Historical Dividing Lines For Guitars

For collectors, guitar brands have historical dividing lines like “that’s when they moved the factory” or that’s when a certain person came or left.

One dividing line that seems to cross brands is pre or post WWII.

Both Martin and Gibson were introducing new models pre WWII.

They experimented. They used the best materials. They did not overproduce any line.

The Gibson J-35 is one of the “easier” treasures to find. It was introduced in 1936 and was made for about 5 years. At only $35 retail, the goal was to put quite a few in the hands of guitar players.

That does not mean they were poorly made. Adirondack Spruce for the top and Honduras Mahogany for the back and sides were great choices. The neck was round instead of the older “v” shape, so the modern feel is there. The bracing patterns used in the early J35s make the sound something unique and make the guitar worth the search.

Post WWII, they became the J45 with different bracing.

We got to see one in person.

Watch this episode of Every Guitar Has A Story

Watch more episodes

https://www.youtube.com/feed/playlists