1955 GIBSON ES-140 3/4

Beautiful and rare 1955 Gibson ES-140 3/4, in excellent original and preserved condition.

The ES-140 is one of the most eccentric creations offered by Gibson during the 1950s – the first 3/4-size hollowbody electric model built in Kalamazoo, described in the catalog as being perfect for younger players, or for adults with small fingers. The ES-140 was introduced in 1950 and followed directly on the heels of the ES-175 model, launched the previous year as a mid-range guitar aimed at professionals but with less flash than high-end models like the ES-350 or ES-5. CMI, Gibson’s parent company, presents the instrument as an exact replica, three-quarters the size of the ES-175. It would be wrong to underestimate this small guitar, which indeed boasts all the attributes of a fully professional-quality instrument: a maple body in a beautiful sunburst finish; a one-piece mahogany neck with a Brazilian rosewood fingerboard; a single P-90 pickup, typical of Gibson’s post-war years and which, especially for models from the 1950s, delivers an unmistakable, warm, and immediate tone. This is combined with the instrument’s original wiring, which includes a volume and tone control; it also features the original hardware, including the tailpiece, the adjustable rosewood bridge, and the Kluson Deluxe tuners.

This ES-140, produced in 1955, is one of 244 examples shipped that year and remains in absolutely remarkable condition—only the superb checking hints at the instrument’s age! After going through our workshop for a complete setup, including fret levelling and polishing, action adjustment, and intonation adjustment at the nut and bridge, it is in perfect playable condition with low action and accurate intonation. Note that this is the model with a full-depth body—this differs from the more common ES-140T, which features a thinline body and replaced the ES-140 from 1957 onward.

Sold in its original fitted Lifton hardshell case.