1960 Gibson ES-345: The Stereo Flagship That Defined Innovation

Why the 1960 Gibson ES-345 Matters

The 1960 Gibson ES-345 represents one of the most technologically ambitious guitars ever produced during Gibson's golden era. Introduced in 1959 as Gibson's answer to the growing demand for sophisticated electronics in high-end instruments, the ES-345 bridged the gap between the working musician's ES-335 and the luxurious ES-355, offering stereo output and the innovative Varitone circuitry that gave players unprecedented tonal control.

What makes the 1960 ES-345 particularly significant:

• First full production year after the model's 1959 introduction, with refined specifications

• Built during Gibson's peak manufacturing era in Kalamazoo, Michigan

• Features the coveted PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucking pickups—the same pickups found in legendary Les Paul Standards

• Original stereo wiring and six-position Varitone tone selector

• Stunning figured maple construction with Gibson's premium cherry red finish

• Available with either the sophisticated Bigsby B7 vibrato or traditional stopbar tailpiece

• Represents the height of Gibson's innovation before corporate changes affected production

The 1960 ES-345 embodies the era when Gibson spared no expense in materials or craftsmanship, creating instruments that remain highly sought after by collectors and players more than six decades later.

hentication and understanding of the ES-345's unique features ensures you receive fair market value for your instrument.

Identifying an Authentic 1960 Gibson ES-345

Serial Numbers

1960 Gibson ES-345 guitars typically feature five-digit serial numbers stamped into the back of the headstock, ranging from approximately A 30000 to A 36000. The "A" prefix was introduced in 1960, making identification relatively straightforward. However, Gibson's serial number application was inconsistent, so always verify multiple dating features.

Factory Order Number

The orange Gibson label inside the f-hole contains the FON (Factory Order Number). For 1960 ES-345 models, these typically follow the pattern of a letter prefix followed by four digits. The first letter indicates the specific batch, while the first digit of the numeric sequence often indicates the year (0 for 1960).

Neck Date

The pencil-written date code on the neck heel (visible when neck is removed) provides the most reliable dating method. 1960 necks are marked with month and year notations like "1-60" through "12-60."

Potentiometer Codes

1960 ES-345 guitars used CTS (Chicago Telephone Supply) or Centralab potentiometers. The codes can be decoded:

• CTS pots: 137 (manufacturer code) followed by YYWW (year and week)

• Centralab pots: 134 (manufacturer code) followed by YYWW

• Example: "137 6015" = CTS pot from 15th week of 1960

Critical Note: Potentiometer dates should be consistent with or slightly earlier than the neck date and serial number, as parts were manufactured before assembly.

Key Visual Identifiers

Cherry Red Finish:

• Deep, translucent cherry red nitrocellulose lacquer over figured maple

• Natural aging creates amberish tones with UV exposure

• Multiple thin coats of lacquer create the characteristic "depth" of vintage Gibson finishes

• Finish checking (fine cracks in lacquer) is expected and desirable on original finishes

Bigsby B7 Vibrato:

• Factory-installed Bigsby B7 with Gibson's mounting configuration

• Original installation shows clean mounting with proper spacing

• Bigsby should show appropriate age-related wear patterns

• Serial number may appear on Bigsby unit itself

Body Construction:

• Laminated maple top, back, and sides with solid maple center block

• 16-inch body width with 1-3/4 inch body depth

• Bound top and back with single-ply white binding

• Figured maple visible through cherry finish

Hardware Specifications:

• Gold-plated ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge

• Gold-plated hardware throughout (tuners, tailpiece, pickup covers)

• Six-on-a-side headstock with split-diamond inlay

• Dual-ring "witch hat" knobs (four total: two volume, two tone)

• Six-position Varitone rotary selector mounted between f-holes

• Stereo/mono output selector switch

Pickups:

• Two PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker pickups

• Black plastic pickup covers (some examples feature gold covers)

• "Patent Applied For" stickers often present on pickup bases (may be missing due to age)

• Hand-wound with approximately 7.5k-8.5k ohms resistance

• Alnico magnets with unpolished polepieces

Neck Characteristics:

• Glued-in mahogany neck with 24-3/4 inch scale length

• Bound rosewood fingerboard with pearl block inlays

• Medium C-profile neck shape (fuller than later 1960s necks)

• 1-11/16 inch nut width

• 22-fret configuration

• Gibson "crown" headstock inlay with "Gibson" script logo

Varitone Circuit Identification

The Varitone circuit is one of the ES-345's defining features. The six-position rotary switch engages different capacitors to create distinct tonal variations:

