Es 335 Experts Please Look And Advice

[liono9]

Hi guys just a couple days back i posted some pics of a ES 335 , just now while playing i saw something on the head stock which i thought should ask you guys, just below the serial # is "SECOND", what does that means??? is this a B stock marking or something???
Please advice.
Many thanks.

 

[darnright]

Re: Es 335 Experts Please Look And Advice

Usually just means there was some kind of finish flaw or maybe the wood wasn't pretty enough. Usually never a playing concern. I have owned several Gibson's marked second and they were as good as all the rest. I usually couldn't even find a flaw. I wouldn't be afraid of it because of that!! Not at all.

-dave

 

[blueman335]

Re: Es 335 Experts Please Look And Advice

Usually just means there was some kind of finish flaw or maybe the wood wasn't pretty enough. Usually never a playing concern. I have owned several Gibson's marked second and they were as good as all the rest. I usually couldn't even find a flaw. I wouldn't be afraid of it because of that!!

+1

 

[eggman]

Re: Es 335 Experts Please Look And Advice

Lion09,

Darnright had it: they spotted some small finish flaw at the factory, stamped it "second" and shipped a perfectly payable guitar anyway. Likely slightly mismatched grain or minor goof in the painting process. Play that guitar and enjoy!

Eggman


PS: My highschool homecoming queen was also a cheerleader. She had a sizeable birthmark on her thigh which was visible when she wore her cheerleader outfit. She made cheerleader AND homecoming queen with "second" stamped on her pretty thigh! Just trying to give a humorous perspective.

 

[jerryjg]

Re: Es 335 Experts Please Look And Advice

But it will make it significantly less valuable and some collectors wouldnt touch it with a ten foot pole.Ya know that right?

 

[blueman335]

Re: Es 335 Experts Please Look And Advice

But it will make it significantly less valuable and some collectors wouldnt touch it with a ten foot pole.Ya know that right?

Which is why you should get it for a nice price, and not lose money on it if you sell it later. Duh.

 

[Bludave]

Re: Es 335 Experts Please Look And Advice

It depends on where the #2 is. If its on top of the lacquer then its a finish flaw. If its under the lacquer then it could be something in the wood, or a neck joint or something similar. These are usually not any big concerns. I have a 335 from 1985 that is also a factory 2nd. and its my favorite Humbucker guitar. In many cases I have seen 2nd's and could not find anything wrong with them, yet I have seen "new" Gibson's with serious issues that are passing inspection. Go figure!