Gibson ES-125: Complete Guide to the Affordable Archtop (ES-125, ES-125T, ES-125TD, ES-125TDC)

What is a Gibson ES-125 Guitar?

The Gibson ES-125 is a thinline archtop electric guitar that served as Gibson's entry-level electric archtop from 1941 through 1970. While positioned as an affordable alternative to Gibson's premium models like the ES-175 and L-5, the ES-125 series became legendary in its own right, beloved by blues, jazz, and rock players for its warm tone and comfortable playability.

Quick Identification: Gibson ES-125 guitars feature a single-cutaway (or double-cutaway on later models) thinline archtop body, laminated maple construction, single P-90 pickup (ES-125) or two pickups (ES-125T), sunburst or natural finish, and simplified appointments compared to higher-end Gibson archtops. The various model designations—ES-125, ES-125T, ES-125TD, and ES-125TDC—indicate different configurations produced over the model's 30-year history.

If you're trying to identify your ES-125: Understanding which variant you have and from what year is essential for proper authentication and evaluation. This guide will help you identify your specific model and year.

Understanding the ES-125 Model Variations

ES-125 (Standard Single-Pickup Model)

Production Years: 1941-1942, 1946-1970

The original ES-125 featured a single P-90 pickup in the neck position, making it Gibson's most affordable electric archtop. This configuration remained available throughout the model's production run.

Key Features:

• Single P-90 pickup (neck position)

• Single-cutaway body (most years)

• Simplified trapeze tailpiece

• Dot inlays (early) or parallelogram inlays (later)

• Sunburst finish standard

• Laminated maple construction

Common Years to Identify:

• 1941-1942: Pre-war production, extremely rare

• 1946-1949: Post-war restart, single cutaway

• 1950s: Peak production, various cosmetic changes

• 1960s: Continued production with modernized features

• 1970: Final year of production

ES-125T (Two-Pickup Model)

Production Years: 1956-1968

The "T" designation indicated "Two pickups," with dual P-90s providing more tonal versatility than the single-pickup model.

Key Features:

• Two P-90 pickups

• Single-cutaway body

• Four-knob control layout (two volumes, two tones)

• Parallelogram inlays standard

• Sunburst or natural finish options

• Same laminated maple construction

Why It Matters: The ES-125T offered players the tonal flexibility of neck and bridge pickup selection at a lower price point than the ES-175 or ES-335 models. Many blues and jazz players preferred the ES-125T for its warmer, less aggressive tone compared to solid-body guitars.

ES-125TD (Thinline Double-Cutaway)

Production Years: 1957-1963

The "TD" stood for "Thinline Double-cutaway," representing Gibson's response to modernizing player preferences for better upper fret access.

Key Features:

• Double-cutaway body design (sharp Florentine cutaways)

• Two P-90 pickups

• Thinline depth (approximately 1 5/8" at rim)

• Four-knob control layout

• Parallelogram inlays

• Sunburst or natural finish

• Improved upper fret access

Historical Context: The double-cutaway ES-125TD was introduced during Gibson's exploration of modern designs in the late 1950s. While less common than the single-cutaway models, the TD variant is highly sought by players who value upper fret accessibility.

ES-125TDC (Three-Quarter Size Double-Cutaway)

Production Years: 1960-1968

The "TDC" indicated "Three-quarter Double-Cutaway," a smaller-bodied version designed for players who wanted a more compact instrument.

Key Features:

• Smaller three-quarter size body

• Double-cutaway design

• Single P-90 pickup (typically)

• Shorter scale length

• Dot inlays

• Sunburst finish standard

• Marketed toward students and smaller players

Target Market: Gibson marketed the ES-125TDC as a student model and for players with smaller frames. Despite its intended entry-level positioning, these guitars have developed their own collector following due to their unique size and playability.

Complete Year-by-Year Identification Guide

1941-1942 ES-125 (Pre-War Production)

Serial Numbers: Check Gibson's pre-war serial number system Rarity: Extremely rare due to limited production before WWII halted civilian guitar manufacturing

Distinctive Features:

• Bound f-holes

• Dot inlays

• Single-bound body

• Natural or sunburst finish

• Single P-90 pickup

• Trapeze tailpiece

• Wartime material restrictions not yet in effect

Authentication Challenges: Pre-war ES-125s are so rare that any claimed example requires expert authentication. Many later models are sometimes misidentified as pre-war guitars.

