Vintage Guitars
I'm happy with this
This website uses cookies to personalise content and adverts, to provide social media features, and to analyse traffic. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. See terms and conditions
GRETSCH | VINTAGE ADVERTISEMENTS

Gretsch advertisement (1963)

The Famous Basie Rhythm & that Great Gretsch Sound

Gretsch Guitars

This advert for Gretsch guitars and drums highlights the Count Basie rhythm section of Freddie Green on guitar and Sonny Payne on drums. Freddie Green is pictured with the Gretsch Eldorado.

More

    Gretsch advertisement (1963) The Famous Basie Rhythm & that Great Gretsch Sound

    Other related vintage advertisements

    Gretsch Guitars - Guitarists go for the new Gretsch extras... See them in the new Gretsch guitar catalog
    Gretsch Guitars - Guitarists go for the new Gretsch extras... See them in the new Gretsch guitar catalog
    Advertisement for Gretsch's new (#31) catalog. This advert first appeared in print in the July 1963 edition of Down Beat magazine
    Gretsch Guitars - Everything Goes Greater On Gretsch
    Gretsch Guitars - Everything Goes Greater On Gretsch
    British advert for Gretsch guitars and drums. "Join the Gretsch Set for Great Sound
    Play the guitars and drums top recording stars prefer"
    Gretsch Guitars - Just Out! Gretsch Guitar Catalog
    Gretsch Guitars - Just Out! Gretsch Guitar Catalog
    This July 1965 advertisement from Gretsh announces the new 1965 catalog (see a scan here), or catalog #32.
    Gretsch Guitars - Gretsch Puts You in the Swing of Things
    Gretsch Guitars - Gretsch Puts You in the Swing of Things
    1966 UK advert for Gretsch guitars and drums; Gretsch makes the finest drums and guitars in the world, so when you join the Gretsch Set for Great Sound things suddenly begin to happen

    2024 Vintage Guitar price guide 2024 Vintage Guitar price guide

    Need the value of your guitar? The Official Vintage Guitar Magazine Price Guide 2024 is out now: Amazon


    Vintage guitar parts for sale
    Classic Bikes for Sale Classic Motorcycles For Sale
    Classic Cars for Sale Classic Cars For Sale

    Gretsch

    Vintageguitarandbass.com is funded by its visitors. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. For more info see terms and conditions.
    Gretsch 1967 Country Gentleman w /  Hardcase

    Gretsch 1967 Country Gentleman w / Hardcase

    Jenison, Michigan, 494**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $4000


    Good Gretsch 1967 Country Gentleman
    Condition
    Light wear: normal swirling and play wear on the finish, some small binding breaks around guitar, small crack in pickguard. Damage: None
    Description
    This 1967 Gretsch Chet Atkins Country Gentleman has it all: vintage looks; full, woody tone; and comfort! That's right: not only does this semi-hollow have an incredibly fat tone thanks to the pair of Gretsch Original Filtertrons; it also comes with an original back ... more
    eBay logo
    Vintage Gretsch B-6G Bigsby B-6 Tailpiece 1950s 1960s White Falcon Country Gent

    Vintage Gretsch B-6G Bigsby B-6 Tailpiece 1950s 1960s White Falcon Country Gent

    Chicago, Illinois, 606**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $595

    Vintage Correct Parts is proud to offer, for your consideration,
    A completely original and fantastic
    Vintage 1950's / 1960's Gretsch B-6G Tailpiece
    This is the real deal and quite rare. Correct for a host of high end Gretsch Guitars. Includes the original mounting screws and spring included.
    This one still has a decent amount of Gold left on it, these were notorious for fading fast!
    GET IT BACK TO STOCK, GET IT VINTAGE CORRECT
    WE SHIP WORLDWIDE!!!
    Check my feedback ... more
    eBay logo
    Used Gretsch Nashville Hollow Body w / String-Thru Bigsby - Midnight Sapphire

    Used Gretsch Nashville Hollow Body w / String-Thru Bigsby - Midnight Sapphire

    Winchester, Virginia, 226**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $2330

    ProAudioStar DJ GEAR INSTRUMENT GEAR LIVE SOUND RECORDING MICROPHONES HEADPHONES ACCESSORIES SOFTWARE LIGHTING BUNDLES Authorized Dealer
    Used Gretsch Nashville Hollow Body w / ... more
    eBay logo
    4 Gretsch Original 1970??s Guitar BODY BINDING FRAMES

    4 Gretsch Original 1970??s Guitar BODY BINDING FRAMES

    Scituate, Massachusetts, 020**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $650

    4 Gretsch Original 1970??s Guitar BODY BINDING FRAMES

    Lot of 4 guitar body binding frames!!

