1960 Gibson ES-330T

For your consideration, Garrett Park Guitars presents this 1960 Gibson ES-330T.

The ES-330T is one of Gibson’s most distinctive vintage electrics, combining a fully hollow construction with the unmistakable character of a single dog-ear P-90. This 1960 example captures the charm of the model with its original sunburst finish, Brazilian rosewood fingerboard, Kluson Deluxe tuners, and classic ABR-1 bridge and trapeze tailpiece. At just 5lbs 7oz, it also has the wonderfully light and resonant feel that makes these early ES-330s so much fun to play.

By all appearances, this ES-330T remains all-original, and it is in excellent shape for its age. It has clearly been well cared for, with minimal play-wear and a beautifully preserved finish. The most striking feature of the guitar is its extensive natural lacquer checking: long, pronounced streaks run the length of the body, giving the sunburst a wonderfully distinctive vintage character. The checking is dramatic without detracting from the guitar’s otherwise very clean presentation.

There are a couple of quirks worth noting. A previous owner scratched their driver’s license number into the back of the headstock—more charming than concerning. There are also two small areas of amateur finish touch-up, one on either side of the neck heel. Aside from these details, the guitar presents exceptionally well, with no cracks, breaks, or structural repairs.

Most importantly, this ES-330T is not merely a great-looking survivor—it sounds fantastic. The combination of its fully hollow construction and original Gibson P-90 delivers the lively, woody, and articulate character that makes the early ES-330 such a special instrument.

This ES-330T is accompanied by an aftermarket Gibson hardshell case.

Specifications

All components original unless specified otherwise

Model & Year

• Model: Gibson ES-330T
• Year of manufacture: 1960
• Factory Order Number: R356827 (per previous owner's records; original stamp has faded)

Body

• Material: Laminated maple
• Finish: Sunburst nitrocellulose lacquer
• Weight: 5lbs 7oz

Neck

• Construction: Mahogany
• Fretboard: Brazilian rosewood
• Profile shape: C
• Nut Width: 1.67"
• Neck Depth: .80" (1st), .92" (12th)
• Inlays: Pearloid dots
• Frets: Original .103" x .38", good condition
• Tuners: Kluson Deluxe single-line

Hardware & Electronics

• Bridge / Tailpiece: ABR-1 with trapeze
• Pickguard: 4-ply
• Knobs: Bonnet-style 
• Pickup: P-90, 7.55Ω 
• Wiring: Original braided-metal

Condition

• Cosmetic: Very good with striking, consistent lacquer checking and minimal play-wear; previous owner's driver's license number etched into headstock; two small areas of amateur finish touch-up
• Structural: Excellent with no cracks, breaks, or repairs
• Accessories: Aftermarket Gibson hardshell case