1968 Gibson ES-335: The Last Great Pre-CBS Era ES-335

The Final Chapter of Gibson's Golden Age

The 1968 Gibson ES-335 stands as the final year of what many collectors consider the true "golden era" of Gibson's semi-hollow masterpiece. This vintage represents the last ES-335 guitars built with the traditional long neck tenon and one-piece mahogany neck construction before Gibson made significant changes to their manufacturing processes in 1969. For players and collectors seeking the classic ES-335 tone and construction without the premium price of earlier models, the 1968 ES-335 offers exceptional value.

What makes the 1968 ES-335 particularly significant:

• Last year of the long neck tenon design for enhanced sustain and stability

• Final year before the introduction of the dreaded "volute" neck strengthening addition in 1969

• Features desirable Patent Number humbucker pickups in the transitional period

• Built during the end of Gibson's Kalamazoo manufacturing excellence

• Represents excellent value compared to earlier pre-CBS models

Historical Context: Gibson's Transition Year

By 1968, Gibson was undergoing significant changes that would reshape the company's approach to guitar manufacturing. The Kalamazoo factory was still producing instruments using many of the traditional methods established in the 1950s, but changes were on the horizon that would mark the end of an era.

Several important developments occurred at Gibson during 1968:

• Ted McCarty had left Gibson in 1966, ending his influential tenure as company president

• Production methods were beginning to prioritize efficiency over some traditional construction techniques

• Gibson was preparing for the manufacturing changes that would take effect in 1969

• The company was still using premium materials and time-tested construction methods

• The ES-335 line retained its reputation as a professional-grade instrument favored by touring musicians

Notable artists using ES-335s during this period included Eric Clapton, who famously played ES-335s with Cream, and Chuck Berry, who had made the model his signature guitar. The late 1960s represented the height of rock and blues music, and the ES-335's versatility made it a favorite among players seeking a guitar that could handle both clean jazz tones and overdriven rock sounds.

Current Market Value (2025 Update)

Key Value Factors:

• Originality: All-original examples command significant premiums over modified instruments

• Pickup authenticity: Original Patent Number pickups are highly valued

• Neck condition: Any repairs or modifications significantly impact value

• Finish condition: Sunburst and cherry finishes in good condition are most desirable

• Hardware originality: Original Kluson tuners and Gibson hardware add value

Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium examples, recognizing the true market value of these exceptional instruments.

Detailed Identification Guide

Serial Numbers and Dating

1968 ES-335s typically feature 6-digit serial numbers die-stamped on the back of the headstock without the "Made in USA" stamp. The serial number ranges for 1968 ES-335s generally fall between 500,000-600,000, though Gibson's inconsistent numbering system of this era can create overlap with other years.

Key identification markers for 1968:

• Serial location: Die-stamped on back of headstock

• No "Made in USA" stamp (this appears in later years)

• Orange label inside f-hole with model designation and serial number

• Factory Order Number (FON) may also be present, typically on the neck block

Distinctive Features of 1968

Neck Construction:

• One-piece mahogany neck (three-piece necks began appearing in mid-1969)

• Long neck tenon extending to the neck pickup cavity

• No volute (the neck strengthening feature introduced in 1969)

• Slim taper profile with approximately 1 9/16" nut width

Body Features:

• Larger f-holes distinguish 1968 models from 1967 and earlier

• Semi-hollow construction with solid maple center block

• Pointed cutaway horns (moved away from the "Mickey Mouse ears" of early 1960s)

• Laminated maple top with mahogany back and sides

Electronics:

• Patent Number humbucker pickups with chrome covers and black/white lead wires

• Transitional Patent No. Sticker humbuckers delivering rich, PAF-like tones

• Standard ES-335 wiring with individual volume and tone controls

• Three-way pickup selector switch

Hardware Specifications

Tuners: Kluson double-ring, double-line "tulip" style tuners with white buttons Bridge: Tune-o-matic with nylon saddles Tailpiece: Trapeze tailpiece was standard (stopbar was special order and commands premium) Knobs: Black "witch hat" style knobs Pickguard: Single-layer white plastic with beveled edges Binding: White celluloid binding on body and neck

