Gretsch Instrument Buying & Used Sales

G6136 Black Falcon

Appraisal value: ¥220,000

6120W Nashville

Appraisal value: ¥130,000

6119 Tennessee Rose

Appraisal value: 120,000 yen

Founded in 1883, Gretsch began manufacturing instruments such as drums and banjos. In 1954, they launched the Chet Atkins model "6120," a guitar designed for country musicians.

Since then, renowned artists including Brian Setzer of the Stray Cats, as well as Japan's Kenichi Asai (BLANKEY JET CITY), Yusuke Chiba (The Birthday / THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT), and Ken Yokoyama (Hi-STANDARD) have favored Gretsch electric guitars, making it one of the most popular brands both domestically and internationally.

Gretsch guitars possess many instantly recognizable Gretsch characteristics. Their appeal lies not only in their distinctive body and headstock shapes, but also in their unique inlays and hardware, which have made them enduring icons for countless guitarists.

In recent years, approaches have been taken to enhance playability and ease of use, enabling the instrument to be incorporated into a wider range of genres. Mechanisms to reduce bridge movement and bracing structures have also evolved.
The Electromatic Series and other lineups that let you try Gretsch at an affordable price are another reason Gretsch appeals to such a wide audience.

Many Gretsch models feature the same full acoustic construction as the Gibson ES-175.
However, in terms of sound, it possesses a character entirely different from Gibson.

Gretsch guitars inherently possess country elements, resulting in a cleaner mid-to-low frequency response compared to Gibson. Their distinctive sound combines a unique hollow resonance with a lightness that defines their character.
Furthermore, by employing unique pickups like the Filter Tron and Hi-Lo Tron, it establishes a truly one-of-a-kind sound. Even when cranked up with heavy distortion settings, it never loses its character, allowing you to fully experience that quintessential Gretsch feel—which is, in my opinion, the real thrill of playing a Gretsch.

6120 Nashville, 6119 Tennessee Rose, White Falcon—while they may appear similar at first glance, their distinct details and specifications appeal to the discerning taste of those who choose them.
The 6119, famously favored by Kenichi Asai, features a dummy F-hole that minimizes feedback, demonstrating how different models vary not only in appearance but also in sound-related design choices.
That said, all models share that quintessential Gretsch sound character, making it easy to choose based purely on visual preference—another appealing aspect.
Additionally, non-semi-acoustic models like the Jet series also feature chambered bodies, delivering that signature Gretsch lightness and hollow resonance.
For those prioritizing maneuverability, choose the Jet.
For those who simply love a dazzling appearance, the White Falcon—often called the "world's most beautiful guitar"—is also highly recommended.