Gibson Guitars - 1937 L-12 Archtop - Used
Free Shipping Eligible
It's not every day a '30s-era Gibson archtop arrives here in the shop in such clean, original condition, especially not one of the more rare examples of the L-12.
This 1937 Gibson L-12 features a carved solid spurce top, over a carved solid maple back and sides, and was one of the premier Gibson archtops, marketed right alongside the famed L-5, and an upgrade over the L-7 and L-10. Here with an X-brace top and 17" wide lower bout, this is the big sounding jazz box from the swing-era delivering a snap and articulate four on the floor punch, while also resonant and lush for elegant lead lines.
The understated and unique appointments of this model really steal the show. The solid back has a beautiful burl to the maple, with loads of movement to the grain when viewed under different lighting. The triple bound body, headstock and pickguard are a lovely complement to the full body sunburst finish, which also includes the 3-piece flame maple neck.
The pearl diamond headstock inlay is unique to the L-12, and provides an excellent counterpoint to the script Gibson logo. The dark rosewood fingerboard and bridge are hallmarks of this L-12 model, with parallelogram inlays that would later be a signature appointment on a host of classic Gibson models. The original tailpiece is included as well, which was new design in 1937 and brings another elegant, art deco style, appointment to the instrument.
A single tuner has been replaced, only you would hardly know it. In 1961 what we believe was the original owner reached out to Gibson asking for a replacement, which they happened to have in stock and sent his way for a total of $3.23, which included the mail order fee of 15 cents. The receipt includes a postmark from Kalamazoo, MI with a date of June 17, 1961. The original tuner is included in the case, along with the receipt for the replacement. Vintage Gibson string packaging is also included (see photos).
This instrument is in incredible, crack free condition. The original celluloid pickguard is present, there are signs in a small area of the common pickguard off-gasing but it is currently in good, stable shape. There's a subtle flame the three-piece neck that is lovely, with minor amount of wear to the neck in first position.
A vintage DeArmond Model 1000 pickup that has been tested and does function is included in the case.
The original hardshell tweed case is in wonderful condition, and contains a Jenkins Music badge on the inside lid, a Kansas City mainstay in the world of musical instrument retail during this era.
