Gibson L12 1936 Archtop Guitar

Product Description

Gibson L12 Vintage 1936 pre-war Archtop with original case sn 94822.  L-12 models were produced in Kalamazoo, Michigan, between 1935 and 1941. The guitar is all original in good condition and features shell inlay to the headstock, rosewood fretboard, spruce top, maple back and sides, and a mahogany neck.Double-parallelagram fingerboard inlays and seven-piece diamond/star shaped peg head inlay. Tuner buttons are very fragile, other wise in great condition.

The 1930s and 40s were a true golden era for Gibson’s archtop line; a period that produced some of the most sought after and famed instruments. Choice maple and spruce was abundant, and this guitar is built with stunning pieces of both. World War II brought production in Kalamazoo, MI to a halt; but it was in 1946 Gibson ramped up production and built an incredible line of guitars to make up. This L-12 is a standing testament to the quality and enchantment of the era.

The passing of time has done wonders for this guitar, mellowing the overall tone while adding a certain depth and dynamic quality not found in new production instruments. It is unbelievably loud and projecting, perfect for Freddie Green big band rhythm – easily cutting through a 12-piece brass band unamplified. Because the fingerboard is raised above the soundboard, the entire top is able to vibrate and respond freely. Eddie Lang style leads are crisp, defined, and well-rounded throughout the entire register, while backing rhythm chords are powerful and clear from note to note. The neck profile is rounded and fat; resting well in the hand and consistently comfortable up and down the fingerboard.

Specifications:

Year: 1936
Model: L-12
Top: Spruce
Back and Sides: Flamed Birdseye Maple
Serial: 94822
Nut Width: 1 11/16″+
Scale Length: 25.4″
Lower Bout Width: 17″
Inlays: Dual Parallelogram
Trapeze tailpiece with 3 raised parallelograms
White Bound Black Pickguard
Total Length: 42 1/2″
Body Length: 20 7/8″
Lower Bout Width: 17″
Waist: 10 1/4″
Upper Bout Width: 12 1/2″
Depth: 3 1/2″
Original Hardshell case included

Sn 94823

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