The Gibson ES-335

The Birth of a Semi-Hollow Legend

Few guitars blend warmth, clarity, and power quite like the Gibson ES-335. Introduced in 1958, it became the world’s first semi-hollow electric guitar featuring a solid center block — a revolutionary design that delivered the resonance of a hollow-body with the sustain and feedback control of a solid-body. The result was a perfectly balanced instrument that appealed to jazz, blues, and rock players alike.


1961 Gibson ES-335

Curious what a vintage ES-335 is worth today? Visit our Vintage Gibson ES-335 Value & Appraisal page for the most up-to-date information.

A Brief History of the Gibson ES-335

When the Gibson ES-335 debuted in 1958, it offered something truly new: a guitar that captured the warmth and richness of a hollow-body while remaining stable and powerful at high volumes. Designed by Gibson’s chief engineer Herkimer Von Lichtenstein, the ES-335 featured a solid maple center block running through a laminated maple body — a brilliant innovation that allowed players to push the instrument harder without uncontrollable feedback.

The ES-335 quickly became a staple in jazz and blues for its smooth, articulate tone, and its versatility soon made it a favorite in rock and roll as well. Icons like B.B. King, Eric Clapton, and Chuck Berry helped establish it as one of the most influential guitars ever made. Across decades and genres, the ES-335 continues to stand as a testament to Gibson’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.


1964 Gibson ES-335

Design & Features: What Makes the ES-335 Iconic

The Gibson ES-335 remains one of the most versatile guitars ever built. Here are the key features that define its tone and feel:

  • Semi-Hollow Construction with Center Block: A solid maple center block reduces feedback and adds sustain, while the laminated maple body offers warmth, clarity, and balance.

  • Classic “F” Holes: Traditional hollow-body styling that enhances resonance while preserving a modern, focused tone profile.

  • Gibson Humbucking Pickups: Dual humbuckers deliver a wide tonal range — from smooth, clean jazz textures to powerful, roaring rock tones.

  • Elegant Binding & Contours: The ES-335’s body shape and binding lend it a refined, timeless look with a comfortable feel that suits a wide variety of players.


1970 Gibson ES-335

The ES-335’s Role in Shaping Music

The Gibson ES-335 reshaped the musical landscape with its ability to bridge genres seamlessly. Its tonal flexibility allowed artists to move effortlessly between clean, mellow lines and gritty, powerful riffs. Several legendary players helped cement its iconic status:

  • B.B. King: His beloved “Lucille,” a variation of the ES-335, delivered warm, expressive tones that defined generations of blues music.

  • Chuck Berry: A pioneer of rock and roll whose fast, energetic riffs and signature style were perfectly suited to the ES-335’s clarity and punch.

  • Eric Clapton: Used an ES-335 during his time with Cream, pushing the guitar to its limits with fiery solos and expressive blues phrasing.

Over the decades, the ES-335 has remained a staple in the hands of innovative musicians, continuing to shape the sound of modern music.

Current Market Value of Vintage Gibson ES-335s

Vintage Gibson ES-335s have seen steady appreciation over the years, making them favorites among collectors and players. Several key factors influence their value:

  • Early 1960s Models: Dot-neck ES-335s from 1961–1963 are among the most collectible, prized for their tone, slimmer neck profiles, and classic styling.

  • Custom Finishes: Rare colors like Cherry Red and Natural often command higher prices, especially when well-preserved.

  • Player-Grade Examples: Even well-worn instruments or those with minor modifications remain valuable — especially if original pickups, hardware, and electronics are intact. Guitars with unique stories or artist connections can bring a premium.


1959 Gibson ES-345 — a closely related model

Why Sell Your Gibson ES-335 to Garrett Park Guitars?

At Garrett Park Guitars, we understand the history, craftsmanship, and emotional value behind every vintage ES-335. Our team offers:

  • Professional Appraisals: Expert evaluations based on year, originality, condition, and current market trends.

  • A Smooth, Hassle-Free Process: We make selling simple, transparent, and stress-free — with no pressure.

  • Decades of Expertise: With 30+ years in the vintage guitar world, we’ve earned a reputation for fairness, knowledge, and trustworthy service.

Your Gibson ES-335’s Next Chapter

The Gibson ES-335 is one of the most influential guitars ever built — a timeless instrument with a sound and feel that continue to inspire players today. If you’re considering selling your vintage ES-335, trust a partner who truly understands its worth and respects its legacy.

Whether you own an early dot-neck, a custom-color gem, or a player-grade workhorse with stories to tell, contact Garrett Park Guitars for a no-obligation consultation. Let’s help you discover what your ES-335 is really worth — and what its next chapter could be.

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