Explanation
『GIBSON KING OF THE FLAT-TOPS』
Compilation Volume 2 in progress "Please lend us your SJ/J-200"
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1956 Model / J-200
"This is the King of Flat-Tops"
The SJ-200/J-200 reigns supreme as the top model among Gibson acoustics.
Its 17-inch body width and long scale produce a truly unique sound.
Its powerful tone, combining boldness and brilliance, has been cherished by many musicians, including Bob Dylan, George Harrison, and Keith Richards.
Let's explore the appeal of this instrument!
- The floral carving on the reddish pickguard
Starting in 1955, the tortoiseshell pickguard, which had previously been more brown, was changed to a pickguard with a stronger reddish hue.
This model also reflects this specification change, beautifully showcasing the flower carving characteristic of the SJ-200/J-200.
The inlays are colored yellow, and all 12 dots are also colored yellow.
The top of the Super Jumbo body, befitting a top-tier model, features spruce wood known for its fine grain.
The body is finished in Brown Sunburst.
Pick scratches around the soundhole reveal that this guitar has played countless songs.
Double ring purfling is employed.
Beautifully figured maple is used for the sides and back, revealing different expressions depending on the viewing angle.
Black is applied to the neck heel and the tapered sides, while the body back features a burst finish designed to lighten the center.
The back strip features Pattern B, used from 1940 to 1958.
The fingerboard is rosewood, enhanced by crown inlays that add a touch of luxury.
The inlay design changes as you move up the fingerboard, creating an interesting visual progression.
The neck features beautiful figured maple, with a burst finish applied from the neck heel to the 1st fret and from the 9th fret to the neck heel.
The finish likely enhances the visual appeal without obscuring the beautiful grain patterns.
The neck shape features a comfortably thick grip that fits well in the hand.
The mustache bridge, a signature feature of the SJ-200/J-200, is crafted from rosewood.
Four mother-of-pearl square inlays are placed: two beneath the saddles and two beneath the bridge pins.
Additionally, this instrument features an abalone inlay added between the third and fourth string bridge pins on the triple moustache bridge.
This appears to have been added during a repair.
The large-sized headstock, featuring binding, bears Gibson's modern logo along with a crown inlay signifying a higher-end model.
The bell-shaped truss rod cover features a thick white border.
The truss rod cover is positioned low, closer to the nut.
The tuning machines have been replaced with KLUSON DELUXE hardware, but the choice of gold hardware with keystone pegs, closely resembling the KLUSON Single-Line style adopted around 1951, reflects the thoughtful care of an owner who truly loves the J-200.
What do you think?
If you're thinking, "I want a powerful sound!" or "I want a great guitar!", this instrument will fulfill your wishes—we urge you to try it!
Every stroke will undoubtedly bring you the joy of playing and reveal the hidden charm within this instrument.
[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Maple
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Brazilian Rosewood
NECK: Maple/Rosewood/Maple
Nut Width: 42.2mm
SCALE: 644mm
CASE: Non-Original Hard Case
[Condition]
- Fine weather checking across the entire body and signs of use are present, but you can feel the unique character of a vintage instrument.
- The thick grip makes chord playing comfortable, and the well-balanced string height makes this a versatile instrument for various settings.
- 12th fret string height: 6th string side 2.5mm, 1st string side 1.5mm
- Saddle relief: Approximately 2.5mm
- Bridge separation repaired
- Top bracing re-glued
- Pickguard reattached
[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]
[Mail-Order Assurance Service]
For mail-order purchases, since we cannot provide customers with an opportunity to try the instrument, we offer a 6-day trial period after the product arrives.
Please try the product thoroughly at home. If you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price.
*Return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility.
February 25, 2026
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The world's first comprehensive collection of Gibson Vintage J-200 materials now on sale!
『GIBSON KING OF THE FLAT-TOPS』
Preparations underway for the second volume of the collection. "Please lend us your SJ/J-200."
Scheduled for shipment
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If your product malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will provide free service.Warranty periods vary by product.
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We will provide free service for defects arising from normal use within 1 month or 6 months after purchase.
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We perform internal cleaning, appropriate replacement of consumables, and necessary repairs/maintenance upon arrival. If the instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound during normal use, we will provide free service.
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