1988 Gibson Les Paul Custom Kahler

Description

The Gibson Les Paul Custom has always represented the top end of the regular Gibson USA Les Paul range, combining the classic Les Paul construction with an altogether more luxurious specification. This particular 1988 example is something rather more unusual as it comes complete with the factory fitted, Gibson-branded, Kahler tremolo system and locking nut.

Dating from 1988, this is from the end of the regular manufacturing period for these Les Paul Custom Kahler models, although Gibson continued to offer Kahler-made tremolo systems under its own branding, as a custom order, for a few more years after 1988.

Finished in gloss black, the guitar has the full Les Paul Custom specification, including the bound mahogany body with maple cap, bound ebony fingerboard with mother-of-pearl block inlays, bound headstock with split-diamond inlay, gold hardware and twin covered humbuckers.

The standout feature is, of course, the Gibson-branded Kahler tremolo, complete with the corresponding locking nut. This is the substantial Kahler system used by Gibson during the late 1980s and early 1990s and gives the guitar a very different character from a conventional Les Paul, whilst retaining the familiar weight, construction and tone of the Custom. The demand for these models was driven in part by popularity of Def Leppard whose guitarist Steve Clark often played a white Les Paul Custom with a Kahler trem fitted (check out our other listing for a white 1990 Les Paul Custom Kahler)

The guitar is all original and in excellent condition. This is a particularly well-preserved example of a 38+ year old Gibson. The guitar comes complete with its original Gibson protector case (missing one latch) ......and, oh yeah, it weighs 4.70kg, as someone always asks.......

Shipping within mainland UK using fully insured 24-hour courier service @ £35.00.

Shipping to US/Canada, using UPS, is £185.00. Shipping to EU is £65.00

Customers outside of UK/EU/US/Canada should contact Vintage Rare & Retro Guitars for a shipping quotation. Free pick-up is always available at our Gullane shop.