• Position 1: Bypass (no capacitor engaged—straight pickup tone)

• Positions 2-6: Progressive bass roll-off for different tonal colors

• Original Varitone capacitors are paper-in-oil types

• Many have been modified or bypassed—originality affects value significantly

Stereo Wiring

1960 ES-345 guitars feature stereo output capability:

• Special two-conductor (TRS) output jack

• Each pickup routes to separate channels

• Stereo/mono selector switch allows standard mono operation

• Few players used stereo functionality, so many were later converted to standard mono

• Original stereo wiring increases collector value considerably

Detailed Physical Specifications

Dimensions:

• Body Width: 16 inches

• Body Depth: 1-3/4 inches at rim

• Scale Length: 24-3/4 inches

• Nut Width: 1-11/16 inches

• Fingerboard Radius: 12-inch (relatively flat for the era)

• Weight Range: 8.0-9.5 lbs (typical)

Neck Profile:

• Medium C-shape (fuller than 1966+ "slim taper" necks)

• Comfortable for players with various hand sizes

• Shoulder at first fret: approximately .85-.95 inches

• Less pronounced than earlier 1950s "chunky" profiles

Fretboard & Inlays:

• Bound rosewood fingerboard

• Pearl block position markers (large rectangular blocks)

• 22 frets with original narrow/low vintage fret wire

• Many examples have been refretted with modern wire

Pickups:

• Two PAF humbucker pickups

• DC resistance typically 7.5k-8.5k ohms (neck and bridge)

• Alnico II, III, IV, or V magnets (Gibson used various types)

• Purple or black cloth-covered wiring leads

• Unpotted or lightly potted windings

Bridge & Tailpiece:

• Gold-plated ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge

• Bigsby B7 vibrato tailpiece (cherry red models typically shipped with Bigsby)

• Original Bigsby tension bar and spring assembly

• Nylon bridge saddles (original), often replaced with metal

Tuners:

• Single-line Kluson Deluxe tuners with plastic keystone buttons

• Gold-plated finish

• 15:1 gear ratio

• "Single-line" Kluson stamp on tuner back plate

Electronics:

• Four potentiometers: two volume, two tone

• Six-position Varitone rotary selector

• Three-way pickup selector switch

• Stereo/mono output selector switch

• .022µF capacitors (when Varitone bypassed)

• Cloth-covered internal wiring

Case:

• Brown or pink hardshell Lifton case with pink interior lining

• Gibson logo embossed on exterior

• Original case candy may include warranty card, owner's manual, and truss rod wrench

Tonal Characteristics of the 1960 ES-345

The 1960 ES-345 with PAF pickups delivers one of the most revered tones in electric guitar history—a sophisticated, warm, articulate voice that has made these instruments favorites of jazz, blues, and rock players for over six decades.

Core Tone Profile:

The semi-hollowbody construction with solid maple center block creates a unique tonal character:

• Warmth with Clarity: The laminated maple body provides acoustic resonance while the center block controls feedback, creating a warm yet articulate tone

• Sustain: The glued-in neck joint and substantial body mass deliver singing sustain that exceeds fully hollow guitars

• Dynamic Response: PAF pickups respond sensitively to pick attack and playing dynamics

• Natural Compression: The semi-hollow design adds a subtle natural compression that smooths transients

PAF Humbucker Magic:

The original PAF pickups are the heart of the ES-345's legendary tone:

• Hand-wound coils with inconsistent turn counts create unique harmonic complexity

• Unpotted or lightly potted windings allow maximum resonance and harmonic richness

• Alnico magnets provide smooth, musical high-frequency response

• Output level is moderate by modern standards, providing excellent amp interaction

• Humbucking design eliminates 60-cycle hum while preserving tonal clarity

Varitone System:

The six-position Varitone selector fundamentally alters the tonal palette:

• Position 1 (Bypass): Full-range tone with all pickup frequencies present

• Positions 2-6: Progressive high-frequency roll-off creates darker, jazzier tones

• Some positions provide "hollow" or "nasal" tones useful for specific musical contexts

• Many players leave Varitone in Position 1, but having original functionality is valuable

Bigsby Influence:

The Bigsby B7 vibrato affects tone and playability:

• Slightly reduced sustain compared to stopbar versions (vibrato absorbs some string energy)

• Enhanced harmonic complexity from string/spring resonance

• Smooth, musical vibrato response for expressive playing

• Lower string tension behind bridge can affect feel and bending characteristics

Cherry Red Finish Contribution:

