A very cool late ‘80s Gibson ES-335, this 1987 Dot in a beautifully faded Tobacco Sunburst is a particularly clean and attractive example, elevated further by a great bit of artist provenance. Previously owned by Joe Newman of Alt-J, the guitar comes complete with a handwritten note from Newman himself, referencing its use on tour both live and when writing in hotels around the US.

The top and back show a lovely tight figuring that really comes through under the faded sunburst finish, while the nickel hardware has mellowed nicely, giving it that slightly dulled, played-in look. Despite it's use out in the field it has clearly been well cared for, retaining a clean overall appearance.

The pair of PAT-stamped humbuckers deliver that classic semi-hollow voice which is warm, open and articulate. It has the correct Nashville bridge, and is fitted with factory Grover tuners for solid stability. The guitar is stamped “SEC” on the back of the headstock, denoting a factory second, though there’s nothing immediately obvious in terms of cosmetic issues - it’s a very tidy instrument in the flesh.

The neck sits in that comfortable slim-to-medium C profile that Gibson were favouring at the time, which is fast without feeling insubstantial. With a 43.5mm nut width and a nicely balanced carve (21.1mm at the 1st fret, 24.4mm at the 12th), it feels immediately familiar in the hand. The original frets and nut are retained and still have plenty of life, contributing to a very nice overall playing feel. The guitar is currently fitted with amber bonnet knobs, while 3 black speed knobs are included in the case.

It comes housed in its correct brown Gibson hard case, complete with a bit of touring character in the form of “Joe Alt-J” gaffer tape on the side.

A great looking, great sounding ES-335 with a excellent artist provenance!