    Original and each one is one of a kind

    Handmade from wood by Gretash for use in the production on their guitar in the 1970??s

    Each one measures approximately 21?? long x 15?? tall x 7?? wide.

    Come directly from the Gretsch Family Archive

    Extremely rare factory items, so much history here

    Very good condition!! (See pics) ... more
    eBay logo
    Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean Vintage 1964 OHSC GREAT Condition Tennessee

    Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean Vintage 1964 OHSC GREAT Condition Tennessee

    Los Angeles, California, 900**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $4200


    This is a beautiful Gretsch Tennessean from 1964 I believe and NOT a reissue. Everything looks to be original including the case. This guitar plays like butter and has that sweet jangly tone of a vintage gretsch and that nasty rock-a-billy kick. She screams with the best. The neck is on the thicker side (but not chunky) and just feels like home in your hands. The fretboard is a beautiful rosewood and I can only guess this, that it feels soft and silky like that rare rosewood from brazil they... more
    eBay logo
    1957 Gretsch Streamliner - Very Clean - Clean Original Hardshell Case w / Hangtag

    1957 Gretsch Streamliner - Very Clean - Clean Original Hardshell Case w / Hangtag

    Henderson, Nevada, 890**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $2500

    Super clean and all original blond Beauty! Case is as clean as the guitar! Plays and sounds perfecto and an affordable vintage guitar for a change
    WE SHIP WORLDWIDE. Contact us with your full address for a shipping quote
    The shipping price includes full insurance. We only ship on Tuesdays and Saturdays We have a no fee discount
    We buy guitars for top dollar
    Experience:
    AJ's Music and Vintage guitars is avery reputable and long standing specialty Guitar shop; originallyfrom ... more
    eBay logo
    1956 Gretsch 6131 Jet firebird Red

    1956 Gretsch 6131 Jet firebird Red

    Nazareth, Pennsylvania, 180**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $14500

    Just in is this incredibly clean 1956 Gretsch 6131 Jet Firebird
    Quick Details
    Weight 7 6lbs
    Width at nut 1 76
    Depth at 1st 0 90
    Depth at 12th 0 95
    We are so excited to have probably the cleanest 1956 Gretsch 611's out there
    This Jet Firebird is all original and in absolutely amazing shape. The paint and finish is all original and in like new shape. There is small finish shrinkage around the neck joint from a neck reset
    The Factory installed DeArmond Dynasonic pickups ... more
    eBay logo
    Vintage Gretsch Archtop Guitar (#2)

    Vintage Gretsch Archtop Guitar (#2)

    San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $975

    Vintage Gretsch Archtop Guitar-This is a 1940s-1950s, 16 " + wide Synchromatic guitar w / laminated woods. The neck is a moderate "C" shape, (not quite a baseball bat). The pick-guard, bridge, tail piece are new tuning gears are after-market. It comes w / original case & new strings
    It has a very authentic 1940s jazz era sound but works very well for Gypsy Jazz as well
    This particular guitar (we have 3 for sale) was goneover at THE REPAIR ZONE in S D., Ca. by the owner of the ... more
    eBay logo
    1966 Gretsch 6122 Chet Atkins Country Gentleman w /  Filtertron / Supertron Pickups

    1966 Gretsch 6122 Chet Atkins Country Gentleman w / Filtertron / Supertron Pickups

    Woodbury, New York, 117**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $5700

    1966 Gretsch 6122 Chet Atkins Country Gentleman w / Filtertron / Supertron Pickups
    Gretsch historians, we have a unique and special instrument to share with you today! This Country Gent, made in October of ?66 just a few months after the Baldwin purchase, features a magic pickup combo. A Supertron in the neck, and a Filtertron in the bridge. The finish is in great condition, and the hardware sports a delightful vintage patina. The guitar has an awesome vintage feel to it and can get tones ... more
    eBay logo
    1963 Gretsch 6199 Sal Salvador Hollowbody Electric Guitar Sunburst

