1979 Gibson Les Paul KM, Tobacco Sunburst
Superb 1979 Gibson Les Paul K.M - Kalamazoo Model in excellent original condition. One of the more recognisable Norlin era guitars produced, the K.M was released in 1979 as a Limited Edition instrument with approximately 1500 made, offered in Antique Sunburst, Cherry Sunburst and Natural. Made in the original Gibson Factory at 225 Parson Street, Kalamazoo as a tentative attempt at an authentic 50’s Reissue. Featuring the legendary “double white” T-Top pickups, early examples in the run came with a “Custom Made” plaque pinned to the top.
This guitar is one of those earlier models with “Custom Made” plaque attached, finished in a lovely dark Antique Sunburst finish. The guitar is in excellent original condition having been with its previous owner for the last 30 years. The body has a non-sandwich Mahogany construction with a two piece, center seam Maple top. The 3 piece maple neck has Rosewood fingerboard with trapezoid inlays. The guitar has many production traits associated with this period of production, the headstock sports the Norlin Gibson Logo with closed B and O, the body has period correct wide binding in the cutaway and the neck has a volute and Made in U.S.A stamp.
The guitar is in collectors condition with no discernible marks or wear to the body. The guitar retains its original parts and electronics. The two uncovered “double cream” T-top humbuckers are an instantly recognisable feature of the K.M, only featuring in this and two obscure Gibson models before a disagreement with DiMarzio resulted in a trademark battle that curtailed Gibson’s use. The neck pickup measures 7.51K and the Bridge 7.42K. Pots display matching CTS 137-7924 source code. Then electronics cavity is neat and all solder untouched. Likewise the hardware is in excellent condition, Chrome plated Nashville Bridge and tailpiece, Nickel Grover Rotomatic tuners with Keystone buttons. Gold speed knobs, Cream pickguard and pickup plastics.
The guitar plays well, the original frets have plenty of life and the neck has a comfortable C profile neck. The guitar sounds excellent, it is easily understandable why T-Top pickups have the reputation they do. There is a warmth and smoothness in the neck position with the bridge giving great clarity, bite and articulation.
Weighing in at 10.8lbs, the guitar comes with its original Gibson Protector Case in equally good condition.