1957 Gibson Les Paul Custom: The Sophisticated "Fretless Wonder"

Why the 1957 Les Paul Custom Matters

The 1957 Gibson Les Paul Custom represents a fascinating chapter in electric guitar history—the final year of the original "Black Beauty" design before Gibson's dramatic redesign in 1957-58. These instruments showcase Gibson's commitment to luxury and sophistication during the golden era of American guitar manufacturing, featuring the elegant all-mahogany construction that would be replaced by the maple-capped design in late 1957.

What makes 1957 special:

• The last full year of the original all-mahogany Les Paul Custom design

• Transitional period seeing both P-90 pickups and the introduction of PAF humbuckers

• Premium ebony fingerboards with block inlays and gold-plated hardware

• The iconic "Fretless Wonder" low-profile frets for smooth, fast playing

• Hand-crafted during Gibson's peak manufacturing period in Kalamazoo, Michigan

• Represents the bridge between Gibson's P-90 era and the humbucker revolution

Historical Context

1957 was a pivotal year at Gibson's Kalamazoo factory. The company was experiencing tremendous success, and the Les Paul Custom—introduced in 1954—represented their premium offering, priced significantly higher than the Standard model. While Les Paul himself had moved on from endorsing the guitar line, the instruments bearing his name were reaching new heights of craftsmanship.

During 1957, Gibson began one of the most significant transitions in electric guitar history: the introduction of Seth Lover's PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker pickup. Early 1957 Les Paul Customs still featured the traditional P-90 pickups in the middle and neck positions, paired with an Alnico V "staple" pickup at the bridge. However, by mid-to-late 1957, Gibson began installing the revolutionary PAF humbuckers, creating some of the most sought-after transitional instruments.

This was also the year Gibson was planning the dramatic redesign of the Les Paul Custom, which would debut in late 1957 with the addition of a carved maple top (similar to the Les Paul Standard) and three humbucking pickups. The all-mahogany, two-pickup 1957 models represent the swan song of the original Custom design.

Detailed Identification Guide

Serial Numbers

1957 Gibson Les Paul Customs typically feature 5-digit serial numbers stamped into the back of the headstock, ranging approximately from 7 3000 to 7 9000. However, Gibson's serial number system during this period had overlaps and inconsistencies, so serial numbers should always be cross-referenced with other dating features.

Potentiometer Codes

1957 Les Paul Customs used CTS (Chicago Telephone Supply) potentiometers with date codes that can be decoded:

• Format: 137 XXYY (137 = CTS manufacturer code)

• XX: Last two digits of year (56 or 57)

• YY: Week of manufacture

Pots dated late 1956 through 1957 are correct for this year. Remember that potentiometers were typically installed 3-8 weeks after manufacture date.

Key Visual Identifiers for 1957

Pickups:

• Early 1957: Three P-90 pickups (middle and neck) plus staple pickup (bridge)

• Mid-Late 1957: Two or three PAF humbuckers with "Patent Applied For" stickers

• Transitional: Some examples feature mix of P-90s and early PAFs

Headstock & Inlays:

• "Les Paul Custom" silkscreen logo on truss rod cover

• Crown inlay at headstock peak

• "Gibson" logo in pearl script

• Ebony fingerboard with pearloid block inlays

Fingerboard:

• Bound ebony fingerboard

• Original narrow, low "Fretless Wonder" frets

• Split-diamond inlay at 12th fret

Hardware Specifications:

• All gold-plated hardware

• ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge

• Stopbar tailpiece (early) or harp tailpiece (later 1957)

• Single-line Kluson Deluxe tuners with tulip-shaped buttons

• Black plastic pickup rings and switch tip

Body Construction:

• All-mahogany construction (no maple cap in early 1957)

• Multi-ply white binding on top and back

• Black nitrocellulose lacquer finish

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body & Construction:

• Body Wood: Solid mahogany (typically 2-piece bookmatched)

• Weight Range: 9.0-10.5 lbs (typically heavier than maple-topped models)

• Finish: Black nitrocellulose lacquer over natural mahogany

• Binding: 7-ply white binding on body top and back

Neck Specifications:

