2000 Gibson ES-135 Natural Figured Maple Hollow Body Electric Guitar - USA - Bigsby Vibrato - Gold

Offered here is an exceptionally well-preserved 2000 Gibson ES-135 hollow body electric guitar, crafted in the United States and bearing serial number U00512849. Produced during a celebrated era of Gibson USA workmanship, this Florentine cutaway archtop represents one of the most versatile and tonally rich models in the ES lineage.

The instrument features a beautifully figured maple top in a luminous natural finish, allowing the subtle flame and grain character to radiate beneath the gloss lacquer. Twin f-holes and multi-ply binding frame the body with classic Gibson elegance. The back displays striking bookmatched maple with chevron figuring beneath a deep cherry-brown transparent finish, offering a refined contrast to the lighter top.

Equipped with dual Gibson humbuckers, a tune-o-matic bridge, and a factory Bigsby vibrato tailpiece with engraved arm and black “G” emblem, this ES-135 delivers tonal breadth ranging from warm jazz articulation to articulate blues and vintage rock resonance. The gold hardware exhibits attractive, even patina consistent with age, enhancing its vintage aesthetic without compromising function.

The rosewood fingerboard features mother-of-pearl trapezoid inlays and retains strong fret life with only moderate playwear. The classic open-book headstock with pearl Gibson logo remains structurally sound, and the original Grover-style gold tuners function properly. Binding throughout appears intact and clean.

Very good to excellent vintage condition. Light surface swirls and honest hardware patina consistent with careful use. No visible cracks, headstock repairs, structural issues, or major finish damage observed. All visible components appear original and period-correct.

The Gibson ES-135 occupies a unique and increasingly appreciated position within the ES family. Produced in relatively modest numbers compared to the ES-335, it offers a lighter center-block construction and distinctive tonal character. Early 2000 USA examples in natural figured finish with factory Bigsby are increasingly sought after by collectors and performing musicians alike.

This instrument represents a refined example of early 21st century Gibson craftsmanship - visually striking, tonally versatile, and highly collectible.