Produced during an interesting transitional period in Gretsch history, this 1954 Gretsch Electro II sits between two closely related versions of the company’s 6192 model. The Electro II was produced from 1951 to 1954, before the same basic model was reintroduced as the Country Club in 1955, retaining the 6192 designation. This guitar appears to have been built around that crossover point, combining block fingerboard inlays associated with the Electro II with a headstock lacking the usual Synchromatic decal. Taken together, we believe this is a transitional 6192 that left the factory as specifications for the model were beginning to change.
The guitar retains its original period character throughout, including the two pickups, which have previously been removed from the body but appear correct and original for the period. It is also fitted with a period correct Space Control bridge, although it is difficult to establish whether this is the original bridge, as Gretsch was also using the Melita design at the time. The body features the full sized hollow construction and striking appearance that would later become closely associated with the Country Club.
This guitar is in generally good condition for its age. There have been some repairs to the body binding, which are entirely unsurprising on a Gretsch of this period. The treble side F hole cut out has also dropped slightly. There appears to be no associated issue with the internal bracing, and we would therefore assume this to be the result of an environmental or storage issue at some point rather than a structural problem. The original style truss rod cover has been replaced, and the guitar is supplied with a non original case.
This guitar has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop and includes a 2 year warranty.