• Neck Profile: Medium-thick rounded profile (varies by individual instrument)

• Nut Width: 1-11/16 inches

• Scale Length: 24.75 inches

• Fingerboard: Ebony with pearloid block inlays

• Fret Wire: Low, narrow "Fretless Wonder" frets

• Fingerboard Radius: Approximately 12 inches

Pickup Specifications (PAF-equipped models):

• Pickup Type: PAF humbuckers (Patent Applied For)

• Resistance: Typically 7.5k-8.5k ohms (varied considerably)

• Wire: Enamel-coated 42AWG wire

• Magnets: Alnico II, III, IV, or V (varied during this period)

• Construction: Unpotted, hand-wound with mismatched coils

Electronics:

• Two volume controls, two tone controls

• 3-way toggle switch

• 500k ohm CTS potentiometers

• Bumblebee capacitors (.022 µF)

• Cloth-covered wiring

Case:

• Brown hardshell case with pink plush interior

• Gibson logo on exterior

• Interior label with model information

Tonal Characteristics

The 1957 Les Paul Custom offers distinctly different tonal characteristics depending on pickup configuration:

All-Mahogany Construction: The lack of a maple cap gives 1957 Customs a warmer, woodier tone compared to Les Paul Standards. The all-mahogany body produces:

• Enhanced midrange warmth and vocal quality

• Slightly compressed attack compared to maple-capped models

• Rich, thick fundamental tones ideal for jazz and blues

• Less "top-end sparkle" than Standard models, but with more body and depth

P-90 Configuration: Early 1957 models with P-90 pickups deliver:

• Classic single-coil clarity with substantial output

• Aggressive midrange bite perfect for rock and blues

• Excellent articulation and note separation

• The famous P-90 "bark" when pushed hard

PAF Configuration: Late 1957 models with PAF humbuckers provide:

• Smooth, singing sustain with reduced noise

• Balanced frequency response across the tonal spectrum

• The iconic "woman tone" when rolled back

• Exceptional harmonic complexity from unpotted coils

• Perfect for everything from jazz to hard rock

The "Fretless Wonder" Factor: The low-profile frets contribute to:

• Incredibly smooth, fast playing feel

• Enhanced sustain from increased string-to-fingerboard contact

• Slightly mellower attack compared to taller frets

• Ideal for players with a lighter touch

Common Issues & Modifications

When evaluating a 1957 Les Paul Custom, watch for:

1. Refinishes: The black nitrocellulose finish is particularly prone to wear and checking. Look for:

• Overspray in cavities, pickup routes, or under hardware

• Inconsistent checking patterns

• Fill marks where binding meets body

• Unnatural shine or thickness to the finish

• Color inconsistency (original black may have slight brown or green undertones)

2. Fret Replacement: The original "Fretless Wonder" frets are extremely low and narrow. Many vintage Customs have been refretted with:

• Taller, wider modern fretwire

• Excessive fingerboard sanding that can affect playability

• Binding damage from fret removal

• Original low frets are extremely desirable to collectors

3. Pickup Modifications: Many P-90-equipped 1957 Customs have been:

• Converted to humbuckers (requiring routing that destroys value)

• Fitted with replacement P-90s

• Had pickup rings replaced or modified

• Original P-90 configuration with correct pickups commands premium pricing

4. Hardware Replacement: Common non-original parts include:

• Grover tuners replacing original Klusons

• Modern bridge and tailpiece

• Replacement control knobs or switch tips

• Aftermarket pickguards (many Customs had pickguards added later)

5. Structural Issues:

• Headstock breaks or repairs (check for finish discontinuity)

• Neck resets or angle modifications

• Pot metal deterioration on bridge and tailpiece

• Binding shrinkage or separation

6. Electronics:

• Replacement potentiometers (check date codes)

• Modern wiring or capacitors

• Shielding paint added in cavities

• Pickup selector switch replacements

Why Players & Collectors Value 1957 Les Paul Customs

Playing Characteristics:

• The "Fretless Wonder" frets create an incredibly smooth, fast playing surface ideal for jazz, blues, and sophisticated playing styles

• The all-mahogany construction delivers warm, vocal tones perfect for expressive playing