    1963 Gretsch 6199 Sal Salvador Hollowbody Electric Guitar Sunburst

    Farmingdale, New York, 117**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $2999

    p @media screen and (max-width: 560px){ } @media screen and (max-width: 780px){ } @media(min-width: 930px){ } @media(min-width: 1200px){ } a a#fav:hover{ color: #fcbf45; } a @media screen and (max-width: 560px){ a } a a a a a a a a a Add us to your Favorite Sellers! ??
    Questions? We can help!
    Contact us today!
    30-Day Money Back
    Guarantee
    ... more
    eBay logo
    Gretsch G6120T Chet Atkins Nashville Orange Bigsby FilterTron Trest (PD1099535)

    Gretsch G6120T Chet Atkins Nashville Orange Bigsby Filter'Tron Trest (PD1099535)

    Hammond, Louisiana, 704**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $2000

    @import ; .buya-main .buya-main a:hover{ text-decoration: underline; } .buya-main .buya-main .buya-main .buya-main .bravo-logo .buya-main .bravo-logo a:hover, .buya-main .bravo-footer a:hover{ text-decoration: none; } .buya-main .bravo-logo .buya-main .buya-main .logo2 .buya-main .logo2 .buya-main .logo2 .buya-main .buya-main .buya-main .description .buya-main .description ... more
    eBay logo
    RARE Gretsch Original 1970??s Electric Guitar Neck Patterns from Gretsch Factory

    RARE Gretsch Original 1970??s Electric Guitar Neck Patterns from Gretsch Factory

    Somerville, Massachusetts, 021**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1000


    RARE Gretsch Original 1970??s Electric Guitar Neck Patterns from Gretsch Factory

    4 original neck patterns

    An incredible piece of Gretsch and music history

    Come directly from the Gretsch Family Archive

    Come with proof of authenticity including all paperwork from original sale which includes certificate of authenticity and original auction hang tag.

    In very good condition! (See pics)

    Great display potential.

    more
    eBay logo
    GRETSCH VINTAGE BANJO  GRETSCH CLAROPHONE 1920S ORIGINAL CASE

    GRETSCH VINTAGE BANJO GRETSCH CLAROPHONE 1920S ORIGINAL CASE

    Howard, Ohio, 430**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $795

    GRETSCH VINTAGE BANJO GRETSCH CLAROPHONE 1920S ORIGINAL CASE . Has strings but could always use a fresh set. Very nice condition , someone has replaced the head skin at some point. Comes with original case with wear, smart music sticker on it. Thanks for looking and be sure to CHECK OUT our other listings
    We charge EXACT shipping costs plus insurance - no handling charges!
    Please note: sound on any instrument sold is subjective, we can not guarantee sound or how an instrument plays ... more
    eBay logo
    Gretsch 1957 Chet Atkins w /  Hardcase

    Gretsch 1957 Chet Atkins w / Hardcase

    Jenison, Michigan, 494**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $10000


    Gretsch 1957 6120 Chet Atkins Signature Electric Guitar
    Condition
    Moderate wear: Lacquer is sunk in at the back of the headstock, finish checking, average vintage instrument finish wear. Moderate damage: Various dings and dents on front, back, sides, and neck heel
    Description
    This 1957 6120 has a maple body with 2 ply binding. The F-holes are also double bound. The neck and headstock are single bound and the fingerboard is Brazillian rosewood. The nut and bridge ... more
    eBay logo
    NOS Gretsch F Hole decals Black style Country Gentleman Anniversary Duke Kramer

    NOS Gretsch F Hole decals Black style Country Gentleman Anniversary Duke Kramer

    Greenwood, Indiana, 461**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $50

    This listing is for one (1) set of two (2) Gretsch F hole decals. These were used for a period in the early 60's at Gretsch in place of real F holes. When one refinishes a Gretsch, these get wasted in the process. I bought these from Duke Kramer in the 90's. These are the plain black style with no "binding " . I am unsure what the full list of models is that used this style.
    These are an old silk screened decals, meaning you do not cut this style out. The clear is formed in the printing, ... more
    eBay logo
    1956 Gretsch 6169 Roundup Amplifier - Completely restored!

