The Gibson Pickup Shop and Murphy Lab collaborate on the most accurate recreations ever of arguably the ultimate guitar pickup, the late-1950s “Patent Applied For” humbucker
Gibson has announced the launch of the 1959 Humbucker Collector’s Edition Series 2 pickups—a limited-edition set that promises to offer the most historically accurate recreations of the original “Patent Applied For” humbuckers™ ever made. Crafted by the Gibson Pickup Shop in Nashville in collaboration with the artisans of the Murphy Lab, these pickups follow in the footsteps of the Series 1 units released in January 2024.
Jared Brandon, Product Manager (Pickups), says, “We wanted to have the Murphy Lab involved with giving these pickup sets a beautiful patina to honor the look of the most desired pickups today. The Series 2 1959 Collector’s Edition Humbucker pickup set is designed to not only deliver the most accurate version of an original 1959 pickup but also to look the part, with aging.
“The Murphy Lab has taken the time to meticulously age the pickups to blend in perfectly with the newer aged and original guitars. We took extra time to match each pickup together as a set to ensure the perfect aged set. The pickups will continue to age according to your playing regimen.”
Image: The first aftermarket Murphy Lab-aged pickups
The original “Patent Applied For” humbuckers from the 1950s are revered as the holy grail of guitar tone, inspiring countless imitations over the decades. Gibson has gone to extraordinary lengths to recreate these legendary pickups, employing 3D scanning, scientific analysis, reverse engineering of original late 1950s examples, and archival specifications.
Limited to only 1,000 serialized sets worldwide
Exclusivity is a key feature of this release, with only 1,000 sets being made available. Each set is individually serialized with 1959-style numbering, adding a layer of authenticity and collectibility that will appeal to enthusiasts and collectors.
Crafted with vintage-accurate materials and techniques
Every component of the 1959 Humbucker Collector’s Edition Series 2 pickups has been meticulously crafted to mirror the originals. They feature Alnico 2 roughcast long magnets and 42 AWG plain enamel wire, and are unpotted to preserve the extended upper-harmonic response for which original “Patent Applied For” humbuckers are famed.
Featuring Murphy Lab-aged nickel covers and mounting rings
The pickups come with nickel True Historic covers and cream M69 mounting rings, with the covers masterfully aged by the Murphy Lab. This aging process gives them the look and feel of vintage pickups that have gracefully withstood the test of time.
Image: Gibson Limited-Edition 1959 Humbucker Collector’s Edition Series 2 pickups
The first aftermarket Murphy Lab-aged pickups
This release marks the first time Murphy Lab-aged pickups have become available as an aftermarket option. Previously, such aging was exclusive to select Gibson Custom guitars, making this a significant milestone for players seeking vintage aesthetics and tone.
The art of tone: Unpotted coils and Alnico 2 magnets
By utilizing unpotted coils and Alnico 2 magnets, these pickups deliver a sweet, woody, loud, and present tone that closely mirrors the sonic qualities of the originals. The unbalanced coils contribute to their unique tonal signature, offering a dynamic and responsive playing experience.
Packaged in a premium Lifton presentation case
Each set is presented in a high-quality Lifton™ case, adding an extra touch of luxury and protection. This premium packaging underscores the collector’s item status of these exceptional pickups.
Exclusive zebra butyrate bobbins and vintage wiring
The pickups feature zebra butyrate bobbins—vintage white on the slug sides and black on the screw sides. The use of 2-conductor wiring further enhances their vintage accuracy.
With the release of the 1959 Humbucker Collector’s Edition Series 2 pickups, Gibson continues to honor its rich heritage while providing modern musicians with the tools to achieve legendary tone. This limited-edition set is more than just a pair of aftermarket pickups; it’s a piece of history reborn.
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