Number 3 from the legendary Collectors Choice series called “The Babe” is the exact replica of Joe Bonamassa's original 1960 Bigsby Les Paul. As expected, the Gibson Custom Shop gave serial number 001 of this 300-piece limited series directly to Joe Bonamassa, the owner of the original '60s Paula. And over the years Joe played this guitar at hundreds of concerts and also used it for studio recordings (as evidenced by the enclosed letter from Joe Bonamassa and the attached photo documentation with many pictures). But one day he decided to sell it to finance the purchase of a '63 Telecaster, making it available to the public. So today we are extremely pleased to be able to offer you this musical icon in absolute collector's condition and with numerous case candies. Although it is actually a 1960s reissue it has a typical 59s neck profile, i.e. not an ultra-thin Slim Taper. It is super pleasant and comfortable to whizz across the fingerboard. The aging is rather discreet in keeping with the original. Only a few subtle dings and dongs can be seen on the partially matt sunburst finish. For a Les Paul with Bigsby vibrato it also has an extremely pleasant weight of just 4330 grams. Apart from the great look, to which the black and chrome Bigsby also contributes, which is why Joe nicknamed the Les Paul “Batman”, this vibrato kit gives the player yet another way to influence the guitar sound in many different ways. And as expected the sound of this Paula is convincing across the board. Fat tone, endless sustain, pearly clean sounds, wonderfully smacking when distorted. Whether Rock, Jazz or Blues - this Les Paul feels at home everywhere! And as a special treat the future owner will also receive the aforementioned letter from Joe Bonamassa and photo documentation, handsigned sheet music of his songs and two DVDs of his concerts in London where he played Babe #001. Can a collector's heart beat any faster?incl. original case, certificate, hangtags, letter from Joe Bonamassa, photo documentation, handsigned sheet music, two “Tour de Force” DVDsweight: 4330 gramssubject to differential taxation