    1956 Gretsch 6169 Roundup Amplifier - Completely restored!

    Ronkonkoma, New York, 117**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $4500

    Western finish, Campfire belt buckle, Wrap around grille, Tooled leather trim, Tremolo, original Rola speakers and dual 6V6 Power Tubes. Basically an original roundup with updated cosmetics
    This one I had refinished to look like it just rolled off the assembly line in 1956!
    It would make the ideal accompaniment for a Roundup guitar. It has that country tone that few amps nail. These amps are extremely rare and rarely hit the market, but to find one that you can appreciate playing and ... more
    eBay logo
    1961 Gretsch Duo Jet previously Randy Bachman owned

    1961 Gretsch Duo Jet previously Randy Bachman owned

    Loveland, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $21000

    1961 GretschDuo jet, Previously was personally owned by Randy Bachman from the BachmanTurner Overdrive (BTO) and the Guess Who, Bought by the Gretsch Family and soldthrough Julien??s Auctions March of 2021, Two Fitertrons, Neo Classical inlays, Single cutaway, Chambered body sounds great acoustically and plugged in, Super cool, EC, Original hard case
    ... more
    eBay logo
    1960 Gretsch Jet Firebird Vintage Electric Guitar

    1960 Gretsch Jet Firebird Vintage Electric Guitar

    Loveland, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $11599

    1960 Gretsch Jet Firebird, Great looking vivid Red finish, Two fantastic sounding PAF Filtertron pickups, Ebony fingerboard, 1 67 incheswide at the nut, Weighs 7 Lbs 7 oz, Sounds good acoustically and amped up!Gorgeous and cool, VG++, Original hard case
    ... more
    eBay logo
    Hager (Gretsch) Artist Flat Top Hawaiian 1930s-40s

    Hager (Gretsch) Artist Flat Top Hawaiian 1930s-40s

    Lansing, Michigan, 489**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $695

    Before we get into the scarcity, build quality, and sound - let's take a second to marvel at the absolutely insanely cool "Hagers School of Music" pennant glued to the lid of case! I mean, come on
    Hager's School of Music was based in Grand Rapids, Michigan and offered Gretsch made instruments for sale. A "stencil" arrangement
    This particular example combines a spruce top with mahogany back and sides and a square neck set up for slide / Hawaiian style - roughly Concert / OOO dimensions. ... more
    eBay logo
    1965 Gretsch 6162 Dual Twin Reverb 18w 2x10" Combo Amp

    1965 Gretsch 6162 Dual Twin Reverb 18w 2x10" Combo Amp

    San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    $1495

    1965 Gretsch 6162 Amp
    In Good Condition
    2x10" Original Jensens
    18w Tube Circuit
    Reverb & Tremolo
    Comes As Shown In The Photos
    Available For Local Pickup Only - Currently Located At The Sherman Oaks Location
    ... more
    eBay logo

    Find more Gretsch at vintageguitarsforsale.co

    There are 0 comments on this page so far. Add your comment

    Comment on this article

    Anti-spam question - to catch web robots

    Contact
    info@vintageguitarandbass.com

    mailing list

    Follow

    Facebook  Instagram  YouTube

    Other Great Sites

    Recent posts on vintage guitar and bass

    1971 Selmer guitar catalogue

    1971 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1971 Selmer guitar catalogue showing the range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Gibson, Yamaha, Selmer, Hofner and Suzuki. 1960s Selmer had always placed Hofner at the front end of their catalogues, no doubt these were the better sellers - but into the 1970s Hofner were slipping somewhat and only appear at the tail end of this publication, pride of place going to Gibson, and to a lesser extent Yamaha. In fact this is the last Selmer catalogue to include the many Hofner hollow bodies (Committee, President, Senator etc) that had defined the companies output for so many years - to be replaced in the 1972 catalogue by generic solid body 'copies' of Gibson and Fender models. A number of new Gibson models are included for the first time: the SG-100 and SG-200 six string guitars and the SB-300 and SB-400 basses.

