1966 Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean Natural, Good, GigBag, $2,399.00

Based on looks alone this ranks among the coolest guitars in the shop, and fortunately, it plays and sounds just as good as it looks. Unlike earlier 6119s which had the traditional big box body, true f-holes, and a single FilterTron, this 1966 Tennessean has a slimmed down body, painted f-holes, and a pair of HiLo-Tron pickups. Although the f-holes are painted, the body is fully hollow and it has a wonderful resonance, whether you’re plugged in at the gig or just noodling on the sofa.

Aside from a missing pickguard, this Gretsch is 100% stock. The original frets have some wear but no significant denting. Notes ring clear up and down the fingerboard. There are some minor dings and scratches befitting a guitar of this age, and the heel cap is deteriorated and partially missing. The fingerboard is exceptionally clean and well grained with vintage frets and cool half moon fret markers. The top binding is intact and looking sharp. Overall the guitar is in good to very good vintage condition. It has the kind of honest wear that only adds to its vibey charm.

What really sets this guitar apart is its glorious patina. The wood has the toasty glow of an antique furniture piece and the metal of the tuners, pickups, and Bigsby tailpiece have a brushed nickel look. Custom shops and luthiers do their best to mimic the natural aging process, but nothing beats the real thing. Check out the photos.

DETAILS
Year: 1966

Make: Gretsch

Model: 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean

Serial: 126217

Finish: Natural

Case: Gig bag

Weight: 7 pounds 1 ounce

Condition: Good to very good vintage condition

Modifications: Missing pickguard

Comments: Custom shops and luthiers do their best to mimic the natural aging process, but nothing beats the real thing. Check out the photos.