1967 Gretsch Country Gentleman

There always seems to be a fair amount of confusion between the three major Gretsch Chet Atkins models. It’s common to hear any Chet models referred to as a “Country Gentleman” in guitar lore, as folks often mistakenly label the 6120/ Nashville (a 16″ lower bout guitar that has gone through several variations but is almost always finished in the lovely “western Orange” shade) or Tennessean (a 16″ single cutaway model finished in red or walnut) as Gents.

The Country Gentleman itself has a 17″ lower bout and walnut shaded finish, began life in 1957 as a single cutaway guitar, but by 1961 took on the iconic double cutaway design. George Harrison was seen playing a ’62 Gent when the Beatles made their live US TV debut on the Ed Sullivan show in 1964, making this model one of the most widely seen and heard electric guitars of the 1960’s. By the time George appeared with his early model, Gretsch had already replaced the bridge pickup with a hotter Super Tron pickup in the neck position, among other aesthetic changes. Due to the wide exposure, the (very expensive) Country Gentleman became a top selling guitar during the mid ’60’s.

By the time this beautiful ’67 model was built, Gretsch had reverted back to the dual Filter Tron pickups (just like George’s). Beatle guitar collectors pay big bucks for EXACT year models that The Beatles used, and a ’62 Gent can easily sell for 5 figures in exceptional condition. However, those who want to get the same type of tones as heard on With The Beatles can save thousands by picking up a ’67-’70 Gent. These guitars have a gorgeous, clear tone with a strong midrange growl. Unfortunately, the celluloid used for the binding has a strong tendency to outgas and crumble; fortunately the binding on this guitar has survived very well and the color has retained a beautiful, unfaded hue as well. This guitar is priced at $3400 at Southside Guitars.

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