    1968 Selmer guitar catalogue

    1968 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1968/1969 Selmer guitar catalogue (printed July 1968), showing the entire range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Hofner, Gibson, Selmer and Giannini. Selmer were the exclusive United Kingdom distributors of Hofner and Gibson at the time, and this catalogue contains a total of 18 electric guitars, 7 bass guitars, 37 acoustics, and 2 Hawaiian guitars - all produced outside the UK and imported by Selmer, with UK prices included in guineas. This catalogue saw the (re-)introduction of the late sixties Gibson Les Paul Custom and Les Paul Standard (see page 69) and the short-lived Hofner Club 70. Other electric models include: HOFNER ELECTRICS: Committee, Verithin 66, Ambassador, President, Senator, Galaxie, HOFNER BASSES: Violin bass, Verithin bass, Senator bass, Professional bass GIBSON ELECTRICS: Barney Kessel, ES-330TD, ES-335TD, ES-345TD, ES-175D, ES-125CD, SG Standard, SG Junior, SG Special GIBSON BASSES: EB-0, EB-2, EB-3 - plus a LOT of acoustics branded Gibson, Hofner, Selmer and Giannini

    1961 Hofner Colorama I

    1961 Hofner Colorama IHofner Colorama was the name UK distributor Selmer gave to a series of solid and semi-solid guitars built by Hofner for distribution in the UK. The construction and specifications of the guitars varied over the period of production, but by 1961 it was a totally solid, double cutaway instrument, with a set neck, translucent cherry finish, six-in-a-row headstock, and Hofner Diamond logo pickups. Available as a single or dual pickup guitar, this sngle pickup version would have been sold in mainland Europe as the Hofner 161.

    1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)

    1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)Commodore was a brand applied to a series of guitars produced in Japan at the well-respected Matsumoku plant from the late 1960s to the mid 1970s - and sold primarily (perhaps exclusively?) in the United Kingdom. The models bearing the Commodore name were all guitars available from different distributors with different branding. Although there may have been some minor changes in appointments (specifically headstock branding) most had the same basic bodies, hardware and construction. Equivalent models to the Commodore N25 (and this is by no means an exhaustive list) include the Aria 5102T, Conrad 5102T(?), Electra 2221, Lyle 5102T, Ventura V-1001, Univox Coily - and most famously the Epiphone 5102T / Epiphone EA-250.

    1960 Hofner Colorama II

    1960 Hofner Colorama IIThe Hofner Colorama was the name given by Selmer to a series of solid (and semi-solid) body Hofner guitars distributed in the United Kingdom between 1958 and 1965. The Colorama name actually applied to some quite different guitars over the period, but in 1960 it was a very light, semi-solid, set necked guitar with one (Colorama I) or two (Colorama II, as seen here) Toaster pickups. Although an entry-level guitar, it was very well-built, and a fine playing guitar; certainly a step up (at least in terms of craftsmanship) from many of the Colorama guitars that would follow, and a good deal of the guitars available in Britain circa 1960.

    1971 Epiphone 1820 bass (ET-280)

    1971 Epiphone 1820 (ET-280) bassBy the end of the 1960s, a decision had been made to move Epiphone guitar production from the USA (at the Kalamazoo plant where Gibson guitars were made), to Matsumoto in Japan, creating a line of guitars and basses significantly less expensive than the USA-built models (actually less than half the price). The Matsumoku factory had been producing guitars for export for some time, but the 1820 bass (alongside a number of guitar models and the 5120 electric acoustic bass) were the first Epiphone models to be made there. These new Epiphones were based on existing Matsumoku guitars, sharing body shapes, and hardware, but the Epiphone line was somewhat upgraded, with inlaid logos and a 2x2 peghead configuration. Over the course of the 70s, the Japanese output improved dramatically, and in many ways these early 70s models are a low point for the brand. Having said this, there are a lot worse guitars out there, and as well as being historically important, the 1820 bass can certainly provide the goods when required.

    1981 Gibson Marauder

    1981 Gibson MarauderProduction of Bill Lawrence's Gibson Marauder began in 1974, with production peaking in 1978. But by 1980 the model was officially discontinued, though very small numbers slipped out as late as spring 1981. Over 7000 examples shipped between 1974 and 1979, and although no totals are available for 1980 and 1981, it is unlikely production reached three figures in either of these years. These final Marauders were all assembled at the Gibson Nashville plant, and had some nice features not available through the later years of production, such as a rosewood fretboard, and in this case, an opaque 'Devil Red' finish. It's a great looking and fine playing guitar!

    1971 'Pick Epiphone' Catalog

    1971 Pick Epiphone catalogWhen Epiphone production moved from Kalamazoo to the Matsumoku plant in Japan, a whole new range of electric, flattop and classic acoustic guitars was launched. Between late 1970 and 1972 the new models were launched and refined. This 'folder' catalog contains various inserts released over these years detailing four electric six-strings (ET-270, ET-275, ET-278, and thinline EA-250), three bass guitars (ET-280, ET-285, and thinline EA-260), three folk/steel acoustics, four jumbo flattop acoustics, two 12-string jumbos, four classic acoustics, and a banjo.