1946-1949 ES-125 (Post-War Early Production)

Serial Numbers: Approximately A-prefix numbers (use our Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool)

Post-War Features:

• Production resumed after WWII

• Single-cutaway body reintroduced

• Single P-90 pickup in neck position

• Dot inlays standard

• Simplified appointments to keep costs down

• Trapeze tailpiece

• Sunburst finish standard

Identifying 1946-1949 Models:

• Check for single-bound body (no elaborate binding)

• Dot position markers

• Single P-90 with simple mounting

• Post-war construction methods visible

• Serial numbers in early A-prefix range

1950-1955 ES-125

Serial Numbers: A-prefix continuing (check serial number guide)

Evolution in the Early 1950s:

• 1950-1952: Continued dot inlay production

• 1953-1955: Transition to parallelogram inlays begins

• Single-cutaway body remains standard

• P-90 pickup in neck position

• Trapeze tailpiece standard

• Some cosmetic refinements

1954-1955 Specific Changes:

• Parallelogram inlays become more common

• Tuner upgrades (Kluson Deluxe more standard)

• Slight body shape refinements

• Finish quality improvements

How to Date 1950-1955 Models:

• Check inlay pattern (dots = earlier, parallelograms = later)

• Examine serial number and cross-reference

• Look for Factory Order Number (FON) inside body

• Check tuner styles and hardware

1956-1959 ES-125 and ES-125T

Serial Numbers: A-prefix transitioning to no prefix in 1961 (see Gibson dating guide)

Major Development: 1956: ES-125T introduced with two P-90 pickups

1956-1959 Standard ES-125 Features:

• Single P-90 in neck position

• Parallelogram inlays standard

• Single-cutaway body

• Trapeze tailpiece

• Sunburst finish standard, natural available

• Laminated maple back and sides

1956-1959 ES-125T Features:

• Two P-90 pickups (neck and bridge)

• Four-knob control layout

• Three-way toggle switch

• Parallelogram inlays

• Single-cutaway body

• More tonal versatility than single-pickup model

Identifying Late 1950s Models:

• Check pickup configuration (one vs. two pickups)

• Examine control layout

• Verify parallelogram inlays present

• Check serial number format and range

1957-1963 ES-125TD (Double-Cutaway)

Serial Numbers: Late A-prefix through early 1960s system

ES-125TD Distinctive Features:

• Double Florentine (sharp) cutaways

• Two P-90 pickups standard

• Thinline body depth

• Four-knob controls

• Parallelogram inlays

• Enhanced upper fret access (22 frets accessible)

• Sunburst or natural finish

Year-Specific Details:

1957-1958:

• Introduction of double-cutaway design

• Sharp Florentine cutaways

• Early production examples highly collectible

• Some transitional features

1959-1960:

• Refinement of double-cutaway design

• Consistent hardware and appointments

• Peak of thinline archtop popularity

1961-1963:

• Later production examples

• Some minor specification changes

• Natural finish becomes more common

• Cherry finish offered on some examples

How to Date ES-125TD Models:

• Body style confirms TD designation

• Serial number provides year range (use lookup tool)

• Check hardware for year-specific features

• Examine finish options and colors

1960-1968 ES-125TDC (Three-Quarter Size)

Serial Numbers: 1960s Gibson numbering system

ES-125TDC Specific Features:

• Smaller three-quarter size body

• Double-cutaway design

• Single P-90 pickup (most common)

• Shorter scale length (approximately 23.5")

• Dot inlays

• Simplified appointments

• Sunburst finish standard

Target Buyers:

• Students and beginners

• Players preferring smaller instruments

• Jazz players wanting compact archtop

• Women and younger players (original marketing)

Dating 1960s TDC Models:

• Three-quarter body size immediate identifier

• Serial numbers place in 1960s

• Simplified hardware confirms entry-level positioning

• Check scale length (shorter than standard ES-125)

1960-1970 ES-125 and ES-125T (Final Years)

Serial Numbers: 1960s six-digit system (consult serial number database)

Late Production Features:

1960-1965:

• Continuation of single and dual-pickup models

• Single-cutaway body remains available

• Some finish options expand

• Hardware modernization continues

1966-1970:

• Final years of production

• Some cost-cutting measures appear

• Cherry finish more common

• Slight construction changes

1970 Final Year:

• ES-125 production ends

• Later examples sometimes have simplified features

• End of an era for Gibson's entry-level archtop

Changes During Final Decade:

