Explanation
An in-depth analysis of a large number of Gibson J-45s from the 1940s to the 1960s. It’s truly the definitive guide to the J-45!
・Delving into the history and full scope of Gibson’s rare colors!!
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Gibson / 1968 J-45 Ebony Black
A rare black-finish version.
When it comes to J-45 colors, sunburst is the standard, and the J-50 was offered as the natural version of the J-45. However, from 1967 to 1969, models featuring special colors such as Ebony Black and Cherry Red were released. The screw-mounted white pickguard is also a distinctive feature.
Due to their limited production runs, these models have become collector’s items today. The black J-45 is also famous as the guitar of choice for Takuro Yoshida and Kazuyoshi Saito. While many reissue models have been released in recent years and have gained popularity, the original is truly in a league of its own.
The presence exuded by these vintage guitars, which have endured for half a century, is truly exceptional. The patina on the finish and parts, the fine weather checking running across the finish, the sun-faded binding…While it doesn’t have that booming sound of the ’40s and ’50s, it’s characterized by a nicely tight and bright tone, along with a percussive sound featuring a rough attack. Its true strength lies in what’s known as a “crisp and snappy” strumming style. The neck grip features a narrow-neck specification with a nut width of approximately 40 mm, a characteristic of the late ’60s.
Additionally, the Downberry bridge and the white pickguard—which is screw-mounted and lacks the Gibson logo—match the specifications of the model commonly known as “No. 1,” which Kazuyoshi Saito has used since shortly after his debut.
As these models have become much harder to find in recent years, we encourage you to take this opportunity to consider purchasing one.
[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Rosewood
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 39.5 mm
SCALE: 629 mm
CASE: Non-Original Hard Shell Case
[Condition]
- There are two crack repairs on the lower center of the body back. Both have been glued and reinforced by our shop, and only the repaired areas have been refinished.
- String action at the 12th fret: 2.5 mm on the 6th string side, 2.0 mm on the 1st string side
- The adjustable saddle allows you to set the string action to your preference.
- There is slight wear on the ball ends of the bridge plate, but this does not affect playability.
- The nut and bridge pins have been replaced.
[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]
[Mail-Order Assurance Service]
Since we cannot offer you the opportunity to try out the instrument before purchasing online, 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.
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Warranty for Used Products
For detailed warranty terms , please visit
Electric Guitars/Electric Bass/Effector/Amplifiers (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 years)
If your instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will repair it free of charge.The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitars (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months)
We will provide free service for defects arising from normal use for 1 or 6 months after purchase.
Wind Instruments (Up to 1 year)
Upon arrival, we clean the interior of the instrument, replace consumables as appropriate, and perform any necessary repairs and maintenance. If the instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound during normal use, we will provide free service.
◯There is no warranty on junk items.