the guitarstyle
1957 Gibson SJN Country Western
1957 Gibson SJN Country Western
The evolution of the Gibson Country Western model begins in 1942 with the introduction of the Southern Jumbo. Introduced as essentially a slightly more deluxe version of the J-45, the Southern Jumbo went through a number of spec changes throughout the '40s and '50s, with the natural top SJN model being introduced in 1954 and later rebranded to the Country Western model name we now associated with these guitars.
This 1957 Gibson Country Western is a fantastic example of one of these guitars. The body is constructed from Sitka Spruce with Mahogany back and sides, and has a beautifully balanced sound. Gibson acoustics of this period were often lighter built and lighter braced than later models, making them more resonant and responsive than the majority of the later square shoulder models. This Country Western also features the signature split parallelogram pearl inlays and pearloid crown headstock logo, along with the pointed pick guard as opposed to the earlier teardrop style on previous models.
This guitar is in excellent condition for an instrument of its age, with only some minor buckle rash to the back of the body and the kind of lacquer checking and patina you would expect to see from an instrument of this age. This guitar is all original, with the exception of a set of period correct replacement Kluson tuners.
This guitar has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.