Gibson J-45, 1958

Gibson / 1958 J-45

Based on the Factory Order Number (FON), this is a 1958 model.
You can see "J-45 ADJ BRIDGE" written on the crack prevention strip on the back of the body.

The adjustable bridge specification was introduced as an option in 1956.
In its early days, it featured a unique style with large string-action adjustment knobs on either side of the bridge (as seen on the J160E).
However, the design soon shifted to an adjustable bridge with an aluminum base.
Furthermore, in the late 1950s, the look changed dramatically, shifting to a combination of pure white ceramic saddles and large screws.

1958 was the first year that shipments of the adjustable model exceeded those of the fixed-saddle model, marking a period when the J-45’s standard design was evolving.
The mechanism that allowed for easy string height adjustment without shaving the saddle must have been innovative even at the time.
Whether it’s the invention of the adjustable truss rod or other innovations, Gibson occasionally creates such historic legacies.
It’s deeply moving to consider that this feature not only allows for adjustment but also has a significant impact on the sound—a sound that is integral to the music of artists like Donovan and Takuro Yoshida.
Since this particular instrument uses replacement parts, it features the specifications of the 1960s.

Another distinctive feature of this particular guitar is its finish. The sunburst on the top of the body has faded and aged to a finish resembling a honey sunburst. This is a characteristic of finishes seen around 1960.

While this would seem to contradict the “FON” designation, the key here is the “2” stamped on the back of the headstock. This indicates that it is a “second” instrument, a designation applied when there are cosmetic defects or other issues.

Another point worth noting here is the neck shape.
While necks from around 1958 typically have a thicker profile, this particular instrument has a relatively thin neck shape.
For reference, see the following:

Another 1958 model
Neck thickness near the 1st–2nd frets: 23.3 mm
Neck thickness near the 4th–5th frets: 24.5 mm

Another 1960 model
Neck thickness near the 1st–2nd frets: 20.0 mm
Neck thickness near the 4th–5th frets: 21.0 mm

This particular guitar
Neck thickness near the 1st–2nd frets: 20.6 mm
Neck thickness near the 4th–5th frets: 20.9 mm

Based on this information, it’s likely that this guitar was originally manufactured in 1958, but due to some issue, both the neck and finish were reworked around 1960.
However, there are still traces of red on the body back, which is a characteristic of the Cherry Sunburst finish introduced in 1961, making this quite puzzling.
There are many possibilities to consider, making this a very intriguing instrument.

There are no issues whatsoever with using it as a vintage guitar.
In fact, I think being able to enjoy it along with its history is an advantage.

[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Rosewood
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 42.8mm
SCALE: 628mm
CASE: Non-original hard shell case (Gibson)

[Condition]
- String action at the 12th fret: 2.2 mm on the 6th string side, 1.7 mm on the 1st string side
- The adjustable saddle allows you to set the string action to your preference.
- Crack repairs on the upper-left and lower-left corners of the pickguard (glued and reinforced)
- Saddle, bridge pins, end pin, and bridge plate have been replaced
- A strap pin has been installed on the neck heel
- The end pin area has been modified to accommodate a larger end pin

[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]

[Peace of Mind Mail-Order Service]
Since we cannot offer you the opportunity to try out the instrument when purchasing via mail order, we provide a 6-day trial period after the product arrives.
Please take your time to try out the product at home, and if you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price.
*You are responsible for round-trip shipping costs.