Gibson ES-335 DOT Reissue | 1997

The 1997 Gibson ES-335 Dot with a natural figured maple finish is a stunning example of semi-hollow craftsmanship from what many players call the "good wood era" of the 1990s; a time when Gibson’s Memphis plant was hitting its stride with quality tonewoods and consistent builds. This pre-loved gem, found in amazing condition, showcases a beautifully figured maple top, back, and sides, its AAA-grade laminate revealing swirling, flame-like patterns that glow under the natural finish, a translucent coat that lets the wood’s character shine through. Built during a period revered for its use of well-seasoned, resonant timber, this ES-335 embodies the rich tonal legacy of Gibson’s semi-hollow lineage, blending vintage vibe with a touch of modern reliability.
 
The body is a classic 3-ply maple/poplar/maple construction, semi-hollow with a solid maple centerblock running down the middle; a design that tames feedback while preserving the airy, woody resonance that defines the ES-335. That centerblock, paired with the figured maple, gives this guitar a balanced voice: warm and thick with a hint of snap, perfect for jazz, blues, or rock. The natural finish, likely a gloss nitrocellulose lacquer, not only highlights the wood’s figuring but also lets the instrument breathe tonally, a hallmark of the ‘90s builds when Gibson leaned on quality lumber from slower-growing trees; wood that had time to mature and dry, unlike some of the greener stock used in later years.
 
The mahogany neck, quartersawn for stability, sports a comfortable slim-taper profile typical of late ‘90s Gibsons, mated to a bound rosewood fretboard with pearloid dot inlays; a nod to the classic Dot Reissue style. With a 24.75-inch scale length and 22 medium-jumbo frets, it’s a player’s neck, smooth and fast, with a 12-inch radius that suits both chord work and lead runs. The frets have ample life left in them, showing minimal wear for a pre-loved instrument; testament to its careful prior ownership and remarkable preservation. The headstock, adorned with the Gibson logo and Grover Rotomatics, frames the package with understated elegance.
 
Electronics-wise, this ES-335 rocks a pair of Gibson’s ‘57 Classic humbuckers—or possibly 490R/498T pickups, depending on the exact spec—wired to a traditional setup: two volume knobs, two tones, and a 3-way toggle switch. These pickups deliver that PAF-inspired growl, with creamy lows, a slightly scooped midrange, and singing highs, making this guitar a tonal chameleon. The ‘90s were a sweet spot for Gibson’s pickup consistency, and this era’s ES-335s often punch above their weight, offering clarity and depth that rival pricier reissues.
 
Hardware includes a Nashville Tune-o-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece, both in nickel, paired with a black multi-ply pickguard that contrasts the natural wood. Weighing in around 3.8Kgs, it’s got that substantial yet manageable feel; light enough for long gigs, solid enough to resonate deeply. The "good wood era" reputation stems from Gibson’s access to prime cuts of maple and mahogany in the ‘90s, before tighter regulations and faster production demands shifted the supply. Players swear by this period for its resonance and sustain, crediting the wood’s age and drying process for a livelier, more open sound compared to some modern builds.
 
This 1997 ES-335 isn’t just a guitar ... it’s a snapshot of Gibson at a peak, marrying aesthetics and tone in a way that’s tough to beat. As a pre-loved find in amazing condition, with frets that still have plenty of life, it’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of the ‘90s good wood legacy. The figured maple glows like a work of art, while the craftsmanship ensures it plays and sounds as good as it looks. Whether you’re chasing vintage warmth or cutting through a mix, this one’s a keeper from an era that still echoes in players’ hands today.