Gretsch 6128 Duo Jet (1953)

Gretsch's answer to the Gibson Les Paul, the 6128 Duo Jet marked a major step forward in the NY builder's iconic guitar making legacy.

This 1953 Gretsch 6128 Duo Jet is 1 of 150 "first batch" examples built by Gretsch as part of the original launch of the model, and one of the last of the 119xx serial numbers attributed to these historic guitars. What makes the earliest Duo Jets stand out from the rest? The use of the "script" logo, a carryover from Gretsch's guitars a decade or so prior. These script logo Duo Jets have affectionately been coined "Scripty Jets" by collectors and vintage Gretsch enthusiasts.

With its chambered Mahogany body, Nitron-topped Black finish, twin Dearmond Dynasonic pickups, and large pearl block fingerboard inlays, the Duo Jet made as big a statement as Gibson's Les Paul did just a year prior. The tuxedo look is a hallmark of the Duo Jet, as evidenced in its continued production 70 years later. The Collings 470JL carries on that lineage in a boutique format as well. This is a particularly clean example, and completely original throughout. From the metal button Waverly tuners and Melita bridge to the electronics, pickguard, blank-top knobs, and Gretsch tailpiece, it shows very little wear for an instrument this age.

The Dynasonics - perhaps some of the most celebrated single coil guitar pickups ever produced - have an impressive amount of output, with beautiful clear low end, great midrange, and a top end that really makes these pickups stand out. The pickups are wired out of phase in the middle position from the factory, and the tone is still particularly strong albeit with the unique hollow honk that often occurs in these instances.

The neck has a nice full C profile with a lean taper that definitely aligns with what we're used to finding on similar era electrics from Gretsch (and Gibson). The chambered Mahogany body is not only lightweight and acoustically responsive, but it has an impressive amount of sustain. The unplugged playing experience is wonderful, and translates seamlessly into an amp. Clean or dirty, the tone is just fantastic!

The guitar is accompanied by its original tweed hardshell case - also in excellent condition - with fully working latches and a healthy handle.

As far as vintage Gretsches go, does it get any cooler than a Duo Jet? Opinions may vary, but this Scripty deserves to be in the conversation!

On Consignment.