A 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody in Western Orange finish with distinctive single-cutaway design, Filter'Tron pickups, and V-style Bigsby tailpiece.

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• Historical Context and Timeline

• 1960 Gretsch 6120 Specifications

• Identifying a 1960 Gretsch 6120

• Current Market Value (2025 Update)

• Tonal Characteristics and Sound Profile

• Common Issues, Modifications, and Authenticity Concerns

• Why Players and Collectors Value the 1960 6120

• 1960 vs. Other Years: How to Spot the Differences

• Famous Users of the Gretsch 6120

• Selling Your 1960 Gretsch 6120

• FAQ: 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody

• Conclusion

• Resources and References

Introduction

The 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of one of America's most iconic electric guitars. After six years of refinement since its 1954 introduction, the 1960 model achieves what many collectors and players consider the perfect balance of features, tone, and playability. With its distinctive "Western Orange" finish, single-cutaway design, dual Filter'Tron pickups, and V-style Bigsby vibrato, the 1960 6120 stands as one of the most recognizable and sought-after vintage guitars in the collector market.

This specific year marks a significant transitional period for the model, with several refinements that make these instruments particularly coveted today. From its slimmer 2.5" body to its ebony fingerboard with "Neo-Classical" thumbnail inlays, the 1960 6120 represents the pinnacle of pre-Baldwin era Gretsch craftsmanship.

Historical Context and Timeline

The Birth of the 6120: Chet Atkins and Gretsch

In early 1954, Gretsch's special representative Jimmie Webster approached country guitar virtuoso Chet Atkins about endorsing a signature model guitar. Atkins, observing Gibson's success with the Les Paul model, agreed to collaborate with Gretsch on what would become the Model 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody.

The original design was based on Gretsch's existing Streamliner hollowbody. Atkins requested several modifications to the prototype, including a Bigsby vibrato tailpiece and a metal nut to improve sustain. The production model featured a 22-fret neck with a 24.5" scale length (though a few early examples had only 21 frets), a 15.5" wide body with a 2.75" depth, and distinctive Western-themed decorations meant to appeal to the country music market.

Evolution of the 6120: 1954-1960

The 6120 underwent several significant changes during its first six years of production:

• 1954-1955: Initial prototype and first production models featured DeArmond pickups, Western decorations including cow and cactus fretboard inlays, and a "G" brand on the body.

• 1957: Gretsch added a bar bridge to the model.

• 1958: Major changes included the replacement of DeArmond pickups with Ray Butts-designed Filter'Tron humbuckers (which Atkins preferred for their warmer tone and hum-canceling properties), and the introduction of "Neo-Classical" thumbnail inlays replacing the earlier hump-block inlays.

• 1959: Gretsch added a zero fret, eliminating the need for a brass nut.

• 1960: The body depth was reduced from 2.75" to 2.5", and the Bigsby tailpiece was updated to the distinctive V-style Gretsch by Bigsby design. Early 1960 models were among the first 6120s to feature patent numbers on the pickups.

Atkins himself actually preferred other Gretsch models (particularly the Country Gentleman) and gradually had the Western-themed decorations removed from the 6120 as his influence over the design increased.

1960 Gretsch 6120 Specifications

Below are the complete specifications for the 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody model:

Identifying a 1960 Gretsch 6120

Serial Numbers and Dating

Authentic 1960 Gretsch 6120 models typically have serial numbers in the 34000 to 38999 range. The serial number is usually found on a label inside the guitar's body, visible through the bass-side f-hole. Some early 1960 production models might carry late 1959 serial numbers (33000-34000 range).

Certain production batches are particularly sought after by collectors. For example, the 367xx batch is documented for its use of heavily flamed maple tops, which significantly increases the value of these instruments.

