Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby Antique Red, (Used)

The Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby in Antique Red is a magnificent American-made semi-hollow electric guitar, combining the elegance of Gibson's flagship ES design with luxurious appointments, expressive humbucker tones and the distinctive character of a Bigsby vibrato.

For guitarists who have always admired the unmistakable appearance of Noel Gallagher's Gibson ES-355, this is an especially exciting opportunity.

If you've dreamed of owning the kind of red Gibson ES-355 made famous by the Oasis guitarist but don't want to spend upwards of £25,000 on the highly collectable Noel Gallagher signature reissue, this limited-edition Custom Shop model offers a compelling alternative.

It delivers much of the visual appeal that makes Gallagher's famous guitar so desirable: a rich red semi-hollow body, elegant Custom-style appointments and a traditional Bigsby vibrato.

The ES-355 represents the more luxurious side of Gibson's legendary ES family, building upon the versatile semi-hollow design with premium appointments and sophisticated styling.

The traditional semi-hollow construction combines laminated maple with a central solid block, providing the warmth and resonance associated with hollowbody instruments alongside the sustain and feedback resistance required for amplified rock and blues playing.

Its dual-humbucker configuration delivers an impressive range of sounds, from warm, rounded cleans and expressive blues leads to powerful classic rock rhythms and richly sustaining overdrive.

The Bigsby vibrato provides an additional expressive dimension, allowing subtle pitch movement, gentle chord shimmer and classic vintage-style vibrato.

Finished in beautiful Antique Red, this Gibson Custom Shop instrument captures the timeless elegance of the ES-355 design while offering an appearance closely associated with some of the most recognisable guitars in British rock music.

This particular example is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.54 lbs (approximately 4.33kg) and comes complete with a hardcase.

Carrying serial number 00409705 and product code ES55ARDBG1, this limited-edition Gibson is a particularly appealing choice for collectors, Oasis enthusiasts and musicians seeking a premium semi-hollow electric guitar with exceptional stage presence.

At A Glance

Detail	Information
Brand	Gibson
Model	Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby
Finish	Antique Red
Manufacturer Product Code	ES55ARDBG1
Serial Number	00409705
Country of Manufacture	USA
Body Type	Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar
Vibrato	Bigsby
Condition	Excellent – Pre-Owned
Weight	9.54 lbs / 4.33kg
Case	Hardcase Included

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Excellent Condition

This Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby Antique Red is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, indicating very light signs of previous use.

The instrument features its striking Antique Red finish, traditional double-cutaway semi-hollow design and distinctive Bigsby vibrato.

The combination of classic Gibson styling and Custom Shop appointments makes this a particularly attractive instrument for musicians who appreciate vintage-inspired premium guitars.

Please study the accompanying product photographs carefully for a detailed assessment of the finish, neck, fingerboard, hardware and overall cosmetic condition.

Serial Number & Model Identification

Serial Number: 00409705

Gibson Product Code: ES55ARDBG1

The supplied product code identifies this instrument within Gibson's ES-355 Bigsby range.

The serial number follows Gibson's eight-digit date-based format, consistent with late-2000s manufacture.

Weight – 9.54 lbs

This Gibson Custom Shop ES-355 weighs 9.54 lbs (approximately 4.33kg).

Its substantial weight provides a reassuring playing feel, complemented by the guitar's traditional semi-hollow construction and Bigsby vibrato assembly.

The weight is worth considering for musicians who regularly perform standing for extended periods.

Hardcase Included

The guitar comes complete with a hardcase, providing valuable protection for storage and transportation.

What's Included

• Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby Antique Red Electric Guitar

• Hardcase

Service & Setup

The Gibson ES-355 features an adjustable truss rod and traditional bridge hardware, allowing appropriate adjustment of neck relief, string action and intonation. The Bigsby vibrato benefits from correct string installation, suitable bridge setup and careful attention to the nut and moving components to maintain smooth operation and tuning stability. Regular maintenance of the frets, pickups, controls and hardware helps preserve the performance of this premium instrument. As with all guitars, setup can naturally change due to variations in humidity, temperature and other environmental conditions, potentially affecting neck relief, string action and overall playability.

