The Gibson J-45™ was first introduced in 1942, and guitars from that inaugural year of production rank among the most sought-after vintage acoustic guitars in the world. As Gibson’s best-selling acoustic model of all time, the J-45 quickly earned the nickname "The Workhorse" thanks to its simple, straightforward character, understated elegance, and widespread use on stages and in studios across the globe. Now, Epiphone—in collaboration with Gibson Custom—proudly presents the Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 Reissue, a stunning recreation of the legendary original "Workhorse" model from 1942. This exceptional acoustic guitar features a solid, thermally aged spruce top reinforced with scalloped X-bracing and paired with solid mahogany back and sides, delivering the rich, balanced tone that has made the J-45 a long-time favorite among musicians.
The body features single-ply ivory-colored binding on both the top and back. The one-piece mahogany neck boasts a comfortable profile and is topped with an Indian rosewood fingerboard featuring 19 standard frets and mother-of-pearl dot inlays. The headstock sports the world-famous Gibson "open book" profile and bears the "Inspired by Gibson Custom" logo (with double diamond) engraved on the back, along with the Epiphone logo and "Epiphone Inspired by Gibson" banner in gold silk-screen print on the front. The tuners are of the "three-on-a-plate" variety, featuring cream-colored buttons and an open-gear design, just like those found on original vintage models. The pickguard mirrors the teardrop shape of the earliest J-45 models, while the rectangular rosewood bridge is fitted with a compensated bone saddle for improved intonation. Both the nut and bridge pins are also crafted from bone.
To meet the needs and preferences of modern musicians, the guitar comes equipped with a built-in L.R. Baggs™ Element Bronze VTC preamp system and an under-saddle piezo pickup, making it stage- and studio-ready whenever you are. A "Red Line"-inspired hardshell case featuring the "Inspired by Gibson Custom" logo is also included, ensuring this exceptional acoustic guitar stays well-protected on your way to your next gig.
