Gretsch
Since 1883
Gretsch was founded in 1883 by Friedrich Gretsch, a German immigrant, in Brooklyn, New York. Initially producing banjos, tambourines, and drums, Gretsch introduced its first guitars in 1926 and rose to prominence in the 1950s with iconic models like the White Falcon and 6120 Chet Atkins. After a period under Baldwin ownership (1967-1985), the Gretsch family reacquired the brand. In 2002, Gretsch partnered with Fender for manufacturing and distribution. Today, Gretsch offers Professional Collection (Japan), Electromatic, and Streamliner series, plus USA Custom Shop instruments, maintaining its legendary status in rockabilly, country, and rock.
143
Years in Business
2M+
Guitars Sold
$80M+
Annual Revenue
Complete Gretsch Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Gretsch guitars.
Gretsch Price Overview
Gretsch covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$1,450
+5% vs last year
eBay Listings
3,200
Active listings
Sold This Month
890
+7% vs last month
Price Range
$250-$25,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Gretsch Timeline
Company Founded
Friedrich Gretsch, a 27-year-old German immigrant, established the company in Brooklyn, New York, producing banjos and drums.
Fred Gretsch Sr. Takes Over
After Friedrich's sudden death, 15-year-old Fred Gretsch Sr. assumed leadership and expanded the company significantly.
First Gretsch Guitars
Gretsch introduced its first branded guitars, diversifying from drums and banjos.
White Falcon Debut
Introduced the iconic White Falcon at NAMM show, positioning it as 'the finest guitar we know how to make'.
Chet Atkins 6120
Launched the 6120 Chet Atkins signature model, which became one of the most influential guitars in rock and country.
Country Gentleman
Introduced the Country Gentleman model, later made famous by George Harrison of The Beatles.
Baldwin Acquisition
Fred Gretsch Jr. sold the company to Baldwin Manufacturing, beginning a troubled era.
Production Ceases
Baldwin ceased Gretsch guitar production after quality issues and factory fires.
Family Reacquisition
Fred W. Gretsch III reacquired the company, returning it to family ownership.
Production Resumes
Gretsch resumed large-scale guitar production, focusing on reissues of classic models.
Fender Partnership
Gretsch entered partnership with Fender for manufacturing and distribution while family retained ownership.
Japan Production
High-quality Professional Collection production began at Terada factory in Japan.
Complete Gretsch Product Lineup
Gretsch: That Great Gretsch Sound since 1883 - from Brooklyn to the world stage
Professional Collection
Japan-made premium instruments
Flagship hollowbody at $4,000-$5,500
Iconic hollowbody at $3,000-$3,700
Double-cutaway classic at ~$3,100
Modern Chet Atkins evolution at ~$2,800
Professional solidbody at $2,500-$2,800
Players Edition
Japan-made modern performance features
Modern solidbody at $2,199-$2,799
Semi-hollow classic at $2,199-$2,299
Updated classic at ~$3,100
Full hollowbody at ~$2,500
Electromatic Collection
Accessible Gretsch quality
Entry solidbody at $399
Full-featured Jet at $629-$699
Semi-hollow at $799-$999
Affordable hollowbody at $799-$999
Solid body modern design at ~$599
Streamliner Collection
Budget-friendly Gretsch styling
Entry solidbody at $299-$399
Semi-hollow value at $449-$549
Affordable hollowbody at $399-$499
USA Custom Shop
Handcrafted American masterpieces
USA-made flagship at $7,000-$10,000
Masterbuilt solidbody at $7,400-$8,400
Vintage-spec recreation at ~$6,800
Handcrafted Chet Atkins tribute
"Gretsch: That Great Gretsch Sound since 1883 - from Brooklyn to the world stage"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
Professional Collection Buying Guide
Japan Quality Standards
Built at Terada factory with exceptional fit and finish; TV Jones or High Sensitive Filter'Tron pickups standard on most models
Model Selection
6120: Iconic Chet Atkins tone. White Falcon: Ultimate showpiece. Country Gentleman: George Harrison legacy. Jet: Solidbody power
Hardware Considerations
Most models include Bigsby vibrato; verify setup quality—Bigsby requires proper string break angle for tuning stability
Electromatic Collection Buying Guide
Value Proposition
Excellent build quality at $400-$1,000; authentic Gretsch features including Broad'Tron humbuckers and proper binding
Pickup Evolution
2024+ models: PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers with coil-splitting. Pre-2024: Broad'Tron BT-2S/BT-3S—both excellent
Center-Block Benefits
Center-block models offer hollowbody aesthetics with feedback resistance—ideal for higher-gain playing
Vintage Gretsch Buying Guide
Era Identification
1950s-1967 (Brooklyn/original): Most valuable. Baldwin era (1967-1981): Variable quality. Post-1989: Consistent quality resumes
Common Issues
Check binding shrinkage (common on 1960s models), pickup functionality, and Bigsby wear—these affect playability and value
Authentication
Verify serial numbers, inspect label inside f-holes, check for replacement parts—original Filter'Trons add significant value