While finish is primarily aesthetic, vintage nitrocellulose lacquer contributes to tone:

• Thin, flexible nitro allows wood to resonate more freely than thick modern finishes

• Natural finish checking (micro-cracks) may enhance resonance slightly

• Aged nitro contributes to the overall vintage character

Musical Applications:

The 1960 ES-345 excels in multiple genres:

• Jazz: Warm neck pickup tone with Varitone engaged is classic jazz guitar voice

• Blues: Bridge pickup provides singing sustain and articulate note definition

• Rock: Both pickups engaged deliver thick, creamy rhythm and lead tones

• Studio Recording: Versatile tonal options make ES-345s highly valued session instruments

Notable Recordings:

While the ES-335 saw more widespread use, the ES-345 appeared on numerous recordings throughout the 1960s-1970s. The stereo capability made these instruments particularly attractive for studio work where engineers could process each pickup independently.

Common Issues & Modifications to Watch For

When evaluating a 1960 Gibson ES-345, awareness of common problems and modifications is essential for determining authenticity and value.

Typical Problems

1. Neck Issues:

• Neck angle problems requiring neck resets (common in vintage Gibsons)

• Headstock cracks or repairs (Gibson's angled headstock is vulnerable)

• Truss rod issues or maxed-out truss rods

• Worn or replaced frets (most have been refretted at least once)

2. Finish Deterioration:

• Buckle rash on back from belt buckles

• Finish checking (expected and desirable when original)

• UV fading of cherry red to orange/amber tones

• Lacquer cloudiness or hazing from improper storage

• Refinishing destroys 50-70% of collector value

3. Hardware Wear:

• Gold plating wear on metal parts (common and acceptable)

• Broken or replaced tuners

• Bridge saddles replaced with modern metal types

• Bigsby spring fatigue or mechanism wear

• Incorrect replacement knobs

4. Electronics Modifications:

• Varitone circuit bypassed or removed (very common)

• Stereo wiring converted to mono (extremely common)

• Potentiometers replaced

• Capacitors changed

• Pickup replacements or rewinding

Common Modifications That Affect Value

Pickup Replacements: Replacing original PAF pickups is the single most value-destroying modification. Original PAFs add $8,000-$16,000 to the guitar's value. Never remove original PAF pickups—even if "upgrading" to new pickups, keep the originals and store them safely.

Varitone Removal: Many players found the Varitone circuit unnecessary and bypassed or removed it. While this doesn't affect playability, it significantly reduces collector value. Original, functional Varitone wiring can add 20-30% to value.

Stereo-to-Mono Conversion: Most ES-345 owners converted stereo wiring to standard mono operation. While understandable, maintaining original stereo capability increases collector appeal substantially.

Refrets: Most 1960 ES-345 guitars have been refretted due to wear. Period-correct refrets using vintage-style wire are acceptable, but oversized modern frets can affect playability and value slightly.

Bigsby Additions: Some ES-345s originally shipped with stopbar tailpieces had Bigsby vibratos added later. Aftermarket Bigsby installation creates additional holes in the guitar top and is less desirable than factory installation.

Replaced Tuners: Grovers or other replacement tuners are common. Original Kluson tuners add value and authenticity.

Warning Signs of Refinishes

Refinished guitars lose 50-70% of collector value. Look for:

• Overspray in pickup cavities, control cavity, or f-holes

• Filled holes or blemishes

• Incorrect finish thickness or texture

• Lack of appropriate checking patterns

• Suspiciously perfect finish on 65-year-old guitar

• Paint in screw holes or threaded inserts

• Color inconsistency between body and neck

Authentication Red Flags

Counterfeit Concerns: While outright ES-345 counterfeits are less common than Les Paul fakes, be alert for:

• Incorrect serial number formats or out-of-range numbers

• Modern hardware with artificial aging

• Reproduction PAF pickups with fake stickers

• Inconsistent date codes between components

• Non-period-correct construction details

Parts Guitars: Some "1960 ES-345s" are assembled from parts of various years. Always verify that serial number, FON, neck date, and pot codes are consistent with 1960 production.

Evaluating Condition

When assessing a 1960 ES-345 for purchase or sale:

• Excellent: All original parts, minimal wear, functional electronics, original case

• Very Good: Minor wear, possible refret, original major components, working electronics

• Good: Some replaced parts, finish wear, possible repairs, playable condition

• Fair: Significant modifications, refinish, or major repairs

At Edgewater Guitars, our expert authentication process evaluates all these factors to provide accurate, fair market valuations. We understand that some modifications (like refrets) are necessary maintenance, while others (like pickup replacements) significantly impact value.

