? Model Overview: 1990 Gibson ES-335 Dot (Model 445) in Ebony
Though colloquially known as the "Dot 445" due to the model number and characteristic dot inlays, this guitar is essentially a reissue of the original ES-335, which debuted in 1958. The 1990 model stayed faithful to the classic semi-hollowbody design but benefited from modern-era improvements.
?️ Specifications (1990 ES-335 Dot Reissue – Ebony)
Body:
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Construction: Semi-hollow with solid centre block
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Top/Back/Sides: Laminated maple (ply), with maple/poplar/maple layers
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Bracing: Spruce centre block (to reduce feedback and add sustain)
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Finish: High-gloss nitrocellulose lacquer in Ebony
Neck:
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Wood: Mahogany
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Profile: Rounded "C" (medium thickness – not the slimmer 60s style, nor the chunky 50s)
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Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 frets
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Inlays: Pearloid dots (hence “Dot”)
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Scale length: 24.75" (628 mm)
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Nut width: 1.68" (approx. 42.7 mm)
Hardware:
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Bridge: Tune-O-Matic (ABR-1 style)
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Tailpiece: Stopbar tailpiece
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Tuners: Gibson Deluxe (Kluson-style)
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Hardware colour: Nickel
Electronics:
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Pickups: Gibson ‘57 Classic humbuckers
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Controls: 2 x volume, 2 x tone, 3-way toggle selector
? Build Quality (1990 Era Context)
By 1990, Gibson had recently emerged from the Norlin era (late 1969–1985), a time often criticised for inconsistent quality and corporate decision-making. The late 1980s into the early 1990s marked a significant quality resurgence, particularly at the historic Memphis and Nashville facilities.
Build Highlights:
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Craftsmanship: Improved consistency in neck joints, binding, fretwork, and lacquer finishing.
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Neck shape & playability: The necks from this era were praised for being comfortable and well-finished, with clean fret dressing.
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Pickups: The switch to ‘57 Classics around this time marked a return to P.A.F.-inspired tone — warm, articulate, and responsive.
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Finish quality: Nitro lacquer application was glossy and durable but thin enough to allow the guitar to "breathe," which vintage purists appreciated.
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Weight and resonance: Excellent balance thanks to the maple laminate construction and spruce centre block. Ebony finishes tended to hide the grain but looked sharp and professional.
?️ Reception in 1990
Reviewers:
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Music magazines such as Guitar Player and Guitar World gave positive reviews of the ES-335 Dot Reissue, often highlighting it as a return to form for Gibson.
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It was noted for being versatile across genres — blues, jazz, rock, and country — and for capturing much of the vintage ES-335 vibe at a time when demand for "authentic reissues" was growing.
Players:
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Blues and jazz guitarists gravitated to its warm, smooth sustain and responsive dynamics.
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Rock players found it capable of delivering bite and crunch without losing clarity, especially through British-style amps (Vox/Marshall).
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It was considered an aspirational instrument — expensive, but not out of reach for serious amateurs and professionals alike.
? Legacy and Reputation
Legacy:
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These early '90s Dot Reissues are now viewed as part of Gibson's modern "golden reissue era", particularly pre-Custom Shop standardisation.
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The Ebony finish was less common than the classic Cherry or Sunburst, and is now sought after for its sleek, elegant look.
Market Value & Collector Interest:
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They're viewed as excellent alternatives to late-50s/early-60s originals, delivering much of the tone and vibe at a fraction of the cost.
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Favoured by modders and vintage purists alike, especially when kept close to factory spec.
Summary
The 1990 Gibson ES-335 Dot (445) in Ebony represents a high point in post-Norlin Gibson production, combining vintage-inspired design with the improved quality control of the early 1990s. Well-regarded by players and reviewers at the time, its reputation has only grown, with many considering it an underrated gem of the reissue era. Its versatility, classy aesthetics, and historical positioning make it a serious contender for both stage and studio even today.
