Gibson “Custom SJ-200 Monarch #100 Brazilian Rosewood” Short Film

Introducing the Gibson Custom SJ-200 Monarch #100 Brazilian Rosewood—a one-of-a-kind acoustic masterpiece and the most prestigious version of Gibson’s world-famous Super Jumbo ever built. In this exclusive Gibson TV feature, Don Ruffatto at Gibson Custom in Bozeman, Montana, walks you through the evolution and historic significance of this prestigious acoustic guitar. Originally derived from the legendary SJ-200 first introduced in 1937, the Monarch represents the ultimate expression of that acoustic icon.

To commemorate the creation of the 100th Monarch, Gibson Custom in Bozeman, Montana, channeled decades of skill, artistry, and innovation into what Don Ruffatto calls “the ultimate Gibson acoustic guitar to date.” Handcrafted by Gibson Custom’s most experienced luthiers, this one-of-a-kind instrument represents the collective effort of many hands—every element of the guitar is built by hand. Each piece of wood is carefully hand-selected and hand-sanded to its final thickness, the neck is hand-shaped, and the internal braces are meticulously hand-scalloped. Every detail, from the pickguard to the tuning pegs, has been carefully considered. The guitar also features Brazilian rosewood throughout—from its three-piece back and sides to its fingerboard, bridge, decorative inlays, and internal elements—reviving a legendary tonewood that Gibson Acoustic has not used in more than two decades.

The guitar is adorned with fine materials, including abalone, mother-of-pearl, and 18-karat gold. Highlights include a crown peghead inlay designed by Montana jeweler Sam Ferraro, featuring nine inset diamonds, gold-plated bridge pins topped with diamonds, and a pickguard adorned with an abalone border and dots. The top edge is wrapped in 14-karat gold vermeil, and every edge and seam is carefully detailed.

Inside, the guitar is marked with a custom Brazilian rosewood label, while the rear of the peghead features an engraved serial number set in a scroll of mother-of-pearl. Even the case is hand-built from leather and embroidered to match the instrument’s elegance—accompanied by a flame maple presentation panel signed by every person who helped build it. Individually and sequentially numbered, the Gibson Custom SJ-200 Monarch #100 Brazilian Rosewood is the most dynamic, intricate, and prestigious acoustic guitar Gibson has ever produced—truly the ultimate SJ-200. Truly a one-of-a-kind collector’s piece that needs to be played and enjoyed.

Price Tag: $99,999