2012 Gibson Custom Shop Historic Collection 1958 Les Paul Reissue Reliced Inspired by Slash '87 Standard "Jessica"

Thanks for the interest!

We also do commissioned guitar hunts on the Japanese market, so feel free to message us if you have something in mind or even if you are unsure. We can make recommendations that suit your taste to the best of our knowledge. 

Here we have a 2012 Gibson R8 that has been professionally refinished and reliced to look like Slash’s number one stage guitar, Jessica.

Although the craftsman would like to remain anonymous, his workshop is very reputable in Japan and the Japanese craftsmanship put into this work of art is simply amazing.

Of course, it goes without saying that the guitar has also been fitted with Slash’s signature Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pros.

However, since this guitar is based off of a Custom Shop R8, it is not an exact copy of Slash’s. There are minute difference, such as: the maple top is 2 piece, instead of Slash’s 3 piece, the inlays are more pointy, etc.

If you are a true Slash geek, you will know that Slash’s 1987 Gibson Les Paul Standard was actually a factory second which Gibson kept in their storage.

As for the Custom Shop Slash ’87 inspired run from 2008 (which now goes for upwards of $10,000), they were geared more towards collectors as most of them were usually heavy and the necks were much smaller. Also, the finish on those was not quite the same as Slash’s and closer to Amber than the faded Sunburst Slash had his refinished in.

On the other hand, this R8 weighs at around 8.1 lbs (4.0 kg), has better quality woods and historically accurate construction, as well as the thicker neck profile that Slash is now associated with.

Therefore, with all due respect, this R8 is arguably a better player than that 2008 run and perhaps even Slash’s original.

【Specs and condition】

Given the relic job, it is hard to say that the guitar is in “clean” condition, however, the relic job is superb. We feel that it is much on the same level with Murphy Labs.

No issues or repairs with the guitar at all and it plays amazingly. 

- 1 Piece Mahogany Body

- 2 Piece Maple Top

- Thicker Profile Mahogany Neck

- Seymour Duncan Slash Signature Alnico II Pros

- Original Frets with fret nibs

- ABR-1 Bridge

- Slash “Jessica” Inspired Paint and Relicing job in Faded Sunburst 

Comes with original hardcase and documentation as photographed.

【Personal Impressions】

It is a little less worn than what Jessica looks like today and the color is slightly more vibrant, but it is an amazing replica nonetheless.

The back of the neck is less worn, so that the relicing doesn’t get in the way of your playing.

It is extremely resonant and responsive with an almost “singing” quality.

The Slash tone is spot on, but it is of course versatile enough for other things as well.

Truly one of the best we’ve had in our shot and we bet that Slash himself would enjoy playing this one.

If you’re in a GnR cover band or are a collector who loves to play your guitars and not just showcase them, this is definitely the one for you.

Even if you are not a Slash fanatic, if he is one of your influences as a player, we think it’s an awesome concept for you to be able to write your own story and make your own memories on top of what “Jessica” already is.

Get it while it lasts!

For any further questions on specs and our personal opinions on how it feels, don’t hesitate to ask us.

Will be sending via EMS, very soundly packed.

Please note that we are not responsible for import duties/tax.

Second-hand items are sold as is due to our location, but we will do our very best to ensure you have the best buying experience possible and are open to partial refunds depending on the situation.

Please contact us for regions not listed if you are interested.

Thanks so much for considering!

Revival Music Japan by B.I.M.