• 1961: Serial number system changes

• 1965: Some specification updates

• 1968: ES-125TDC discontinued

• 1970: All ES-125 production ends

Serial Number Dating for ES-125 Guitars

How to Find Your ES-125 Serial Number

Serial Number Location: Gibson ES-125 guitars have serial numbers in different locations depending on production era:

1947-1960s:

• Stamped inside body

• Visible through f-hole

• Located on neck block or back brace

• Sometimes difficult to read without mirror and flashlight

1960s-1970:

• Continued inside stamping

• Six-digit numbers become standard

• May require removal of pickups to see clearly

Using Our Serial Number Lookup Tool

For accurate dating of your ES-125, use our comprehensive Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool. This tool helps you:

• Identify production year from serial number

• Cross-reference with model specifications

• Understand Gibson's numbering systems across eras

• Verify authenticity of claimed year

Steps to Use the Tool:

1. Locate serial number inside your guitar

2. Enter number into lookup tool

3. Review results showing likely production year

4. Cross-reference with physical features described in this guide

5. Verify model variant matches year specifications

Factory Order Numbers (FON)

In addition to serial numbers, Gibson used Factory Order Numbers (FON) stamped inside the body. These can provide more specific dating information:

FON Format and Location:

• Stamped on neck block or back brace

• Letter-number combination

• More reliable for precise dating than serial numbers

• Requires internal inspection

How FON Helps:

• Confirms production batch

• Can narrow dating to specific months

• Helps verify originality when cross-referenced with serial

• Essential for pre-1960s models

Physical Specifications by Model

Standard ES-125 Specifications

ES-125T Specifications (Two-Pickup Model)

ES-125TD Specifications (Double-Cutaway)

ES-125TDC Specifications (Three-Quarter Size)

Tonal Characteristics of ES-125 Models

The Classic ES-125 Sound

Single P-90 ES-125:

• Warm, woody tone from laminated maple construction

• P-90 in neck position produces mellow, jazz-friendly voice

• Less aggressive than bridge-position pickups

• Rounded treble without harshness

• Full midrange presence

• Subdued bass response

• Excellent for rhythm playing and chord melody

Two-Pickup ES-125T:

• Versatile tonal palette from dual P-90s

• Neck pickup: warm jazz tones

• Bridge pickup: brighter, more cutting voice

• Middle position: balanced, slightly scooped tone

• Suitable for blues, jazz, and early rock styles

• More output and aggression than single-pickup model

ES-125TD Double-Cutaway:

• Similar tonal characteristics to ES-125T

• Thinline construction slightly brighter than full-depth

• Enhanced sustain from body design

• Midrange clarity excellent for lead playing

• Acoustic resonance slightly different from full-depth models

Why ES-125s Sound Different from ES-175s

Many players wonder about the tonal difference between the ES-125 and the higher-end ES-175:

ES-125 Characteristics:

• Laminated maple (plywood) construction

• Warmer, less resonant than carved top guitars

• More controlled feedback (advantage in loud situations)

• Slightly compressed dynamic range

• More forgiving for beginners

ES-175 Characteristics:

• Carved spruce top (solid wood)

• More acoustic resonance and projection

• Greater dynamic range and touch sensitivity

• More prone to feedback at high volumes

• Brighter, more complex overtones

Player Preference: Many professional players actually prefer the ES-125's controlled tone and feedback resistance for certain applications, particularly blues and amplified jazz settings.

Common Modifications and Issues

Typical Modifications Found on ES-125 Guitars

Pickup Replacements:

• Original P-90s often replaced with humbuckers

• Some players add neck pickups to single-pickup models

• Aftermarket P-90 replacements common

• Original P-90s significantly enhance authenticity

Hardware Upgrades:

• Tailpiece replacements (trapeze to stop tail or Bigsby)

• Tuner upgrades (Grover or modern replacements)

• Bridge modifications for better intonation

• Nut replacements (bone, brass, or synthetic)

Finish and Cosmetic Changes:

• Refinishing common (sunburst to natural or solid colors)

• Binding repairs or replacements

• Pickguard changes or additions

• Headstock logo restoration

Condition Issues to Check

Structural Concerns:

• Neck angle and reset needs (common on older archtops)

• Top cracks or separation

• Binding deterioration (celluloid shrinks and cracks)

• Loose bracing inside body

• Headstock cracks or repairs

• Fretboard separation

Electrical Issues:

• Deteriorated wiring and capacitors

• Oxidized potentiometers (scratchy controls)

• Output jack problems

• Pickup magnets weakened with age

• Corroded solder joints

Cosmetic Wear:

