When it comes to guitars that blend vintage mojo with modern precision, few names carry as much weight as Gibson’s Murphy Lab. Nestled within Gibson’s Custom Shop, the Murphy Lab has become a go-to for players and collectors who crave that worn-in look and feel—without sacrificing performance. But how did it come to be, and what exactly makes a Murphy Lab guitar special?
Let’s take a look at the story behind this unique branch of Gibson and explore some of the standout models it offers.
A Brief History of the Murphy Lab
The Murphy Lab is named after Tom Murphy, a legendary figure in the guitar world. Tom started working with Gibson in the early 1990s and quickly made a name for himself as a master of aging guitars. His ability to replicate the natural wear and patina of vintage instruments became the stuff of legend. From buckle rash and lacquer checking to hardware tarnish, Murphy’s attention to detail helped establish a new standard for aged guitars.
After years of pioneering this craft and even leaving Gibson to do aging work independently, Tom Murphy returned to the company in 2020. That same year, Gibson launched the Murphy Lab as a specialized division within the Gibson Custom Shop. The idea was simple: create historically accurate, aged guitars that not only look and feel like vintage models, but also play like a dream straight out of the case.
What Sets Murphy Lab Guitars Apart?
Murphy Lab guitars go through a meticulous aging process that mirrors decades of natural wear. But it’s not just about looks—these guitars are built to vintage-correct specs using the finest materials and craftsmanship available.
Murphy Lab offers four distinct aging levels:
- Ultra Light Aging – Minimal lacquer checking, subtle patina.
- Light Aging – Some dings, wear on hardware, and light checking.
- Heavy Aging – Noticeable playwear, buckle rash, and deep checking.
- Ultra Heavy Aging – Intense wear, deep checking, heavy dings, and finish wear—like a real road warrior.
Each guitar is aged by hand, using techniques refined by Murphy and his team, making every instrument feel like a unique piece of history.
Standout Murphy Lab Models
The Murphy Lab isn’t just about Les Pauls (though they do plenty of those). Here are a few iconic models that show off the Lab’s range:
1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue
Arguably the crown jewel of the Murphy Lab lineup, this model replicates the legendary ’59 Burst down to the tiniest detail—flamed maple tops, hide glue construction, period-correct neck profiles, and of course, your choice of aging level. For many, it’s the ultimate Les Paul.
1964 ES-335 Reissue
A semi-hollow gem with beautifully aged binding, lacquer checking, and that unmistakable vintage tone. From smoky jazz clubs to rock stages, this one’s got all the vibe.
1961 SG Standard Reissue
Sharp horns, lightweight body, and vintage-correct finishes that look like they’ve survived a decade on tour. Add some Murphy Lab checking and you’ve got a snarling, soulful classic.
1954 Les Paul Custom “Black Beauty”
This tuxedo of tone gets the Murphy Lab treatment with aged ebony finish, gold hardware wear, and an Alnico/P-90 pickup combo that’s as sweet as it is savage.
1957 Les Paul Goldtop
From the greening of the gold finish to the gentle checking across the top, this PAF-equipped Goldtop feels like it’s lived a life—right out of the box.
Why Players Love Murphy Lab Guitars
For some players, vintage originals are out of reach—or too precious to gig with. Murphy Lab guitars offer a perfect middle ground: the look, feel, and tonal character of a vintage piece, with the reliability and consistency of a modern Custom Shop build.
They’re instruments built to inspire, and for many, they spark that same love affair you get when you pick up a guitar that’s been there. Whether you’re a collector, a tone chaser, or just someone who loves great guitars, the Murphy Lab is Gibson’s nod to its past—crafted for the players of today.
Final Thoughts
Gibson’s Murphy Lab isn’t just a marketing gimmick—it’s a tribute to the heritage and soul of some of the most iconic guitars ever made. With Tom Murphy at the helm, the Lab continues to push the envelope on what’s possible in vintage recreation.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a ’59 Burst or a perfectly worn Goldtop, Murphy Lab might just be the closest thing to time travel.