• The substantial weight and mass contribute to rich sustain and resonance

• The medium-thick neck profile provides a solid, confident feel

Collector Appeal:

• Represents the final year of the original all-mahogany Custom design

• Transitional pickup configurations create fascinating variations

• Much rarer than Les Paul Standards from the same era

• Historical significance as Gibson's premium offering during the golden era

• Beautiful aesthetic with gold hardware and elegant appointments

Investment Potential:

• Values have steadily appreciated as collectors recognize their importance

• PAF-equipped examples are particularly strong investments

• All-original examples are becoming increasingly scarce

• Connection to Gibson's peak manufacturing period ensures long-term collectability

Historical Significance:

• Bridge between the P-90 era and the humbucker revolution

• Represents Gibson's commitment to luxury and craftsmanship

• Used by notable jazz and blues players who valued the smooth frets and warm tones

• Part of the legendary Kalamazoo-era production that defined American electric guitars

Selling Your 1957 Gibson Les Paul Custom

If you own a 1957 Les Paul Custom, you possess a significant piece of electric guitar history. At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in evaluating and purchasing premium vintage Gibson instruments, and we understand what makes these guitars special.

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars:

• Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops because we understand the specific value factors of vintage Gibsons

• Expert Authentication: Our team can identify original vs. replacement parts, verify dating, and assess condition accurately

• Immediate Cash Offers: No consignment periods or waiting—we provide fast, fair offers and immediate payment

• Specialized Knowledge: We understand the difference between P-90 and PAF configurations, original fret wire, and all the details that affect value

• White-Glove Service: For high-value instruments like 1957 Les Paul Customs, we travel to you for in-person evaluation

• Transparent Process: We explain our valuation methodology and provide detailed assessments

The Edgewater Advantage vs. Other Options:

• Compared to Local Guitar Shops: Most local shops lack specialized vintage expertise and need to maintain large resale margins. We focus on buying quality instruments at fair market value.

• Compared to Online Marketplaces: Selling privately requires extensive photography, fielding inquiries from unqualified buyers, shipping risks, and potential scams. We handle everything.

• Compared to Auction Houses: Auction fees can reach 20-25% of sale price, and there's no guarantee of sale. We provide immediate cash offers.

Ready to sell your 1957 Les Paul Custom? Get your free valuation or call us directly at (440) 219-3607.

Related Resources

Our free educational resources can help you learn more about your vintage Gibson:

• Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool

• Complete Guide to Dating Gibson Les Pauls

• How to Identify PAF Pickups

• Gibson Potentiometer Code Dating Guide

• Spotting Refinished Gibson Les Pauls

• 1958 Gibson Les Paul Custom Guide (next year's design)

• 1956 Gibson Les Paul Custom Guide (previous year)

• Sell Your Vintage Gibson (main selling page)

Recently Purchased: 1957 Les Paul Custom

We recently acquired an all-original 1957 Gibson Les Paul Custom in P-90 configuration from a collector in Columbus, Ohio. The instrument featured completely original black finish with beautiful natural checking, all original hardware and electronics, and the correct brown hardshell case.

After providing a detailed in-person appraisal and authentication, we made an immediate cash offer that exceeded the seller's expectations by more than $7,500 compared to quotes from local music shops. The seller appreciated our expertise in identifying the original features and our transparent valuation process.

This is exactly the type of vintage Gibson we're actively seeking throughout our service area.

Edgewater Guitars: Your Vintage Gibson Experts

Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to you for high-value instruments like 1957 Gibson Les Paul Customs, providing expert authentication, fair market valuations, and immediate payment.

Whether you're downsizing your collection, inherited a vintage guitar, or simply ready to sell, we make the process straightforward and rewarding.

Contact Edgewater Guitars today:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607

• Get Your Free Valuation

• Service Area: Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, West Virginia

Written by the team at Edgewater Guitars. With decades of combined experience in vintage guitar authentication, valuation, and sales, we've helped hundreds of guitar owners throughout the Midwest get fair value for their instruments. Our expertise in Gibson's golden era guitars—particularly Les Pauls from the 1950s—ensures accurate identification and premium valuations.