Detailed Physical Specifications

Weight: Typically 8.0-8.5 pounds Scale Length: 24 3/4 inches Neck Profile: Slim taper, approximately .820" at 1st fret, .920" at 12th fret Nut Width: 1 9/16 inches Fretboard: Rosewood with block position markers (mother-of-pearl) Fretboard Radius: 12 inches Frets: Medium jumbo wire Body Depth: 1 3/4 inches Body Width: 16 inches at lower bout Number of Frets: 22

Pickup Specifications:

• Patent Number humbuckers with chrome covers

• Resistance typically 7.0-8.5k ohms

• Alnico 5 magnets (shorter than PAF-era long magnets)

• Poly-wound (orange) wire in most 1968 examples

• Black and white lead wires

Tonal Characteristics

The 1968 ES-335 delivers the classic semi-hollow sound that made this model legendary. The combination of the solid maple center block and hollow wings creates a unique tonal signature that bridges the gap between solid-body and full hollow-body guitars.

Sound Profile:

• Warm, resonant mid-range with excellent note definition

• Controlled feedback thanks to the center block construction

• Rich harmonic content from the semi-hollow body resonance

• Versatile dynamics responding well to pick attack and playing technique

• Sustain and clarity enhanced by the long neck tenon construction

Pickup Characteristics: The Patent Number pickups found in 1968 ES-335s offer excellent tonal performance, with the pre-T-top versions being particularly prized for their PAF-like characteristics. These pickups typically feature:

• Balanced frequency response with clear highs and warm lows

• Excellent dynamic range suitable for both clean and overdriven tones

• Vintage output levels perfect for tube amplifiers

• Rich harmonic complexity without excessive noise

Comparison to Other Years: The 1968 ES-335 retains much of the tonal character of earlier models while offering improved consistency in manufacturing. Compared to post-1969 models, the 1968 maintains the superior sustain and resonance of the long neck tenon design.

Common Issues & Modifications

When evaluating a 1968 ES-335, collectors and players should be aware of several common issues and modifications that can affect both playability and value:

Typical Problems:

1. Neck repairs: Check for evidence of headstock breaks or neck resets

2. Pickup modifications: Many examples have had pickups changed or covers removed

3. Tailpiece conversions: Some trapeze tailpieces have been converted to stopbars

4. Tuner replacements: Original Klusons are often replaced with modern tuners

5. Fret wear: Most 58-year-old guitars require fret attention

6. Finish checking: Natural aging of nitrocellulose finish

Value-Affecting Modifications:

• Refinishing: Significantly reduces value, even if professionally done

• Non-original pickups: Aftermarket pickups decrease collector value

• Drilled holes: Additional strap button or switch holes impact value

• Neck modifications: Any neck work should be disclosed and affects pricing

• Hardware changes: Non-original bridges, tailpieces, or tuners reduce authenticity

Authenticity Red Flags:

• Volute on neck (indicates 1969 or later)

• "Made in USA" stamp on headstock (post-1977 feature)

• Three-piece neck (typically 1969 and later)

• T-top pickups (usually 1966 and later, but overlap exists)

• Modern-style serial numbers

Why Players and Collectors Value 1968 ES-335s

The 1968 ES-335 occupies a unique position in the vintage guitar market, offering several compelling advantages for both players and collectors:

For Players:

• Classic ES-335 tone without the premium price of earlier models

• Excellent build quality from Gibson's experienced Kalamazoo craftsmen

• Professional-grade instrument suitable for recording and touring

• Versatile sound appropriate for jazz, blues, rock, and pop music

• Comfortable neck profile preferred by many modern players

For Collectors:

• Historical significance as the final year of traditional construction

• Appreciation potential as the vintage guitar market continues to mature

• Relative rarity with lower production numbers than reissue models

• Documentary value representing Gibson's transitional period

• Investment stability with consistent market demand

Investment Considerations: The 1968 ES-335 represents excellent value in the vintage guitar market. These guitars offer most of the desirable features of earlier models at significantly lower prices than 1958-1964 examples. As the vintage guitar market has matured, collectors have increasingly recognized the quality and historical importance of these final "golden era" instruments.