Why Players and Collectors Value the 1960 ES-345

The 1960 Gibson ES-345 occupies a unique position in vintage guitar collecting—offering many of the same premium features as six-figure Les Pauls at a fraction of the price.

Playing Characteristics

Versatility: The ES-345 excels across multiple musical styles. The combination of semi-hollow resonance, PAF humbuckers, and Varitone circuitry provides tonal options that few guitars can match. Whether playing jazz, blues, rock, or country, the ES-345 delivers appropriate tones with professional polish.

Comfort: The medium C-profile neck and 16-inch body width create a comfortable playing experience. The guitar balances well on a strap and feels substantial without being heavy. The neck profile accommodates various playing styles and hand sizes.

Feedback Control: Unlike fully hollow guitars, the ES-345's solid center block allows higher volume playing without uncontrollable feedback. This makes the guitar suitable for rock and blues applications while retaining the warmth of semi-hollow construction.

Build Quality: 1960 represents peak Gibson craftsmanship. The attention to detail in construction, finishing, and setup is evident throughout. These guitars were built to professional standards by highly skilled luthiers in Kalamazoo.

Collector Appeal

PAF Pickups: The presence of original PAF humbuckers makes the ES-345 extraordinarily valuable. These legendary pickups are identical to those in $300,000+ Les Paul Standards, yet are available in ES-345s at far lower prices.

Historical Significance: The ES-345 represents Gibson's innovative spirit during its golden era. The Varitone circuitry and stereo output were cutting-edge features that distinguished Gibson from competitors.

Relative Rarity: While production numbers for specific models weren't published, ES-345 production was significantly lower than ES-335 models. The cherry red Bigsby configuration is particularly desirable among collectors.

Pre-Corporate Era: 1960 preceded major corporate changes that affected guitar manufacturing throughout the industry. These instruments represent American craftsmanship at its peak.

Investment Potential

Vintage Gibson semi-hollow guitars have shown steady appreciation:

• ES-345 values have increased 8-12% annually over the past decade

• Original PAF-equipped examples are increasingly scarce

• Baby boomer collectors are competing for the best examples

• Historical significance ensures continued collector interest

• Playability means these instruments remain in active use, not just displayed

Market Outlook: As original PAF-equipped guitars become scarcer and collector awareness increases, ES-345 values are expected to continue rising. Well-documented, all-original examples will command increasing premiums.

Musical Heritage

While the ES-335 gained more widespread visibility, the ES-345's sophisticated features attracted discerning professional players. The stereo capability and Varitone system made these instruments particularly valuable in recording studios where engineers appreciated the tonal flexibility.

The ES-345 represents an era when guitar manufacturers pushed technical boundaries to serve advancing musical styles. This innovative spirit makes the model significant beyond its monetary value.

Selling Your 1960 Gibson ES-345

If you own a 1960 Gibson ES-345, particularly a cherry red example with Bigsby vibrato, you're holding a valuable piece of guitar history. Whether you're downsizing your collection, need liquidity, or simply aren't playing the instrument, Edgewater Guitars offers the most straightforward, professional selling experience in the Midwest.

Why Sell to Edgewater Guitars?

Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for vintage Gibson instruments. Our specialized knowledge of ES-345 specifications, particularly PAF pickup authentication, means we recognize value that general music stores miss. We understand that original PAF pickups alone are worth thousands, and we factor this into our offers.

Expert Authentication: Our team has extensive experience with vintage Gibson semi-hollow guitars. We can verify originality, date components, assess condition accurately, and identify any issues that affect value. This expertise protects both you and us, ensuring fair transactions based on accurate information.

Immediate Cash Offers: No consignment fees, no waiting months for a buyer, no dealing with tire-kickers or lowball offers. Once we evaluate your guitar, we make an immediate cash offer. If you accept, you receive payment the same day.

Zero-Hassle Process: Selling vintage guitars privately involves photography, listing creation, answering endless questions, shipping logistics, and payment risks. Edgewater handles everything. For high-value instruments like ES-345s, we travel to you for in-person evaluation and purchase.

Security and Discretion: We understand the sensitivity of high-value transactions. Our process ensures security, privacy, and professional handling throughout. Many of our clients are referred by previous sellers who appreciated our white-glove service.