    1981 'Gibson Specials' Pre-Owners Manual

    1981 Gibson Specials Pre-Owners Manual'Gibson Specials' was part of the June 1981 pre-owners manual series, but unlike the other folders contained a mish-mash of different guitars: limited editions, test marketing and close outs. "You will find the unusual, the brand-new, and the bargain within this folder". End of line 70s guitars like the Marauder, S-1, and L-6S Custom mixed in with brand new models the The V, The Explorer and the Flying V Bass.
    It was the largest folder in the series, with 24 inserts, (19 guitars and 5 basses): Guitars: 335-S Standard, Melody Maker Double, Marauder, L-6S Custom, S-1, RD Artist, Firebird, Firebird II, Flying V, Flying V-II, The V, Explorer, Explorer II, The Explorer, The "SG" Standard, Les Paul Artist, Les Paul Artisan, ES-335 Heritage, ES-175/CC Basses: Grabber, G-3, L-9S, RD Artist Bass, Flying V Bass

    1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bass

    1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bassRose-Morris were selling Shaftesbury-branded Rickenbacker copy instruments from the late 1960s right through the 1970s. The 3263 bass was one of the first models, (alongside the 3261 six string and 3262 twelve string) available from late 1968 until about 1974. The earliest incarnation was a set neck bass, produced very briefly in Japan. But production quickly moved to Italy. This bolt-on neck example was built by Eko, in Recanati, using the same hardware and pickups as fitted to Eko, and Vox basses built around the same time. It's certainly a fine looking bass, and not a bad player either.

    1961 Hohner Zambesi

    1961 Hohner ZambesiThis very early, and pretty rare British-built guitar is branded Hohner London. Hohner were, of course, a German company, better known for their harmonicas and accordions, but they were keenly expanding into guitars at the birth of the 1960s. This model, along with the Hohner Amazon and (particularly) the Hohner Holborn, bear some similarity with Vox guitars of the same period; furniture manufacturer Stuart Darkins constructed bodies and necks for both brands, with Fenton Weill assembling them using their hardware and pickups. These guitars do have some hardware peculiarities, and they are not the most adjustable of instruments, but they actually play very nicely, being solidly built out of some very nice woods. Check out the video on this page.

    1963 Vox Super Ace

    1963 Vox Super AceThe Vox Super Ace was a mid-priced British solid body electric guitar, produced by JMI at their factory in Dartford, Kent. It was broadly modelled on the Fender Stratocaster, and a sibling model to the dual-pickup Vox Ace. Both the Ace, and Super Ace (along with several other models), were redesigned in 1963 with a new body shape, headstock style, and pickup layout - only increasing the resemblance to the aforementioned Fender. The Super Ace had a 1963 price tag of £47 5S. It's a pretty nice playing guitar with some lovely sounds - check out the videos on this page, and in the Vintage Guitar and Bass supporting members area

    1966 Vox New Escort

    1966 Vox New EscortThe Vox New Escort was Vox's version of the Fender Telecaster, at a time when American guitars were out of reach for most British musicians. It was made by JMI in England, for the British market, and unlike the majority of other models, didn't have an Italian-made equivalent. But the New Escort wasn't a slavish Fender copy, adding Vox's stylish teardrop headstock to the tele-style body, with a stop tailpiece and two Vox V2 single coil pickups. And it's a pretty substantial, and nice playing guitar, with a very comfortable neck. Check out the images, specifications, and watch a video of it in action. There is also extra content in the vintageguitarandbass supporting members area.

    1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin' Care

    1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin CareCatalog scan. The 1969 Fender Lovin' Care catalog consisted of 48 pages of electric guitars, basses, amplifiers, steel guitars, acoustic guitars, banjos and keyboards. Like the previous catalog, this featured the company's guitars in a variety of interesting settings around California, from the Whiskey-A-Go-Go, to the Hollywood Bowl. Several instruments were making their first appearance amongst it's pages: the Telecaster bass, Montego and LTD jazz guitars, and the Redondo acoustic. It was the final catalog appearance, however, of the Electric XII, Bass V, Duo-Sonic, Coronado I and Coronado Bass I.

