Hi Mark -
BIG ES-175 fan here... I've also done Bigsby installs on two ES-135's, an ES-125TDC, an ES-225-TD, an ES-5,
THREE ES-175's, and a '64 Gretsch Double Annie. I've also installed numerous Bigsbys on a bunch of Fender and Gibson
solid body guitars - including B-5's, B-6's, B-7's etc. I intend on going to my grave with my '54 ES-175D, so no one
could dissuade me from adding a B6 to my guitar! lol... My main guitars and only electrics are 50's ES175D & 225TD
and a 50's reissue 175D w/ P-90's. All of which have Bigsbys.
Moving forward... The B6 is the ideal Bigsby for an ES-175. No drilling on the top of the guitar, nice tension on the
spring / strings, etc. However, the mounting pattern for the screws does not match up with the original tailpiece.
So you gotta drill at least 1 or 2 holes to install a Bigsby B6 on a non-Bigsby Gibson. Trust me, I've done it
numerous times. Yep, the strap button can be problematic... In my case I took it out and replaced with a Schaller
strap lock button on every guitar.
You can do whatever you want with the bridge... a properly cut ABR-1 is perfectly fine. Others prefer a roller bridge.
I like the ABR-1's and have never had any issues with tuning or setup. Just get the bridge & nut slots filed properly
and you're good to go. On a '53, I'd go for an original 50's Bigsby and compensated aluminum bridge.
Either way, good luck and post some pics!!!
p.s. I must say, as much as I love the old Gretsch's, there ain't no Gretsch on the planet that can compare to an
ES-175 with P-90's! )