Key Features

• Gibson Limited Edition ES-355: A premium interpretation of Gibson's luxurious semi-hollow electric guitar.

• Antique Red Finish: Classic, vintage-inspired red Gibson styling.

• Bigsby Vibrato: Expressive pitch modulation and gentle chord shimmer.

• Custom Shop Heritage: Premium Gibson construction and appointments.

• Traditional Semi-Hollow Design: Balances acoustic-style resonance with electric guitar sustain.

• Solid Centre Block Construction: Helps manage feedback and supports amplified performance.

• Dual-Humbucker Configuration: Warm cleans, articulate rhythms and powerful lead tones.

• Classic Double-Cutaway Body: Comfortable upper-fret accessibility.

• Vintage-Inspired ES-355 Styling: Elegant details inspired by Gibson's historic flagship semi-hollow models.

• Oasis-Inspired Visual Appeal: A compelling alternative for fans of Noel Gallagher's famous ES-355.

• Suitable for Blues & Rock: A versatile instrument for expressive playing.

• Excellent Pre-Owned Condition: Very light signs of previous use.

• 9.54 lb Weight: Substantial playing feel.

• Hardcase Included: Protection for a premium instrument.

Why You'll Love It

The Gibson Custom Shop ES-355 offers something particularly special: the expressive versatility of a traditional Gibson semi-hollow guitar combined with the luxurious appearance of one of the company's most celebrated designs.

Its Antique Red finish immediately draws attention, particularly when combined with the distinctive Bigsby vibrato.

The guitar has the kind of unmistakable stage presence associated with classic British rock, blues and vintage-inspired music.

Its semi-hollow construction provides a lively, resonant response that feels different from a conventional solid-body guitar, while the central block contributes sustain and helps control unwanted feedback.

The traditional humbucker design gives the guitar the warmth and power required for classic rock, while remaining expressive enough for blues, jazz and clean melodic playing.

The Bigsby adds another dimension, allowing subtle vibrato and gentle pitch movement that can bring sustained chords and melodic phrases to life.

And for fans of Noel Gallagher and Oasis, the visual connection is particularly appealing.

The Noel Gallagher ES-355 Connection

Few guitars are as closely associated with the sound and image of British rock as Noel Gallagher's red Gibson ES-355.

Gallagher's famous instrument became a defining part of his stage setup, its elegant red finish, traditional semi-hollow body and Bigsby vibrato creating an instantly recognisable appearance.

Gibson later produced the highly collectable Noel Gallagher 1960 ES-355 Signature Reissue, a limited-edition Custom Shop recreation of his original instrument.

For many Oasis fans, that signature guitar represents a dream purchase.

However, with examples associated with premium five-figure asking prices, owning one can be difficult to justify for musicians who primarily want the appearance and playing experience rather than the specific collectable signature edition.

That's where this Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby becomes particularly interesting.

It offers the same broad visual appeal: the classic red semi-hollow body, luxurious ES-355 styling and expressive Bigsby vibrato.

It is not a Noel Gallagher signature model or an exact replica of his guitar, but it provides a fantastic opportunity to capture much of that iconic aesthetic through a genuine Gibson Custom Shop instrument.

For the guitarist who wants to step on stage with a stunning red Gibson semi-hollow, this is a particularly compelling alternative.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Gibson's Flagship ES-355 Design

The Gibson ES-355 was introduced in 1958 as a more luxurious interpretation of the revolutionary ES-335. Combining the versatile semi-hollow construction of the ES family with premium appointments, the ES-355 quickly became associated with professional musicians and discerning guitarists. Its distinctive appearance and expressive tonal character have helped make it one of Gibson's most desirable traditional electric guitar designs.

