1970 was a fantastic year for the Gibson SG, shipping 12,914 units - more than in any other single year in the period 1961-1979, with the remarkable performances of SG users Clapton, The Who and Santana at Woodstock the previous year undoubtedly helped boost sales. Known for its extremely low frets and fast action, the SG Custom was a popular solid body lead guitar. The extra slim, low-action neck joins the body at the 22nd fret, allowing players to achieve increased flexibility and versatility at the upper end of the fretboard.
This Walnut finish 1970 Gibson SG Custom is a superb all original example of this rare guitar. Featuring Ultra thin hand contoured double cutaway body; gold plated hardware; Extra slim fast action neck with Ebony board, deluxe pearl inlays and super low frets (fretless wonder); adjustable Tune-O-Matic bridge; Three powerful Humbucker pickups controlled by 2 volume, 2 tone and a 3 way selector; and of course the Deluxe Gibson Vibrola tail piece.
The guitar is in great condition with frets and fretboard spot on – only a tiny bit of visible wear on first couple of frets. The body does have some minor dings around the edges and swirl markings on the body but generally it is in really good condition (see last 8 pictures). There are a couple of visible marks on the back of the neck caused many years ago by a rogue staple in the lining of the case (staple long gone).
As stated above the guitar is all original, with one tine exception – the tip of the scratch plate on the upper treble side is a repair and not original (see last picture). The other tips of the scratch plates do all have cracks as shown in the pictures. The serial number comes back as 1968, however the Walnut finish and volute say more 1970 - pot codes are mostly covered in solder but combining the bits we can read would also indicate 1970. The guitar comes complete with the original Gibson hard case it was sold with – case has dealers badge on it indicating that this guitar started out in Sydney, Australia.
This is a really rare guitar and we do not know when we will see another, especially as original and in such good condition.
This guitar will be hand delivered within mainland UK for £75.00. Hand delivery will be on the first available Sunday or Monday following purchase.
Customers outside of UK should contact Vintage Rare & Retro Guitars for a shipping quotation. Free pick-up is always available at our Gullane shop.