Selling Your 1968 Gibson ES-335

If you own a 1968 ES-335, you're holding a piece of guitar history that represents both excellent musical value and solid investment potential. Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing vintage Gibson instruments and offers several advantages over other selling options:

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars:

• Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops

• Expert Authentication: Our team specializes in vintage Gibson identification and valuation

• Immediate Payment: No waiting periods or consignment fees

• Professional Evaluation: We understand the nuances that affect ES-335 values

• Hassle-Free Process: We handle all logistics, including secure shipping for high-value instruments

Our Comprehensive Service: At Edgewater Guitars, we understand that selling a vintage guitar involves both financial and emotional considerations. Our team of experts can provide:

• Free preliminary evaluation based on photos and description

• Professional in-person appraisal for high-value instruments

• Market analysis showing recent sales of comparable instruments

• Honest assessment of condition factors affecting value

• Immediate cash offers with no obligation to sell

Comparison to Other Selling Options:

• Guitar Shops: Typically offer wholesale pricing (40-50% of retail value)

• Online Auctions: Risky with potential for non-payment or damage

• Consignment: Long wait times with no guarantee of sale

• Private Sales: Time-consuming with safety and payment concerns

• Edgewater Guitars: Fair market pricing with immediate, secure transaction

Ready to get a professional evaluation of your 1968 ES-335? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation assessment.

Related Resources and References

Serial Number and Dating Resources:

• Gibson Serial Number Lookup Guide

• ES-335 Dating and Identification Guide

• Vintage Gibson Potentiometer Dating

Additional Reading:

• Complete ES-335 History and Specifications

• 1968 Gibson Manufacturing Changes

• Patent Number Pickup Identification

Related Edgewater Guides:

• How to Sell Your Vintage Gibson Guitar

• Understanding ES-335 Value Factors

• Gibson Authentication and Verification Services

• Vintage Guitar Market Trends and Analysis

Recent Purchase Example

Customer Success Story: We recently purchased an excellent condition 1968 ES-335 in original cherry finish from a collector in Columbus, Ohio. The guitar featured all-original Patent Number pickups, original case, and even retained its original hang tag from the dealer. After providing a comprehensive evaluation, our offer exceeded the owner's expectations by more than $800 compared to quotes from local music stores.

The seller appreciated our knowledge of the specific features that make 1968 ES-335s valuable, including the long neck tenon construction and transitional pickup specifications. Our streamlined process allowed the transaction to complete within 48 hours, with secure payment and professional packaging for shipping.

"I was amazed at how much more Edgewater offered compared to the local shops. They clearly understood what made my 1968 ES-335 special and valued it accordingly. The process was professional and efficient from start to finish." - Mark S., Columbus, OH

Contact Edgewater Guitars Today

Edgewater Guitars serves vintage guitar owners throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to evaluate high-value instruments like vintage ES-335s and provide secure, professional transactions.

Get Your Free Evaluation:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607

• Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com

• Online: Complete our secure evaluation form

• In-Person: Schedule an appointment at our Ohio location

Don't let your valuable 1968 ES-335 sit unplayed in its case. Contact Edgewater Guitars today to discover its true market value and explore your selling options. With our expertise in vintage Gibson guitars and commitment to fair pricing, we're the premier choice for ES-335 owners throughout the Midwest.

Service Areas: Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Charleston, and surrounding metropolitan areas.

About the Author: The Edgewater Guitars team has over 20 years of experience in vintage guitar authentication, evaluation, and purchasing. Our specialists have handled hundreds of vintage ES-335s and maintain current market knowledge through active participation in the vintage guitar community.