By C.

Vintage Gibson instruments are well known for their exceptional craftsmanship and classic designs, but what about their distinctive range of custom colors? While many tend to think of Fender when it comes to unique custom-colored guitars and basses, Gibson offered their own as well. These colors, introduced primarily in the 1950s and 1960s, have become synonymous with vintage charm and individuality, setting Gibson guitars apart from the standard finishes prevalent in the industry.

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The introduction of custom colors was a response to the growing demand for more personalized and visually striking instruments. Prior to this, guitars were predominantly available in classic sunburst or natural finishes, which, while timeless, did not cater to the diverse tastes of the musicians of the 60’s. Gibson seized the opportunity to adapt and began offering an array of custom finishes that allowed players to express their personality through these vibrant instruments.

It’s important to remember with Gibson that some colors that would be standard on certain models would be considered custom colors if used on another model. For example the Cherry Red, notably seen on models like the Gibson SG and ES guitars, would certainly be considered a custom color (or “custom order”) on a model like a Firebird, which was very often finished in sunburst. Also, certain colors that might also not strike you as being particularly unusual for a guitar can actually be the rarest of all. The most notable of this phenomenon is black, or ‘Ebony’ as commonly referred to by Gibson. Factory black Les Paul Standards, SG’s, ES-335’s and so on have all been known to exist throughout the 50’s and 60’s, though exceedingly rare in number and very often counterfeited.

Another one of these iconic custom colors might be Polaris White, a stark opaque white that graced Gibson electric models such as the SG Custom as a standard finish, though seen on something like a Trini Lopez would be very rare and desirable indeed. Back then, some of these Polaris White instruments would overwhelm the cameras for black and white television, so Gibson created a unique solution known as “TV Yellow”.

This new “white” was a semi-translucent pale yellow that allowed white guitars to appear normal on camera without causing any visual disturbances. This was all well and good for the 1950’s, but by the time the mid-60’s rolled around Gibson really turned up the heat when they introduced 10 other striking custom colors such as Pelham Blue, Inverness Green, Silver and Gold Mist Poly, Frost Blue, Ember Red, Kerry Green, Cardinal Red, and Heather Poly. Each of these colors brought a unique aesthetic to the guitars, allowing musicians to make a bold statement on stage. Pelham Blue, for instance, is a cool and elegant metallic blue that has adorned models like the ES-335 and SG, creating a visual allure that perfectly complements the sonic superiority of these instruments.

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Inverness Green, a unique and sophisticated shade, found its way onto various Gibson models in very small numbers, adding an element of mystery and allure. This metallic green finish has a timeless quality that has contributed to its enduring popularity among guitar enthusiasts. The introduction of such diverse custom colors demonstrated Gibson’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of guitar aesthetics and providing musicians with instruments that were both sonically and visually stunning. Today, original Inverness Green instruments are some of the rarest and most collectible, though it can often be difficult to distinguish the true color from a Pelham Blue finish with a heavily yellowed clear coat.

Golden Mist Poly, on the other hand, offered a touch of glamour and luxury. This metallic gold finish, shimmering under stage lights, added a level of opulence to the guitars. Models to wear a Golden Mist finish are coveted symbols of prestige, reflecting an era where guitars were not just instruments but also statements of style and class.

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While the popularity of custom colors declined in the late 1960s and early 1970s, these finishes have experienced a resurgence in recent years. Guitarists and collectors now seek out vintage Gibson models with original custom colors, appreciating not only the exceptional sound and craftsmanship but also the unique visual identity and scarcity that these guitars represent.

Gibson custom colors represent a fascinating chapter in the history of electric guitars. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these finishes embody a spirit of creativity and individuality that resonates with musicians across genres. Whether it’s the bold Cherry Red, the cool Pelham Blue, the mysterious Inverness Green, the minimalist TV Yellow, or the luxurious Fire Mist Gold, Gibson’s custom colors have left an indelible mark on the world of guitars, proving that the instrument is not just about sound but also about making a statement.