Explanation
Gibson / 1955 J-45
The Gibson J-45 debuted in 1954 as a round-shoulder model following the J-35.
Although its specifications—including the logo, headstock shape, rosette, and bridge—have evolved over the years, it has consistently remained a top-tier, highly popular model and is still used by many artists today.
—The large pickguard, a signature icon of the J-45
The small tortoiseshell-patterned pickguard (some also featured a fire-stripe pattern), which had been in use since 1954, was replaced during this period with a larger pickguard.
Many people probably think of this pickguard when they hear “J-45.”
—Bridge Plate
A bridge plate, which serves as reinforcement, is glued beneath the bridge inside the body. A subtle specification change is that the size differs between 1955 and the following year, 1956.
*The 1955 model features a slightly narrower bridge plate.
From 1956 until 1960, when adjustable bridges became standard, a common bridge plate was used.
This difference might even affect the resonance of the tone!
In addition to these visible specification changes, there are also hidden modifications to the internal structure depending on the production year.
This instrument features the popular J-45 specifications. While the soundhole has been repaired to address damage and cracks—evidence of its extensive use in
numerous performances—its appearance suggests it has been carefully maintained while producing that uniquely wild Gibson sound in the best possible way.
Please come and experience the authentic tone that can only be found in a guitar like this, one that has been played and repaired over the years.
[Specifications/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Rosewood
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 42.5mm
SCALE: 626mm
CASE: Non-Original Hardshell Case
[Repair & Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
*Please note that as this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection.
- Crack repair (patch reinforcement) on the upper right of the
soundhole (along the pickguard).
- Crack repair (patch reinforcement) on the upper left of the soundhole.
- There is a crack repair (patch reinforcement) at the lower right of the soundhole. - There are two crack repairs (patch reinforcements) on the lower part of the
pickguard.
- There are three crack repairs (patch reinforcements) on the lower right of the top.
- There are two crack repairs (patch reinforcements) on the lower left side of the center of the top.
- There is one crack repair (adhesive) on the left waist of the top.
- A step is visible between the top binding and the side wood (from the right waist down to the bottom), but there are no structural issues.
- A step is visible between the top binding and the side wood (from the left waist down to the bottom), but there are no structural issues.
- There is a crack repair (glued) on the left side of the center of the back.
- There is a crack repair (patch reinforcement) on the lower right side of the back.
- There is a crack reinforcement (glued) on the lower left side of the body back.
- The entire body has been over-lacquered as part of the crack repairs.
- The bridge area has been sanded down.
- A strap pin has been added to the back of the neck heel.
- There is a touch-up on the lower left corner of the headstock top due to paint peeling. - The
neck has been over-lacquered.
[Playability]
- String action at the 12th fret: 2.2 mm on the 6th string side, 1.9 mm
on the 1st string side - Saddle height: approx. 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm
- No muffled tones or buzzing; plays well.
[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]
[Mail-Order Assurance Service]
Since we are unable to offer customers 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. *The customer is responsible for round-trip shipping costs.
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Warranty for Used Products
Please click here for detailed warranty terms.
Electric Guitars / Electric Basses / Effectors / Amplifiers (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 years)
If your instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will provide service free of charge. The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitars (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months)
For defects arising from normal use, we will provide free service for either 1 month or 6 months after purchase.
Wind Instruments (Up to 1 Year)
Upon arrival, we clean the interior of the instrument, replace consumables as needed, and perform any necessary repairs and maintenance. If the instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound during normal use, we will repair it free of charge.
◯ There is no warranty on junk items.