    1973 Eko Ranger Folk

    1973 Eko Ranger FolkThe Eko Ranger series of guitars was incredibly popular in the second half of the 1960s and through the 1970s, selling in very large numbers. The Ranger Folk was 1 1/4" smaller, and 1" shallower than the Ranger VI and XII - and with a narrower waist. Not a bad guitar; a little quiet, but pretty playable. These were great value in 1973, and because they sold so many, they are easy to find and excellent value today.

    1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitar

    1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitarThe Symphonic bass was built in the UK, by Vox parent company JMI. It was the Vox equivalent to the Fender Precision bass, and was one of the most expensive Vox guitars produced. It was actually a great playing bass, rather similar to the Precision in feel and sound, but was probably just too expensive compared to an actual Fender and consequently sold poorly. When Vox hit financial problems in 1968, unsold guitars and basses were passed on to Dallas Arbiter, who briefly sold the excess Symphonic bass stock as model 4537. This bass, although with a neck date of February 1966, was most likely one of the unsold Vox guitars sold on by Dallas Arbiter. Check out the bass, and the two video demos through 1960s Ampeg and WEM amplifiers.

    1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog

    1968 Shaftesbury catalogThe 1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog was just four pages long, and contained four guitar models: the six string Barney Kessel-style 3264; and three Rickenbacker-styled semi-acoustic models: the six-string 3261, the twelve string 3262 and the 3263 bass. Shaftesbury was the house-brand of major UK distributor Rose-Morris, and seems to have been launched as a response to the company's loss of it's distribution deal with Rickenbacker. The guitars were mid-priced, and built in (initially) Japan, and later Italy, by Eko

    1970 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns Celebrated Classics' catalog

    1970 Rose_Morris catalog1970 Rose-Morris catalog, dated April 1970. It featured 6 electric guitars, 32 acoustic guitars, 3 basses and 1 steel guitar. It contains the following instruments, over 20 pages: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3262, 3264, 3265, 3400; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Colorado, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12; Aria 1674, 1675, 1676, 1679, 1680, 1695, 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk; Rose-Morris 15-11, Kansas, Georgian, Florida; Suzuki 1663, 1664, 1665, 3054, 3055, 3060; Tatay 1713, 1714, 1715; Peerless 3052; Steel guitar: Aria 3425

    1971 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns' catalog

    1971 Rose_Morris catalogThe sixteen-page 1971 Rose-Morris catalog featured electric guitars by Rose-Morris' own brand, Shaftesbury, and budget brand Top Twenty; aswell as acoustics by Eko, Aria, and for the first time Ovation. The catalog contains the following instruments: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3264, 3265, 3400, 3402; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Ovation: Balladeer, 12 String, Glen Campbell, Glen Campbell 12 string; Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12, Colorado, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Studio 'L'; Rose-Morris Florida; Aria 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk

    1972 Fender Precision bass

    1972 Fender PrecisionA detailed look at an early 1970s Fender Precision bass guitar in custom black finish, with rosewood fretboard. 1972 list price, $307.50. The Fender Precision had been shipping since at least very early 1952 - with just one re-design circa 1957. This example, then, shows a model already two decades old, but barely changed since the '57 revamp. Fender got it right first time around, and although there are numerous minor cosmetic differences, the essence of this bass is effectively the same as it was in '52: a simple, single pickup instrument with a GREAT sound. Check out the demo video through an old Ampeg B15. It's no wonder this is the bass that everybody wants!

    1967 Vox Stroller

    1967 Vox StrollerThe Vox Stroller was the brand's entry level electric solid body guitar, fitted with just one pickup and a fixed tailpiece. Although aimed at student guitarists, it wasn't a terrible instrument, but did lack somewhat in adjustability, having no accessible truss rod and only a floating rosewood bridge. But this example is actually quite an improvement on earlier versions, with a standard 1/4" jack and a solid mahogany body. 1967 price £18 2s. JMI ceased UK guitar production in late '67, and combined with decreasing demand for the Stroller, this surely must be one of the last examples shipped.

