Gibson Melody Maker D 1962

Here at Tom’s Guitar Shop in the heart of Greenwich Market, we’ve always had a soft spot for Melody Makers — and this 1962 Gibson Melody Maker is exactly why. Light, vibey, and full of that raw, no-nonsense charm that made these guitars a favourite for garage rockers, punk players, and tone purists alike.

This one’s the real deal from Gibson’s golden era — single cutaway, slab mahogany body, short tenon neck joint, and a single straight-to-the-point Melody Maker pickup that delivers that dry, snappy bark with plenty of bite. Whether you’re into gritty blues, crunchy indie riffs, or just want a stripped-back vintage tone machine, this thing nails it.

It’s had a life (as it should!), but it’s in great shape overall — all original bar a couple of small bits: the tuners have been upgraded for better stability (originals long gone). Frets are healthy, action’s dialled in, and it plays beautifully up and down the neck.

The finish has worn in all the right ways — honest vintage wear that gives it that played-in look and feel without being relic’d. It’s light as a feather too — a joy to sling on your shoulder for a long set or session.

Specs at a glance:

• Model: Gibson Melody Maker
• Year: 1962
• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany, slim 60’s profile
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Pickup: Original Melody Maker single-coil
• Bridge: Wraparound
• Tuners: Upgraded (originals not present)
• Finish: Original nitro, naturally worn
• Condition: Vintage player-grade — honest wear, upgraded tuners, no breaks
• Case: Original — worn

These early ‘60s Melody Makers are getting harder to find in this kind of condition — they’ve got a simplicity and tone that just works. Come down and give it a go — we think you’ll fall for its no-frills charm and vintage soul.