How the Process Works

1. Initial Contact: Call us at (440) 219-3607 or submit photos and information through our website. We need:

• Clear photos of the front, back, headstock, and serial number

• Photos of pickup cavities and electronics

• Neck date if accessible

• Potentiometer codes if visible

• Any documentation or provenance information

2. Preliminary Evaluation: We provide an initial valuation range based on the information provided. For ES-345s, we're particularly interested in:

• Pickup originality (PAF verification is essential)

• Varitone and stereo wiring originality

• Finish condition and authenticity

• Bigsby originality and condition

• Overall playability and structural integrity

3. In-Person Appraisal: For valuable instruments like 1960 ES-345s, we typically arrange an in-person evaluation. We serve Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia, and we'll travel to your location for high-value instruments.

4. Immediate Offer: After thorough examination, we make a cash offer based on current market values, condition, and originality. Our offers reflect the true collector market, not the discounted wholesale prices typical of music stores.

5. Same-Day Payment: If you accept our offer, you receive immediate payment. No waiting, no contingencies, no complications.

Comparison to Other Selling Options

Local Guitar Shops: Most music stores lack specialized vintage expertise and must maintain 50-100% profit margins on resale. They'll offer 40-50% of actual market value. Edgewater specializes in vintage instruments and pays accordingly.

Online Marketplaces (Reverb, eBay): While you might achieve strong prices eventually, you'll face:

• 10-15% platform fees

• Shipping risks with valuable instruments

• Time investment in photography, descriptions, and buyer communications

• Payment processing delays

• Potential for returns or disputes

• No guarantee of sale

Consignment: Consignment means waiting months for a sale, paying 20-30% commissions, and hoping the shop markets your guitar effectively. With Edgewater, you receive cash immediately.

Private Sales: Private sales involve significant risk: meeting strangers, accepting payment safely, verifying funds, and potential security concerns with high-value items.

What We're Looking For in ES-345s

We're always interested in ES-345s, but particularly excited about:

• All-original examples with PAF pickups

• Functional Varitone and stereo wiring

• Original cherry red or sunburst finishes

• Factory Bigsby installations

• Complete with original case and documentation

• Clean, unmodified examples

Even if your ES-345 has been modified or shows wear, contact us. We purchase guitars in various conditions and can make fair offers based on remaining original components.

Ready to sell your vintage Gibson ES-345? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation valuation. Call (440) 219-3607 or visit our website to get started.

Related Resources for ES-345 Owners

To help you understand and verify your 1960 Gibson ES-345, we've created comprehensive resources:

• Gibson Serial Number Decoder: Complete serial number reference for all Gibson vintage models

• PAF Pickup Authentication Guide: Learn to identify original PAF pickups versus reproductions

• Gibson Pot Code Dating Reference: Decode potentiometer date codes for accurate guitar dating

• Vintage Gibson Finish Guide: Identify original finishes versus refinishes

• ES-335 Series Comparison: Understand differences between ES-335, ES-345, and ES-355 models

• Sell Your Vintage Gibson: Complete information about our guitar buying service

These free resources provide the detailed technical information needed to authenticate and understand vintage Gibson instruments.

Recent ES-345 Purchase Example

Recently, we acquired a stunning 1960 Gibson ES-345 in cherry red with Bigsby from a collector in Toledo, Ohio. The owner had inherited the guitar from his father, a professional jazz musician who purchased it new in 1960. The guitar retained all original components including both PAF pickups, functional Varitone circuit, and original stereo wiring.

After providing an on-site appraisal, we authenticated the pickups, verified the finish originality, and assessed the overall condition. We made an immediate cash offer that exceeded the owner's expectations by more than $2000 compared to quotes from three local music stores. The owner appreciated our knowledge of ES-345 specifications and our respect for the instrument's history.

The guitar now resides with a serious collector who will preserve this exceptional example of Gibson's golden era craftsmanship.

Contact Edgewater Guitars Today

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 1960 Gibson ES-345s, providing professional, discreet, and secure transactions.

Whether you're ready to sell or simply curious about your ES-345's current value, contact us today:

Phone: (440) 219-3607

Website: www.edgewaterguitars.com

Our team of vintage guitar experts is ready to provide the accurate, fair valuation your instrument deserves. Let us show you why sellers throughout the Midwest choose Edgewater Guitars for their vintage Gibson instruments.

About the Author: Edgewater Guitars has been serving vintage guitar owners throughout the Midwest for years, specializing in Gibson, Fender, and Martin instruments from the golden era of American guitar manufacturing. Our team combines decades of experience in vintage guitar authentication, valuation, and collecting, ensuring every transaction is handled with expertise and integrity.