Explanation
Information on Gibson DOVE guitars from their debut year 1962 through 1969 is now available!
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Gibson / 1963 DOVE NATURAL
A first-year Dove in natural finish has arrived, one of only 29 ever shipped.
The Dove followed Gibson's first square-shouldered model, the Hummingbird (1960–), debuting in 1962.
Checking the price guide from that era, while the Hummingbird was $265, the Dove was $360, positioned as the top-tier model among the square-shoulder guitars.
The use of a maple body (similar to the J-200, and I believe using maple bodies on higher-end models is part of Gibson's aesthetic)
The T.O.M. (Tune-O-Matic) bridge and waffle-back tuners symbolize Gibson's higher-end models.
And the pickguard and bridge inlays express the Dove's uniqueness to the fullest.
The fact that such ornamentation derived from the model name was, I believe, innovative in the context of traditional flat-top guitar making (like the D-28 or J-45).
As introduced at the beginning, this 1963 Dove is characterized by its natural finish.
Only Cherry Sunburst models were shipped in 1962; natural finish models began shipping in 1963. Only 29 Dove NTs were shipped that year, making them extremely rare considering how few survive today.
The 1963 Dove not only features the construction typical of Gibson's early 1960s models—a 17-degree headstock angle and a regular neck with a nut width of 42mm to 43mm—but it was also the year the Dove model's design solidified. This included the inclusion of the word "DOVE" on the truss rod cover and the downsizing of the studs on the adjustable saddle.For detailed usage history, please refer to the attached "History of Gibson Dove - The Peace Dove's Contribution to Rock and Folk History" at the beginning of this text.
The combination of square shoulders, a maple body, and T.O.M. (Tone-O-Matic) pickup system produces a sound that is both vibrant and remarkably robust—a durability that makes the DOVE truly unique. I believe the early models, in particular, represent the pinnacle of this design.
[Specs/Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Maple
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Rosewood
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 42.5mm
SCALE: 643mm
CASE: Non-Original Hard Shell Case (Gibson 1970s)
[Condition]
- String height at 12th fret: 3.0mm (6th string side), 2.2mm (1st string side)
- Fine string height adjustment possible via adjustable saddle.
- Nut and bridge pins have been replaced.
- Neck has been over-lacquered.
- Touch-up paint covers a dent on the back of the headstock. This is not a repair for a crack or break.
- There is an output jack mark on the body side.
- There is a crack repair on the lower right of the body top. (Repaired with adhesive only, no reinforcement, but does not affect playability.)
[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]
[Mail Order Assurance Service]
Since we cannot offer trial play during mail order, we provide a 6-day trial period after delivery.
Test the product thoroughly at home. If you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price.
※ Return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility.
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Warranty for Used Products
Detailed warranty terms and conditionsHerePlease see
Electric Guitar/ElectricBass/Effector/Amplifier (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 Years)
If your product malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will provide free service. The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitar (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months)
We will provide free service for any malfunctions occurring during normal use within one month or six months after purchase.
Wind instruments (up to 1 year)
Upon arrival, we perform internal tube cleaning, appropriate replacement of consumables, and necessary repairs and maintenance. Should the instrument malfunction or cease to produce sound during normal use, we will address the issue free of charge.
◯Junk items come with no warranty.