• Finish checking and crazing (normal aging)

• Buckle rash on back

• Arm wear through finish

• Fret wear requiring leveling or replacement

• Missing or replaced knobs and hardware

Modifications That Affect Collectibility

Value-Preserving Modifications:

• Professional refret with period-appropriate wire

• Nut replacement with proper materials

• Electronic component replacement (caps, pots) with correct values

• Reversible hardware upgrades

Value-Reducing Modifications:

• Refinishing (even professional refinish reduces value)

• Route modifications for humbuckers

• Headstock repairs

• Replaced neck (severe value impact)

• Non-reversible hardware changes

Why ES-125 Guitars Are Valued

Historical Significance

Entry Point for Legendary Players: Many famous guitarists started on ES-125 guitars before moving to more expensive models:

• Affordable price made electric archtops accessible

• Learning instruments for countless jazz and blues players

• Gigging guitars for working musicians

• Some professionals continued using ES-125s by choice

Working Musician's Guitar: The ES-125 represented Gibson's commitment to providing quality instruments at accessible prices:

• Professional construction quality

• Genuine Gibson tone and playability

• Durable enough for constant gigging

• Serviceable and repairable

Player Appeal Today

Modern Players Choose ES-125s Because:

• Affordable entry into vintage Gibson archtops

• Excellent tone for blues, jazz, and roots music

• Comfortable playability and neck profiles

• Lighter weight than many solid-body guitars

• Vintage mojo and aesthetic appeal

• Less feedback-prone than carved-top archtops

Genre Suitability:

• Jazz: Warm neck pickup tone perfect for chord melody

• Blues: Gritty P-90 character cuts through mix

• Rockabilly: Vintage tone with modern playability

• Indie/Alternative: Cool factor and unique voice

• Recording: Controlled feedback, excellent mic response

Collectibility Factors

What Makes ES-125s Collectible:

• 30-year production run creates variety

• Different models suit different collectors

• 1950s examples increasingly sought

• Double-cutaway TD models have strong following

• All-original examples becoming scarcer

• Historical connection to Gibson's heritage

Collector Interest by Model:

• Pre-war (1941-1942): Extremely rare, museum pieces

• 1940s Post-war: Early electric archtops, collectible

• 1950s Single-cutaway: Peak vintage appeal

• ES-125TD: Modern design, player favorite

• ES-125TDC: Niche collector interest

Condition Impact:

• All-original examples command premiums

• Player-grade guitars accessible to working musicians

• Refinished examples lose significant collectibility

• Structural soundness more important than cosmetic perfection

Selling Your Gibson ES-125

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars

At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in evaluating and purchasing vintage Gibson guitars, including all ES-125 variants from every production year.

Our ES-125 Expertise:

• Deep knowledge of all model variants (125, 125T, 125TD, 125TDC)

• Understanding of year-specific features across 30-year production

• Experience with authentication and dating

• Recognition of appropriate modifications vs. value-reducing changes

• Familiarity with condition issues specific to laminated archtops

Our Value Proposition:

• Premium Purchase Offers: We consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops

• Expert Authentication: Free evaluation of model variant, year, and originality

• Immediate Cash Payment: No consignment delays or uncertain waiting

• Fair Assessment: We understand the difference between player-grade and collector-grade

• Honest Evaluation: Clear communication about condition issues and their impact

Why Edgewater vs. Other Options

Compared to Local Guitar Shops:

• Most shops undervalue ES-125s as "student guitars" despite collectibility

• Retail margin requirements force low wholesale offers

• Limited expertise in year-specific ES-125 variations

• We recognize premium early examples and rare variants

• Immediate cash vs. months of consignment

Compared to Online Marketplaces:

• No listing fees, final value fees, or payment processing charges (15-20% total)

• Eliminate shipping risks for vintage archtop guitars

• No dealing with buyers who don't understand vintage specifications

• Professional evaluation prevents undervaluing rare features

• Avoid fraud, scams, and payment disputes

• Private transaction if discretion matters

Compared to Auction Houses:

• No seller's commission (typically 15-25%)

• Immediate payment instead of 60-90 day wait

• Personal service vs. catalog listing

• No reserve price uncertainties

• Direct negotiation

Contact Information:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607

• Request Free Evaluation: [Contact Form]

• Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com

Geographic Service Area:

• Ohio

• Michigan

• Pennsylvania

• Indiana

• West Virginia

For significant instruments (pre-1950s ES-125, rare ES-125TD models, all-original examples), we provide in-person evaluation at your location.

