers an immersive auditory experience. Its sound, characterised by warmth, full-bodied chordal resonance, and a deep, throaty bass, invokes the nostalgic sensation of listening to a beloved classic rock vinyl. Although predominantly linked with acoustic rock genres, the robust, rhythmic punch of the SJ also finds favour among flatpickers.
This Gibson SJ presents in excellent, stock condition and has been serviced regularly by industry respected luthier, Alan Rigg. There are a few small cracks in the original Gibson plastic bridge, and a small gap is appearing between the bridge and the top - This certainly doesn't hamper the robust sound of the guitar, nor does it affect the superb playability. The body of this SJ is remarkably clean with some marks and scratches only apparent on the top near the lower bout on the treble side. The neck has one small mark around the 9th fret, but hardly noticeable, and the rest of the neck is blemish free. The original tuners hold tune well and the truss rod works without an issue.
This is a gorgeous Gibson SJ dreadnought sharing all the positive parallels to a high-end, vintage Gibson Dove or Hummingbird - certainly worth a look.
Comes in non-original, period correct Stamford hard shell case.
Specs:
Scale length: 24.75”
Fretboard Radius: 12”
Weight: 1.95kg / 4.3lb
Action at 1st fret: 0.5mm
Action at 12th fret: 2.5mm
Neck depth at 1st fret: 20.21mm
Nut Width: 42.32mm
12 fret width: 52.07mm
Neck material: Mahogany
Fretboard inlays: Parallelogram Mother of Pearl
Top: Sitka Spruce
Body: Mahogany
Body size at lower bout: 16”
Tuners: Original Kluson Deluxe
Pickguard: Tortoiseshell
Bridge: Original Gibson Plastic
Electronics: No
Case: Non-Original Stamford HSC
