1946 Gibson J45 Spruce Top

A year ago I posted this guitar when it was in David Hatchard’s shop but quickly took it down when I fell in love with it and knew it would be awhile before I was willing to sell it. Sorry if that came off as a tease, I won’t do it again.

But for those who remember, here it is again… the 1946 script logo Gibson J45. What a magical relic this one is!! Perhaps because the guys were just back from WWII and re assuming the builds at Gibson, taking over for those fabulous Kalamazoo Gals might be the reason these guitars are so special? Maybe the guys felt they had something to prove or maybe they were just happy not fighting overseas any longer, who knows? But these post war guitars have become so special now. We like to believe that after 4 years into the production of the J45, Gibson was making some worthwhile changes, like slimmer necks with the adjustable truss rods back in place and better quality spruce tops, both having been shortages during the War. Or they were just still developing this iconic guitar which would continue until today and beyond.

Saving this guitar was a task of love. David reset the neck, performed a complete re fret, replaced the broken bridge with a stunning old growth Brazilian rosewood replica, fabricated a new bone nut and saddle and repaired various loose braces and cracks. Ross Teigen’s shop then performed the needed cosmetics like lightly spraying the back and sides to make her a bit more presentable. But a relic she still is, dry as a bone with the exacting sound characteristics we search for. Not the prettiest girl at the dance, but ooh la la she IS the best dancer. The sound characteristics are every bit and more than the Been to War’43 SJ I sold to John Thomas for his Kalamazoo Gals book tour. The set up is absolutely wonderful with 4-3 action and a 1 3/4″ nut width, truly a joy to play. This guitar has Mojo galore and you will feel it with every lick! And with what we think is a worthy restoration, she is certainly ready for another lifetime of playing enjoyment.

Truly a sensational vintage player!! I know, because I will sorely miss this one.

With proper fitting TKL style hard case.

Special thank you to guitarists Richard Bastar III and Frank Corso for the fine demo vintage licks.