Stunning Antique Red Finish

The Antique Red finish gives this Gibson Custom Shop instrument a beautifully traditional appearance, combining rich red colouring with the elegant proportions of the ES body. It is particularly attractive alongside the guitar's vintage-inspired hardware and Bigsby vibrato. The finish creates a strong visual connection to the classic red ES guitars associated with British rock, blues and jazz musicians.

Traditional Semi-Hollow Construction

The ES-355 follows Gibson's established semi-hollow design philosophy, combining a resonant hollow-style body with a solid central block. This arrangement provides a distinctive response that sits between the warmth of a fully hollow instrument and the sustain and control of a solid-body electric guitar. It is particularly effective for musicians who move between clean playing, blues overdrive and rock guitar.

Expressive Bigsby Vibrato

The Bigsby vibrato is one of this instrument's most appealing features. Designed for smooth, controlled pitch movement, it allows players to introduce gentle vibrato, expressive chord shimmer and vintage-inspired effects. Rather than the extreme pitch changes associated with modern locking tremolo systems, the Bigsby excels at musical subtlety, making it particularly attractive for blues, rockabilly, classic rock and atmospheric playing.

Rich Humbucker Character

The traditional ES-355 dual-humbucker layout provides a broad range of expressive sounds. The neck pickup position offers warm, rounded tones suited to blues and jazz, while the bridge position delivers greater attack and presence for crunchy rock rhythms and sustaining leads. The combination makes the ES-355 an exceptionally versatile instrument for musicians who enjoy both clean and driven guitar sounds.

Classic Gibson Playing Feel

The ES-355 design incorporates Gibson's familiar shorter-scale playing philosophy, providing a comfortable feel for expressive bends, vibrato and melodic playing. Combined with the double-cutaway body, the design offers convenient access to higher notes and a playing experience suited to everything from traditional chord work to detailed lead guitar.

Premium Custom Shop Appeal

The Gibson Custom Shop is closely associated with premium versions of the company's most important electric guitar designs. The ES-355 occupies a particularly prestigious position within the Gibson family, with its luxurious heritage and distinctive styling appealing to both professional musicians and enthusiasts of traditional American guitars. This limited-edition Bigsby model is especially attractive to players seeking something less commonplace than a standard ES-335.

Blues & Classic Rock Performance

The ES-355 design is particularly effective for blues and classic rock because of its combination of warm humbucker sounds, responsive playing dynamics and semi-hollow construction. Through a lightly driven valve amplifier, the guitar can produce expressive melodic tones and articulate rhythm sounds. Increasing the gain introduces richer sustain and greater attack, making it suitable for classic rock leads and powerful chord playing.

A Distinctive Stage Instrument

The Antique Red finish and Bigsby hardware make this ES-355 an instrument with exceptional visual presence. Its traditional double-cutaway silhouette is instantly recognisable, while the premium appointments provide an elegant appearance that stands apart from conventional solid-body guitars. For performers who value both sound and presentation, this combination is particularly appealing.

An Alternative to Signature Collectables

Many highly desirable artist-signature guitars carry substantial premiums because of limited production, collectability and their association with influential musicians. This ES-355 provides an attractive alternative for someone drawn to the visual character of the Noel Gallagher signature model but who primarily wants a playable, premium Gibson semi-hollow guitar. Its appeal lies in its own Custom Shop identity, classic design and expressive Bigsby-equipped configuration.

Who Is It For?

Oasis & Noel Gallagher Fans: An outstanding red Bigsby-equipped Gibson with strong visual appeal.

Gibson Collectors: A distinctive Limited Edition Custom Shop ES-355.

Classic Rock Guitarists: Warm humbucker sounds and expressive vibrato.

Blues Musicians: Responsive semi-hollow character and smooth lead tones.

Professional Performers: An instrument with exceptional stage presence.

Recording Guitarists: Suitable for clean, lightly driven and sustaining lead guitar sounds.

Vintage Gibson Enthusiasts: Traditional ES styling with luxurious appointments.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Gibson Custom Shop ES-355 is well suited to blues, classic rock, Britpop, indie, alternative rock, jazz, soul, rockabilly and vintage-inspired music.

