Gretsch Guitars

Friedrich Gretsch founded, Gretsch Guitars in 1883, when he opened his shop in Brooklyn, New York. This little shop produced and sold banjos, tambourines, drums and guitars. With his priority of hand-craftsmanship, and commitment to quality, Gretsch had created many new designs and manufacturing techniques, creating instruments that get high praises from many famous artists.

In fact, today the Gretsch family of instruments is among the favorite of many musicians and recording artists. Over the years, the Gretsch name became synonymous with quality workmanship and solid sounding instruments by many artists. There many who believe that the Gretsch Company gained most of its fame after Friederich’s, son Fred took it over in 1916. Fred Jr. was able to grow this company into one of the most well-known and prominent manufacturers of musical instruments.

The fifties and sixties were considered the best years for Gretsch Company, mainly because it was during this time; the company designed and introduced many unique and distinct models of guitars. Among the distinct models were the 6120 Nashville and White Falcon.

Debuting in 1954, the Gretsch 6120 Nashville, was introduced at a cost of $385 and was designed with many western decorations. These western decorations included etchings of cow’s heads and cacti in the block markers, and a big G branding it on the top. This particular guitar was the first in the Chet Atkins series of guitars manufactured by Gretsch Company.

Over time, there were many changes made to the 6120 Nashville, and one of those was the narrowing of the body of the guitar. It was narrowed from three inches to two. The Gretsch White Falcon guitar was introduced in 1955. Through the years many changes to the shape of its body and features have occurred. This particular style of guitar has been highly recognized as a big piece of rock and roll history.

The most famous features of the White Falcon are its large size of seventeen inches, and its distinct appearance. It has white paint, gold trim and an engraved falcon on the gold pick guard. Since its beginning in 1883,

Gretsch guitars and drums are among the number one preferred instruments of musicians and recording artists due to the high quality and craftsmanship of each instrument designed and manufactured. Today, Gretsch Company is best known for its manufacture of vintage and classic guitars and drums. The future is looking bright for this famous family business.