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Description

Step back in time with the 1957 Gretsch 6120, a classic icon that continues to captivate guitar enthusiasts and musicians alike. Renowned for its unique blend of vintage charm and modern playability, this solid body electric guitar was originally designed with input from the legendary Chet Atkins, offering a sound that's as iconic as its history. The absence of the "G" brand on the body and the introduction of humptop fretboard inlays mark the 1957 model as a pivotal year in the 6120's evolution, making it a must-have for collectors and performers seeking authenticity and exceptional tone.

Crafted with a meticulous eye for detail, the 1957 Gretsch 6120 features a resonant maple body that delivers a bright, articulate sound with a warmth that has become synonymous with Gretsch guitars. The dual DynaSonic pickups offer a versatile range of tones, from clear, jangly highs to robust, growling lows, ensuring that each note sings with clarity and precision. Whether you're channeling the rockabilly spirit of the '50s or exploring new sonic territories, the 6120 provides a platform for endless creativity.

Perfect for stage or studio, this guitar's timeless design and unparalleled sound quality have earned it a place in the annals of music history. Embrace the legacy of the 1957 Gretsch 6120 and experience a piece of musical heritage that has inspired generations.

Key Features:

  • Humptop fretboard inlays
  • Dual DynaSonic pickups
  • Resonant maple body
  • Collaboration with Chet Atkins for design input

Product specs

Brand Gretsch
Model 6120 Chet Atkins Hollow Body
Finish Orange
Year 1957
Made In United States
Categories Archtop Electric Guitars, Hollow Body Guitars
Artist Chet Atkins
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Orange
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gretsch Nashville
Model Sub-Family Gretsch Chet Atkins Nashville
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.5"
Series Gretsch Artist Signature
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of music is the 1957 Gretsch 6120 best suited for?

The 1957 Gretsch 6120 is ideal for rockabilly, country, and jazz music due to its warm, resonant tone and hollow body design. Its association with artists like Chet Atkins and Eddie Cochran highlights its suitability for these genres.

What is the neck profile of the 1957 Gretsch 6120 like?

The 1957 Gretsch 6120 features a comfortable, rounded neck profile, making it easy to play for extended periods. This design is particularly favored by guitarists who appreciate a traditional feel.

Does the 1957 Gretsch 6120 have a tremolo system?

Yes, the 1957 Gretsch 6120 is equipped with a tremolo tailpiece, allowing for expressive pitch modulation. This feature is perfect for adding subtle vibrato or dramatic pitch shifts to your playing.

What kind of pickups does the 1957 Gretsch 6120 have?

The 1957 Gretsch 6120 is equipped with two single-coil pickups, known for their clear and bright sound. These pickups are ideal for achieving the classic tones associated with rockabilly and early rock 'n' roll.

Is the 1957 Gretsch 6120 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the 1957 Gretsch 6120 is well-suited for live performances, offering a distinctive look and sound that stands out on stage. Its hollow body construction provides excellent resonance and projection.

What is the scale length of the 1957 Gretsch 6120?

The 1957 Gretsch 6120 features a 24.5-inch scale length, which contributes to its warm tone and comfortable playability. This scale length is ideal for players who prefer a slightly shorter neck.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1957 Gretsch 6120 | Norman's Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1957 Gretsch 6120 | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1957 Gretsch 6120 | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1957 Gretsch 6120 | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1957 Gretsch 6120 | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1957 Gretsch 6120 played by Ariel Posen by Carter Vintage Guitars

1957 Gretsch 6120 played by Ariel Posen

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for Carter Vintage Guitars - JD Simo - 1957 Gretsch 6120 by Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars - JD Simo - 1957 Gretsch 6120

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1957 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1957 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for Gretsch Chet Atkins 6120 G-Brand from 1957 presented by Vintage-Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gretsch Chet Atkins 6120 G-Brand from 1957 presented by Vintage-Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Video thumbnail for 1957 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollow Body Electric Guitar played by Chase Potter // SOUND CHECK by Retrofret Vintage Guitars

1957 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollow Body Electric Guitar played by Chase Potter // SOUND CHECK

Retrofret Vintage Guitars

Retrofret Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1957 Gretsch 6120 - "The World of Vintage Guitars" Reeperbahn Festival Edition by No.1 Guitar Center

1957 Gretsch 6120 - "The World of Vintage Guitars" Reeperbahn Festival Edition

No.1 Guitar Center

No.1 Guitar Center

Reviews

Critic Reviews

1957 Gretsch Chet Atkins Hollowbody 6120 - Premier Guitar

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Artist usage

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See how Ritchie Valens uses 1957 Gretsch 6120

Ritchie Valens

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Orange Year: 1950s

In the clip from the movie Go, Johnny Go, Ritchie Valens is seen playing a 1957 Gretsch 6120, as evidenced by the video shared by the YouTube user "the rockabillie" in the performance of "Ooh My Head" featuring Chuck Berry and Alan Freed.

See how Dave Cobb uses 1957 Gretsch 6120

Dave Cobb

Music Producer

Robert Randolph & The Family Band

...
Verified via YouTube

At 22:53 he talked about this buying guitar

See how Anssi Kela uses 1957 Gretsch 6120

Anssi Kela

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture, Anssi is holding his main guitar (source, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8Kz9wdv0oE&t: 8.09), a 1957 Gretsch 6120.

I bought it in the end of 2001 as a gift for an excellent tour to myself from London.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1957 Gretsch 6120, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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