Nigel, my favorite ES-355 was stolen in 1975. I replaced it with a new 1976 ES-355 (red, with a bigsby). I never could keep it in tune, so I just didn't play it. After the store I got it from got a really good repair guy, I took it to him (about 95). Others had just adjusted the rod. He discovered that there was a lifetime warranty on it, IF (big IF) i could proove I was the original owner. I had no idea where the reciept was. A neck replacement was $450.00 at the time. Carl, my long-time friend and owner of Carls Music Center, disappeared in the back. 1/2 hour later, he came back with his "out" book. He let musicians try instruments, and logged them in and out. There, in the book was a record of the day I took the 3335 and a 147RV, with an indication that it was sold to me and an invoice number. Gibson accepted the entry as proof of purchase. Turns out, the problem was a missing truss rod nut. At the time, Gibson ran hot and cold as far as QC is concerned.

Another reason why I always try to shop with people I know and trust.

STill hve the 335...it's GREAT, and valuable (not sure how much).


Russ