    1963 Vox Clubman Bass (left handed)

    1963 Vox Clubman Bass left handedA nice example of the Vox Clubman II bass, built by JMI in Dartford, Kent in 1963. This is a lightweight bass, short (30") scale and very easy to play. It is an early example, and as such has a thin black scratchplate and side mounted, coaxial output jack. JMI offered left handed examples of their solid body Vox guitars and basses at 10% premium. Production numbers are unclear, but left-handed examples rarely come up for sale

    1977 Gibson ES Artist 'prototype'

    1977 Gibson ES Artist prototypeNot to be confused with the Gibson ES Artist launched by Gibson in 1979; this ES Artist was an early model designed by the Gibson research and development team in Kalamazoo in 1977, the instruments themselves constructed by Gibson artist Chuck Burge. It was planned for launch as a high end semi acoustic with 335-style construction (central maple block) and innovative circuitry - but was pulled at the last minute, being deemed too expensive. Apparently, several examples were produced with varying specifications, though exactly how many actually left the Kalamazoo plant is unclear. Certainly two guitars were sold to LaVonne Music by Gibson in around 1980. Read more about the development of this guitar, with details from Chuck Burge and the story of it's sale to LaVonne music

    1959 Hofner Committee

    1959 Hofner CommitteeThe Hofner Committee was a truly beautiful guitar produced in Germany, primarily for the UK market. It was a large bodied (initially 17 1/2") guitar with a carved spruce top, available as an acoustic or electric guitar. By the early sixties the carved top was replaced with a laminate, and although still a very fine guitar, the earlier carved top examples, with frondose headstock (like the example shown here) are far more highly prized amongst musicians and vintage guitar collectors.

    1965 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

    1965 Gretsch Chet Atkins TennesseanThe Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, or model 6119 was Gretsch's best selling hollow body of the 1960s. This wonderfully faded example from 1965 was originally Dark Cherry Red, but has turned a mid-orange brown. The original color, however, can be seen underneath the pickup surrounds. 1965 specs: maple body, two-piece neck, Brazilian rosewood fretboard and Hi-Lo 'Tron single coil pickups. Nickel plated Gretsch Bigsby tailpiece.

    1965 Gretsch 'For the Spectacular Sound of the Times' guitar and amp catalog

    1965 Gretsch catalogThe 1965 Gretsch catalog, or catalog #32, featured 10 hollow body electric guitars, including the newly launched Gretsch Viking; four solid body electrics, including the Astro Jet - making it's only catalog appearance; just one bass, the single pickup PX6070; nine acoustics and 12 tube amplifiers. Pride of place went to the Chet Atkins Country Gentleman that adorned both the front and back covers. 24 pages, six of which are in full color.

    Guitar Repair: fixing fret buzz and sharp fret ends

    Guitar Repair: fixing fret buzz and sharp fret endsLoose frets are especially problematic in certain old guitars, but are generally very easy to fix. You'll be amazed at the difference you can make with just a few tools, a bit of knowledge, and a little time. Fixing loose frets can eliminate fret buzz, remove sharp fret ends, and greatly improve the tone of any guitar. If your luthier bill will be greater than the value of your guitar, definitely time to have a go yourself!

    1966 Hagstrom 'worlds fastest playing neck' catalog (Merson USA)

    1966 Hagstrom guitar catalogHagstrom guitars were distributed in the mid-1960s United States by Merson of USA. This eight page 'worlds fastest playing neck' catalog, printed in two-colors contained six solid body electrics, three solid body basses, two electric acoustic guitars, two electric acoustic basses and five acoustics.

    1965 Hofner President

    1965 Hofner PresidentThe President was produced by Hofner in Bubenreuth, Germany, specifically for Selmer, who distributed the brand in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and other commonwealth nations. The President was a hollow body electric acoustic, available as a full body or thinline, and with blonde or brunette finish. It was a great playing guitar that sold fairly well in the second half of the 1950s, throughout the 1960s, and into the very early 1970s. The example shown here is a full-body depth guitar in blonde - and as a 1965 guitar, one of the last to feature the rounded Venetian cutaway. From late 1965 until 1972, the President sported a sharp Florentine cut. Naturally, such an electric acoustic suggests jazz and blues, but many of the original British Hofner President players were part of the rock 'n roll, skiffle and beat scenes of the late 50s and early 60s.

    1963 1964 Fender catalog

    Fender 1963 catalogue"The Choice of Professional and Student Musicians Everywhere" This eight page catalogue was included as an insert in the 1963 annual "school music" issue of Downbeat magazine (September 1963). As well as keyboards and pedal steels, this catalog contains seven guitars, three basses and ten amplifiers - from student guitars such as the Musicmaster and Duotone to professional models like the new Jaguar.