A "one-off" (as confirmed by the Swiss distributor) 2013 Gibson SG "Factory Hybrid" - 70s Tribute (24-fret neck) Meets Future Spec (57 Classic Zebra pickups)
Condition: Brand New / Unplayed (MINT)
Includes: Original Gibson USA Hardshell Case
The DNA Check (The Paperwork)
Model No. SGTRFE5RCL: This code is the official Gibson shorthand. SGTR (SG TRibute) FE ("Future" Edition, with 57 Classic Zebra pickups) 5 (2013 run) RC (Rosewood Fingerboard/Chrome hardware, Grover Rotomatic tuners with Keystones knobs) L indicates the specific finish code "Satin Vintage Sunburst"
In 2013, it wasn't uncommon for a "Future Tribute" to be built using whatever mahogany neck was next in the rack. If a '70s-carved 24-fret neck was sitting there, they glued it in, loaded it with the higher-end '57 Classic Zebra pickups (which this guitar has), and sent it out the door.
The result: we have the "heavy-duty" feel of a '70s SG but the "sweet/boutique" sound of a '57 Classic loaded Future Tribute.
In 2013, Gibson was running multiple "Decade Tributes" at once. This very guitar was likely a factory crossover. Because the '70s Tribute and the Future Tribute shared the same finishes (Satin Vintage Sunburst), a worker grabbed an SG neck that had been carved with a '70s volute, but then "dressed" it with the Future Tribute's premium '57 Classic pickups, Grover tuners, and a '70s nameplate.
Why this is a "Win" for you:
The Best of Both Worlds: You have the structurally stronger neck (thanks to the volute) and the "cool factor" of the '70s styling, but you have the significantly better pickups ('57 Classics vs. the polarizing Dirty Fingers).
Authentication: The fact that the serial number (120730511) matches the headstock AND the inspection card perfectly proves this isn't a fake or a home-made mod. It left Nashville exactly like this.
Rarity: While not a "million-dollar" rarity, factory hybrids like this are highly sought after by Gibson enthusiasts because they are unique "transition" pieces.
The Summary: we have here an SG Future Tribute built on a '70s Tribute platform: 24-fret 70's thick neck with Future high-spec (57 Classic Zebra pickups), authentic Gibson USA guitar with a great story.
Why It's Collectable:
Limited Production Window: The Tribute series with these specific "decade-dedicated" specs was primarily a limited run for 2013.
"One-off" Unique Features: 70's 24-fret fingerboard (rare for an SG) and the period-correct volute make it stand out from standard production SGs.
The best Gibson high end humbucker pickups from the whole range: 57 Classic Zebra.
Aesthetic Appeal: The combination of Vintage Sunburst, "witch hat" knobs, and no pickguard is very evocative of the 1970s era and is sought after by fans of that specific look.
Please do me a favor: don't buy it so I can keep it ;)
I also could consider a trade with another electric guitar or tube amp so offers are super welcome.
THANK YOU!