This is an exceptionally cool and unusual early Gretsch 6125 Single Anniversary, dating to approximately 1960–1961.

The serial number places the guitar around 1961, while the early-style Filter’Tron pickup and other period features point toward the 1960/61 transitional period. Gretsch production during this era did not always fall neatly within calendar years, making transitional examples like this particularly interesting.

The 6125 Single Anniversary was introduced as part of Gretsch’s 75th Anniversary series and features the classic hollow maple body, short 24.5” scale and unmistakable Gretsch styling of the era. Early examples were fitted with a single Filter’Tron humbucker in the bridge position before Gretsch transitioned the model to the HiLo’Tron pickup. In that respect, this guitar also shares some similarities with the early 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean, another single-pickup Gretsch from this period.

This is an exceptionally rare configuration and an extremely difficult guitar to find today. To date, only one other example is known to have been seen and sold, reportedly through a boutique guitar store in New York City for $7,000. That rarity, combined with the early Filter’Tron specification, makes this a particularly noteworthy example for Gretsch collectors and vintage guitar enthusiasts.

Condition is very nice for a guitar that is approximately 65 years old. It shows light, honest play wear but has no known structural damage. There are two small, non-filled/unoccupied drill holes in the top where it appears an additional pickup or mounting hardware may have been installed at some point in its life. This is cosmetic and has no effect on the guitar’s playability or structural integrity, but it is mentioned for complete disclosure.

The guitar has been professionally set up and is currently in excellent playing condition. It is remarkably lightweight and resonant at only 6 lbs. 4 oz.

A fantastic example of early-’60s Gretsch craftsmanship with loads of vintage character, and a particularly rare configuration from the transitional Filter’Tron/HiLo’Tron era.

Details:

• Gretsch Model 6125 Single Anniversary
• Circa 1960–1961
• Exceptionally rare early configuration
• Hollow maple body
• Single bridge-position Filter’Tron pickup
• Approx. 24.5” scale
• Weight: 6 lbs. 4 oz.
• Professionally set up
• Excellent playing condition
• Light vintage wear
• No known structural damage
• Includes the original Gretsch hardshell case

A very rare and historically interesting piece of Gretsch history that is equally at home as a collectible vintage instrument or a guitar that can actually be played and enjoyed.