In 1953, Gretsch responded to the success of other manufacturer's solidbody guitars with the "Gretsch Electromatic Solid Body Guita,” a.k.a. the model 6128 Duo Jet. This new electric guitar arrived in stores in the Fall of 1953, and it was designed with a chambered body for enhanced resonance. The combination of the chambered construction and single-coil DeArmond Dynasonic pickups give the Duo Jet a signature sound with clarity and definition unlike other vintage electrics.
This Duo Jet is serial #12033, which means it is one of the first batch of 150 guitars made in 1953. Early models, known as "scripty Jets," feature a unique script-style headstock logo and a few other details you won't find from '54 onward. Beyond the headstock logo, the knobs are simply flat on top because Gretsch hadn't developed the stamped "G" design. The pickguard is a simple three-ply guard without any "Gretsch" logo or branding, and there is no inlay at the first fret. While the early examples do feature the innovative Melita Synchro-Sonic bridge, the base is made of Bakelite instead of cast aluminum.
But perhaps the coolest detail of early Duo Jets is that the top finish, well, isn't finish. Yes, the signature black top of the early model 6128 is made from the same Nitron material used on Gretsch drums. Difficult to fit to the contours of a guitar body, the Nitron was quickly abandoned in favor of black paint, but it gives the early "scripty Jets" an extremely cool—familiar yet unique—look.
After 71 years, this particular 1953 Gretsch Duo Jet finds us in impressive condition. Like the rest of the first 150 Duo Jets, the pots date to the 33rd week of '53. It appears to feature all of its original parts and components. In fact, there are still nibs on the fingerboard binding, so we believe the frets are even original. The pickup riser on the bridge pickup is a tortoiseshell design, and though it has cracked and worn over the years, it distal does the job nicely. The guitar includes a tweed Gretsch case that was likely purchased new with the guitar—the perfect way to complete the package.
Although vintage Gretsch guitars often had problematic neck joints, the neck angle on this '53 allows for low, inviting action. In your hands, this Duo Jet feels like a formidable instrument that will take you wherever you need to go—the short 24.5" scale length is fast and playable, and the DynaSonics pack some serious sparkle, twang, and bite. As Gretsch's flagship model throughout the '50s, the Duo Jet's enduring legacy solidified the company's position in the electric guitar market. This stunning 1953 example will show you why!