1937 Gibson J-35

FON 78C-17. Easily among the cleanest Gibson J-35s around, this guitar looks younger than most of what we see here in the shop, even at 73 years of age. The photos should speak for themselves, but if they don't we'll fill in the blanks for you. The instrument is almost unplayed. There is close to no fretwear, only a few very minor scratches, a couple of tiny dings, a small area of case-rash on the lower treble side, no wear to the tuners, and very little discoloration of the finish from UV light, oxidation, or smoke. Two truly microscopic side cracks (you'd really have to look hard to find them), no loose braces, no repairs, and perfect arch to the top. The instrument was strung with original strings when we first met it some years ago, but we've since set it up. It was a one-owner instrument until earlier this decade, and appears to have been stored in its original case for what must have been most of its life. It is a true investment-grade instrument
This J-35 has 3 un-scalloped tone bars, V-shaped neck, two-tone sunburst top finish, and dark back and sides. The truss rod works well, and the action is currently set at 5 to 8 64ths with room left of the saddle to lower it further. Full height lacquered bridge, original saddle and unworn bridge pins. The sound is big, with a strong knod to the fundamental. Hoppy and present mids, but fairly dry and articulate overall -- it's a natural flatpicker that responds well to a heavy pick. 1-3/4" nut, 24.75" scale, 2-3/8 spacing at the bridge
With original softshell case.