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Gretsch

1959 Gretsch Jet Firebird (6131) — With OHSC & Hang Tag

$ 8,500.00
$ 7,500.00 $ 8,500.00
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For your consideration Garrett Park Guitars presents this pristine 1959 Gretsch Jet Firebird (6131).

This Jet Firebrid in excellent condition, with its original case and hang tag, is indeed a rare and valuable find.
The 1959 Gretsch 6131 Jet Firebird is a single-cutaway, chambered electric guitar. This model year is a transitional one, known for incorporating both classic features and new design elements.
  • Finish and Body: The guitar features an "Oriental Red" finish on a maple top, which is set on a chambered mahogany body with a mahogany neck. The back, sides, and neck are finished in black with some overspray on the neck.
  • Neck and Fretboard: It has a one-piece mahogany neck with a 24.6-inch scale length, a bound ebony fingerboard, and Neo-Classic "thumbnail" inlays. It lacks the zero fret that was typically added around 1959.
  • Electronics: The 1959 model is known for having a pair of Gretsch Filter'Tron humbucking pickups which deliver a punchy, articulate sound. The controls include a three-way pickup selector, a three-way tone selector, individual pickup volume controls, and a master volume.
  • Hardware: It features chrome hardware, a Space Control bridge and a "G"-logo trapeze tailpiece. The tuners are open-back Grover tuners with butterfly buttons.
  • Case and Hang Tag: Original grey hardshell case with burgundy plush lining and the original blue "Quality Control" or "OK" hang tag. 
History of the Gretsch Guitar Company
The Gretsch Company was founded in 1883 by Friedrich Gretsch in Brooklyn, New York. It began by manufacturing banjos, drums, and tambourines before expanding into guitars. The company rose to prominence in the mid-20th century under the leadership of Fred Gretsch, becoming a major competitor to Fender and Gibson during the rock 'n' roll era. Gretsch guitars became known for their unique aesthetic designs, such as the use of sparkle finishes derived from their drum manufacturing, and their distinctive, twangy sound that appealed to country, rockabilly, and rock 'n' roll artists. The company went through various ownership changes and a hiatus in production before being acquired by Fender in the early 2000s, which led to a revival and faithful reissues of their classic models. 

Famous Players
The Gretsch Jet Firebird and its sibling models have been used by numerous influential musicians:
  • Malcolm Young: The late AC/DC rhythm guitarist used a modified 1963 Firebird Red Jet, nicknamed "The Beast," which was a cornerstone of the band's hard rock sound.
  • Bo Diddley: The pioneering rock 'n' roll artist prominently featured a 1957 Jet Firebird on his early album covers and performances.
  • Neil Finn: The frontman of Crowded House and co-founder of Split Enz has used a 1955 Gretsch Jet Firebird model for his signature clean, articulate tones.
  • Brian Setzer: The leader of the Stray Cats is known for using a variety of Gretsch models, including the Jet Firebird, to achieve his punchy, rockabilly sound.
  • Mike Campbell: The guitarist for Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers is known to have a 1956 Firejet.