Authentication and Dating Resources

Free Identification Tools from Edgewater

Comprehensive Gibson Resources:

• Complete Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool

• Gibson Factory Order Number (FON) Guide

• Gibson Potentiometer Date Code Decoder

• Gibson Archtop Identification Guide

Related Model Guides:

• Gibson ES-175 Complete Guide

• Gibson ES-335 Identification

• Gibson L-5 Authentication

• Gibson ES-150 History and Dating

Physical Verification Checklist

When authenticating and dating your ES-125, systematically verify:

Model Identification:

• [ ] Count pickups (one = ES-125, two = ES-125T or TD)

• [ ] Check cutaway style (single = ES-125/125T, double = ES-125TD/TDC)

• [ ] Measure body size (three-quarter = ES-125TDC)

• [ ] Verify body depth (full depth or thinline)

• [ ] Confirm "ES-125" label inside guitar

Year Dating:

• [ ] Locate serial number inside body (use lookup tool)

• [ ] Find Factory Order Number if present

• [ ] Check inlay pattern (dots = earlier, parallelograms = later)

• [ ] Examine hardware styles and tuner brands

• [ ] Verify pickup type and mounting style

• [ ] Check tailpiece design

Originality Assessment:

• [ ] Examine finish for refinishing evidence

• [ ] Check all hardware for replacements

• [ ] Verify pickup originality (P-90s vs. replacements)

• [ ] Inspect wiring and electronics for modifications

• [ ] Look for additional routing or holes

• [ ] Check neck for repairs or replacement

Condition Evaluation:

• [ ] Assess neck angle and playability

• [ ] Check for cracks in top, back, or sides

• [ ] Examine binding condition

• [ ] Verify fret condition

• [ ] Test all electronics

• [ ] Document any repairs or issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the difference between ES-125, ES-125T, ES-125TD, and ES-125TDC?

A: The ES-125 is the single-pickup model with one P-90 in the neck position. The ES-125T has two pickups ("T" = Two). The ES-125TD is a thinline double-cutaway version with two pickups ("TD" = Thinline Double-cutaway). The ES-125TDC is a smaller three-quarter size double-cutaway model ("TDC" = Three-quarter Double-Cutaway), typically with one pickup. All share similar construction but differ in configuration and size.

Q: How do I find the serial number on my ES-125?

A: Gibson ES-125 serial numbers are stamped inside the body, visible through the f-holes. You'll need a flashlight and possibly a small mirror to see the number stamped on the neck block or back brace. Use our Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool to determine the production year once you locate the number.

Q: What years is my ES-125 from based on its features?

A: Key identifiers include: Dot inlays typically indicate pre-1953 models, parallelogram inlays suggest 1953 and later. Single-cutaway with one pickup is standard ES-125 (1941-1970). Single-cutaway with two pickups is ES-125T (1956-1968). Double-cutaway is ES-125TD (1957-1963) or ES-125TDC (1960-1968). Use the serial number combined with these features for accurate dating.

Q: Is my ES-125 worth restoring or should I sell it as-is?

A: This depends on the guitar's condition, originality, and your goals. If it's mostly original with minor issues, professional setup and light restoration may be worthwhile. Major repairs (neck reset, refinishing, extensive work) often cost more than the resulting increase in value for ES-125 models. Consult with a vintage guitar expert before authorizing expensive work. Many buyers prefer all-original condition even with wear rather than restored instruments.

Q: Are ES-125 guitars valuable or just student guitars?

A: While ES-125s were Gibson's entry-level electric archtops, they're far from "just student guitars." Early examples (1940s-1950s), rare variants (ES-125TD), and all-original specimens are genuinely collectible. Even later player-grade examples have real value to working musicians who appreciate their tone and playability. The designation as "entry-level" reflects original pricing, not quality or collectibility.

Q: What pickups came in ES-125 guitars?

A: All ES-125 variants came equipped with Gibson P-90 single-coil pickups. The standard ES-125 had one P-90 in the neck position. The ES-125T and ES-125TD had two P-90s (neck and bridge). Many ES-125s have had pickups replaced over the years, so finding one with original P-90s significantly enhances authenticity and value.

Q: How can I tell if my ES-125 has been refinished?