Its warm humbucker sounds work particularly well through valve amplifiers, allowing players to explore everything from articulate cleans to rich overdrive.

The Bigsby vibrato adds expressive pitch movement, particularly effective for sustained chords, atmospheric textures and melodic lead playing.

For Oasis-inspired guitar tones, the instrument is particularly appealing when paired with a responsive British-style amplifier and suitable overdrive or delay effects.

How It Compares

Gibson Custom Shop ES-355 Bigsby vs Noel Gallagher 1960 ES-355 Reissue

The Noel Gallagher 1960 ES-355 is a highly collectable signature model produced by Gibson Custom as a detailed tribute to the Oasis guitarist's famous instrument.

It incorporates artist-specific historical details, a Murphy Lab aged finish and signature-edition accessories.

This Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby offers a different proposition: a premium Gibson with a strikingly similar broad visual character, classic red finish and expressive Bigsby vibrato, without needing to purchase the particular signature reissue.

For musicians who want the look and spirit rather than an exact artist replica, the Limited Edition ES-355 is a compelling alternative.

Gibson ES-355 vs Gibson ES-335

Both instruments share Gibson's influential semi-hollow construction philosophy and versatile dual-humbucker character.

The ES-355 traditionally features more elaborate appointments, distinguishing it as the premium model within the ES family.

The ES-335 offers a more understated interpretation, while the ES-355 is particularly appealing to players who enjoy luxurious styling and historic Gibson character.

Gibson ES-355 vs Gibson Les Paul Standard

The Les Paul Standard features a solid-body single-cutaway design, while the ES-355 uses a larger semi-hollow double-cutaway body.

The ES-355 offers a more acoustic-influenced physical response, making it particularly attractive for blues, jazz and vintage-inspired rock.

The choice depends on preferred playing feel, instrument size and tonal character.

Gibson ES-355 Heritage

The Gibson ES-355 was introduced in 1958, following the arrival of the groundbreaking ES-335.

It was designed as a premium semi-hollow electric guitar, combining the innovative construction of the ES-335 with more luxurious cosmetic details.

Over the following decades, the ES-355 became associated with influential musicians including B.B. King and other celebrated blues, jazz and rock performers.

The model's reputation continued into contemporary music, with Noel Gallagher's red ES-355 becoming one of the most recognisable guitars associated with Oasis.

Today, Custom Shop ES-355 instruments remain highly desirable among players who appreciate their elegant appearance, expressive sound and historical importance.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar
Brand	Gibson
Model	Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby
Manufacturer Product Code	ES55ARDBG1
Serial Number	00409705
Country of Manufacture	USA
Finish	Antique Red
Body Shape	ES Double Cutaway
Body Construction	Semi-Hollow
Vibrato	Bigsby
Pickup Configuration	Dual Humbucker
Number of Strings	6
Weight	9.54 lbs / Approx. 4.33kg
Condition	Excellent – Pre-Owned
Case	Hardcase Included

Power Requirements

The traditional Gibson ES-355 uses passive electric guitar electronics and does not require a battery or external power supply.

The guitar connects to a suitable amplifier, effects processor or audio interface using a standard ¼-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

The Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby Antique Red is a spectacular semi-hollow electric guitar combining classic Gibson character, luxurious styling and the expressive versatility of a Bigsby vibrato.

Its greatest attraction is the combination of premium Gibson construction and unmistakable visual appeal.

For Oasis enthusiasts, the Antique Red finish and Bigsby-equipped ES-355 design provide a strong connection to the classic look of Noel Gallagher's famous guitar.

For blues and rock players, the semi-hollow body and dual-humbucker configuration offer warmth, clarity and excellent musical versatility.

This particular example is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.54 lbs and comes complete with a hardcase.

Best Suited For: Oasis enthusiasts, Gibson collectors, blues and classic rock guitarists, and musicians seeking a distinctive premium semi-hollow.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Gibson ES-335 models, Epiphone ES-355 guitars and other traditional semi-hollow instruments.

