 A century ago, the acoustic guitar landscape changed forever. In 1926, Gibson introduced the L-0 and L-1, flat-top models that would eventually become the DNA for every Gibson acoustic that followed. To honor this centennial milestone, the Gibson Custom Shop has officially unveiled the L-1 Anniversary Limited Edition in Cremona Burst.
With a strictly limited run of only 100 instruments worldwide, this release is more than just a tribute; it is a meticulously handcrafted recreation of the “blues machine” that defined an era.
The Sound of the Delta, Reborn
The L-1 is perhaps most famously etched into history via the only authenticated photo of Delta blues legend Robert Johnson. To capture that haunting, intimate, and woody tone, the Gibson Custom Shop in Bozeman, Montana, has utilized premium tonewoods and vintage-spec construction.
Master-Built Specifications
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Thermally Aged Red Spruce Top: This “torrefied” top mimics the cellular structure of a vintage instrument, providing a broken-in, responsive sound with massive headroom right out of the case.
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Solid Mahogany Back & Sides: Providing the warm, mid-range punch that mahogany is known for, ensuring every note is rich and full-bodied.
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Historic “V” Neck Profile: The 12-fret mahogany neck offers a substantial, period-correct feel that is a favorite for fingerstyle players and blues enthusiasts alike.
Period-Correct Elegance
Visually, the guitar is a masterclass in “Golden Era” aesthetics. The Cremona Burst nitrocellulose finish is complemented by extensive cream binding across the top, back, fingerboard, and headstock. Authentic hardware—including a rectangular ebony bridge with pyramid wings and “The Gibson” mother-of-pearl logo—ensures this guitar looks as historic as it sounds.
Quick Look: Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
| Top Material | Thermally Aged Red Spruce |
| Body Material | Mahogany Back & Sides |
| Neck Join | 12th Fret Dovetail |
| Fingerboard | Ebony with Mother-of-Pearl Dots |
| Scale Length | 25″ (635 mm) |
| Nut & Saddle | Authentic Bone |
| Exclusivity | Limited to 100 Units Worldwide |
| Price | £4,399.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the 12-fret neck join important?
The 12-fret design moves the bridge closer to the center of the lower bout (the widest part of the guitar body). This usually results in a warmer, more resonant tone with increased volume and “guts” compared to modern 14-fret designs.
What does “Thermally Aged” mean?
Also known as torrefaction, this is a process where the wood is baked in an oxygen-free oven. It removes moisture and volatiles, making the wood lighter and more stable, essentially “aging” the sound of the spruce by decades in a matter of days.
Is a case included with the purchase?
Yes. Given the limited nature of this release, each guitar comes with a period-correct L-1 hardshell case and a signed Certificate of Authenticity (COA).
Who is this guitar best suited for?
While versatile, the L-1 is the gold standard for blues, ragtime, and folk. Its compact body makes it incredibly comfortable for intimate home playing and recording, particularly for fingerstyle techniques.
Conclusion
The Gibson Custom Shop L-1 Anniversary Limited Edition is a rare opportunity to own a piece of music history. It manages to bridge the gap between a museum-quality collector’s item and a professional-grade workhorse. For those seeking the dry, punchy, and soulful voice of the 1920s, there is simply no substitute.
At $4999.00/£4,399.00 and with only 100 pieces in existence, these are expected to vanish from showrooms quickly.
Available at Andertons – £4399
Available at Sweetwater – $4999
Available at Thomann – €4999
More Information
#Gibson #L-1 Anniversary
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