A: Check inside the f-holes for overspray or finish where it shouldn't be. Remove pickups to examine the wood underneath—original finish shows lighter color if aged. Look for finish in screw holes (indicates refinish). Original sunburst finishes show natural checking and wear patterns. Check the neck heel and binding for evidence of stripping or respraying. UV light can reveal some refinishes. Professional appraisal recommended for valuable examples.

Q: What's better, an ES-125 or an ES-175?

A: They serve different purposes. The ES-175 has a carved spruce top (more resonant, complex tone, higher-end) while the ES-125 has laminated construction (warmer, more feedback-resistant, more affordable). For loud blues or rock settings, many players prefer the ES-125's controlled feedback. For acoustic jazz or nuanced playing, the ES-175's carved top offers more dynamic range. Both are legitimate professional instruments—choose based on playing style and budget.

Q: Can I install a Bigsby vibrato on my ES-125?

A: Yes, Bigsby vibratos can be installed on ES-125 guitars, and many period players made this modification. However, installation requires drilling mounting holes, which is irreversible and affects collectibility. If your ES-125 is all-original and from the 1940s-1950s, a Bigsby installation would reduce collector value significantly. For player-grade later examples, a properly installed Bigsby is an accepted modification. Consider using a Vibramate adapter which requires no drilling for reversible installation.

Q: How much does an ES-125 weigh?

A: ES-125 guitars typically weigh between 6-8 pounds, lighter than many solid-body guitars due to their hollow construction. The laminated maple body contributes to moderate weight without the heft of solid carved-top archtops like the L-5 or Super 400. Weight varies based on specific model, year, and wood density. The ES-125TDC three-quarter size models are notably lighter due to smaller body dimensions.

Take the Next Step with Your ES-125

Edgewater's Evaluation Process

Initial Consultation:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607 for immediate discussion

• Online Form: Submit evaluation request with photos

• Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com

• No obligation: Free consultation regardless of decision

Information We'll Request:

• Model variant (125, 125T, 125TD, or 125TDC)

• Serial number (use our lookup tool first if you'd like)

• Overall condition and known issues

• Pickup configuration and originality

• Finish type and condition

• Any modifications or repairs

• Original case availability

Preliminary Assessment:

• Model identification and dating verification

• Originality assessment (original vs. modified)

• Condition evaluation based on photos

• Discussion of market position for your specific variant

• Recommendation for next steps

In-Person Evaluation: For significant examples (pre-1950s, rare ES-125TD, all-original specimens):

• We travel to your location within service area

• Comprehensive hands-on authentication

• Detailed condition documentation

• Complete originality verification

• Immediate cash offer if purchase agreed

• On-site transaction with full payment

Why Timing Matters

Current Market Conditions: The vintage guitar market shows strong interest in affordable vintage Gibson archtops like the ES-125. Players and collectors increasingly recognize these guitars' quality and historical significance beyond their entry-level designation.

ES-125 Market Segments:

• Early examples (1940s-1950s) attracting serious collectors

• ES-125TD models have devoted following among players

• All-original examples becoming scarcer as modifications accumulate

• Player-grade instruments stable demand from working musicians

Preservation Considerations: If you own an ES-125 but aren't playing it, professional sale ensures the instrument reaches someone who will appreciate and preserve it. Proper storage (climate control, appropriate case) is essential if keeping long-term.

Contact Edgewater Guitars Today

Ready for Professional Evaluation?

Contact Methods:

• Call: (440) 219-3607 (Monday-Friday 9AM-6PM, Saturday 10AM-4PM)

• Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com

• Online Form: [Request Free Evaluation]

What to Prepare:

• Note your ES-125 model variant (125, 125T, 125TD, or 125TDC)

• Locate serial number (use lookup tool)

• Take clear photos (entire guitar, headstock, serial number, any issues)

• Document any known modifications or repairs

• Note overall condition

Service Coverage: Ohio • Michigan • Pennsylvania • Indiana • West Virginia

For Premium Examples: We provide in-person evaluation at your location for significant ES-125 guitars including pre-1950s models, rare ES-125TD variants, and exceptional all-original specimens.

About the Author:

Stephen Thompson specializes in vintage Gibson authentication with comprehensive knowledge of the complete ES-125 series across its 30-year production run. His expertise in differentiating between the various ES-125 models and dating instruments from specific years helps owners understand what they have and make informed decisions about preservation or sale.

Through Edgewater Guitars, he has evaluated ES-125 guitars from every production era, helping families and collectors navigate the vintage guitar market while ensuring fair compensation for those choosing to sell. His commitment to education preserves the history of Gibson's most accessible electric archtop series.