Most Commonly Paired With: Marshall-style valve amplifiers, Vox amplifiers, boutique overdrive pedals, analogue delay and reverb.

Our Tip: For classic Britpop-inspired playing, combine a lightly driven British-style amplifier with the guitar's bridge pickup. Add subtle Bigsby movement to sustained chords for expressive vintage character.

Showroom Advice: This guitar offers a particularly striking alternative for players attracted to highly collectable red ES-355 signature instruments. Its 9.54 lb weight and larger semi-hollow body are important considerations when comparing it with conventional solid-body guitars.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a pre-owned Gibson Custom Shop guitar from Fair Deal Music offers an opportunity to own a distinctive premium instrument with the character and appeal of an established Gibson design.

Our experienced team understands the importance of accurate condition descriptions, model identification and clear information about included accessories.

This particular Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.54 lbs, carries serial number 00409705 and comes complete with a hardcase.

Warranty, Returns & Delivery

This is a pre-owned Gibson Custom Shop electric guitar, with its condition and confirmed accessories detailed above.

Applicable warranty and returns arrangements are governed by Fair Deal Music's current terms, with available UK delivery and showroom collection options provided at checkout.

The included hardcase offers valuable protection during storage and transportation.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Based in Birmingham, Fair Deal Music specialises in new, used, vintage and collectable guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals, keyboards and professional audio equipment.

Our experienced team of musicians provides knowledgeable advice and personal service, helping customers find instruments suited to their playing styles and requirements.

Customers benefit from competitive pricing, UK delivery options, our Birmingham showroom and part-exchange services.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including Gibson Custom Shop guitars, vintage and collectable instruments, amplifiers, basses and effects pedals.

Your existing equipment could help towards the cost of this Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition ES-355 Bigsby.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this Gibson Custom Shop ES-355 in?

It is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, indicating very light signs of previous use.

Does the guitar come with a case?

Yes. A hardcase is included.

What finish does it have?

Antique Red.

Does it have a Bigsby vibrato?

Yes. The guitar is equipped with a Bigsby vibrato.

How much does it weigh?

9.54 lbs, approximately 4.33kg.

What is the serial number?

409705.  

What is the Gibson product code?

ES55ARDBG1.

Is this a Gibson Custom Shop guitar?

Yes. It is identified as a Gibson Custom Shop Limited Edition instrument.

Is this a Noel Gallagher signature ES-355?

No. It is a separate Gibson Limited Edition model.

Why is it appealing to Noel Gallagher fans?

Its Antique Red finish, ES-355 styling and Bigsby vibrato provide a similar broad visual character to Gallagher's famous red Gibson.

Is it identical to the Noel Gallagher ES-355 Reissue?

No. The Noel Gallagher model features specific appointments and collectable signature-edition details.

Is the ES-355 different from the ES-335?

Yes. The ES-355 is traditionally the more luxurious model within Gibson's semi-hollow ES family, with additional cosmetic appointments.

Is this a semi-hollow guitar?

Yes. It features traditional Gibson semi-hollow construction.

Does the Bigsby allow pitch bending?

Yes. It is designed for smooth, gentle vibrato and subtle pitch changes.

Is it suitable for classic rock?

Yes. Its humbucker configuration and semi-hollow construction are particularly appealing for classic rock.

Can it be used for blues?

Yes. The ES-355 design offers warm, expressive tones suitable for blues.

Is it suitable for Britpop and Oasis-inspired music?

Yes. Its traditional Gibson styling and versatile humbucker character make it an attractive choice for those styles.

Is it suitable for recording?

Yes. Semi-hollow Gibson guitars are widely used for clean, driven and melodic studio guitar work.

Does it require a battery?

The traditional passive ES-355 electronics do not require battery power.

Can I part-exchange another guitar towards this Gibson?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers guitars and other musical equipment for part exchange.