Key Features Specific to 1960

The 1960 6120 can be distinguished from earlier and later models by several specific features:

1. Body Depth: 2.5" (slimmer than the 2.75" depth of 1955-1959 models, but thicker than the 2.25" depth that would be introduced in 1961)

2. Bigsby Tailpiece: V-style Gretsch by Bigsby (replacing the earlier B6 version with black enamel face)

3. Filter'Tron Pickups: Early 1960 models were among the first to feature patent numbers on the Filter'Tron pickups (versus "Patent Applied For" markings on earlier versions)

4. Zero Fret: Introduced in 1959 and continued in 1960 models

5. Cutaway Style: Still featured the original single-cutaway design (the double-cutaway "Nashville" would be introduced in 1962)

6. F-Holes: Real, functional f-holes (not the painted "f-holes" that would appear on later models)

Distinguishing from Similar Models

The 1960 6120 should not be confused with other Gretsch models from the same period:

• 6119 Tennessean: A lower-priced model featuring a single pickup, later used by George Harrison. While both were Chet Atkins signature models, the Tennessean featured a dark cherry red finish versus the 6120's Western Orange.

• 6121 Solid Body: The solid-body version of the 6120 with similar appointments but lacking the f-holes and hollow construction.

• 6122 Country Gentleman: A higher-end model with simulated f-holes and a more refined appearance, which Chet Atkins himself actually preferred to the 6120.

Current Market Value (2025 Update)

The 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody has appreciated significantly in value since its original retail price of $425. In 2017, Premier Guitar's "Vintage Vault" valued excellent all-original examples at approximately $7,500. Today's market has seen substantial increases beyond those figures.

Current market values (as of 2025) generally fall within these ranges:

• Museum-Quality Examples: $14,000-$16,000 (all-original with minimal wear, original case and documentation)

• Excellent Condition: $11,000-$13,500 (all-original with minor wear)

• Very Good Condition: $8,500-$10,500 (may have minor repairs or maintenance)

• Good/Player's Condition: $7,000-$8,500 (may have some non-original parts or finish issues)

Value-Adding Factors

Several factors can significantly increase the value of a 1960 6120:

• Originality: All-original examples command a premium of 30-40% over those with replaced parts

• Flame Maple Intensity: Certain production batches (particularly from the coveted 367xx series) featured heavily flamed maple tops that command premium prices

• Finish Condition: Minimal checking and fading significantly increases value

• Hardware Condition: Original gold-plated hardware with minimal wear adds value

• Original Case: The white "cowboy" case in good condition increases value by 5-10%

• Documentation: Original paperwork, tags, and receipts can add 10-15% to the value

• Provenance: Instruments with documented history of notable ownership can command significant premiums

Recent sales on platforms like Reverb.com and through specialized vintage dealers have consistently shown these instruments trading in the five-figure range, with particularly exceptional examples approaching $15,000.

At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium examples, recognizing their true collector value while providing sellers with fair, immediate cash offers.

Tonal Characteristics and Sound Profile

The 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody possesses a distinctive sound profile that continues to attract players across multiple genres. Its unique tonal characteristics include:

Sound Characteristics

• Clean Tones: Warm, articulate clean sounds with excellent note separation and pronounced attack

• Midrange Quality: Rich, complex midrange with bell-like highs that cut through a mix

• Acoustic Properties: Excellent acoustic resonance thanks to the hollow body design and light trestle bracing

• Overdrive Response: Compressed, singing sustain when driven into overdrive, with controlled feedback at higher volumes

• Pickup Balance: Well-matched output between neck and bridge pickups, allowing for versatile tonal combinations

• Attack Profile: Pronounced attack with a characteristic "snap" signature to Filter'Tron pickups

• Dynamic Response: Excellent sensitivity to picking dynamics, allowing for expressive playing

Filter'Tron Pickup Specifics

The Filter'Tron pickups found in the 1960 6120 are particularly valued for their specific sound characteristics:

• Output Range: Typically measure 7.2-7.8K ohms resistance (bridge pickup usually slightly hotter)

• Tonal Balance: Brighter than Gibson PAF humbuckers, warmer than Fender single coils

• Harmonic Content: Rich in complex upper harmonics while maintaining a strong fundamental

• Hum Rejection: True humbucking design cancels 60-cycle hum, which was a specific concern for recording artist Chet Atkins

Musical Applications

The 1960 6120's tonal versatility makes it suitable for numerous playing styles:

• Country & Western: Clear articulation for complex fingerpicking and chicken pickin' techniques

• Rockabilly: Perfect for slapback echo-laden riffs and solos (Brian Setzer's signature sound)

• Early Rock & Roll: Delivers the authentic hollow-body tone heard on numerous classic recordings

• Jazz: Warm neck pickup tones suitable for traditional jazz voicings

• Blues: Responsive to dynamic playing with excellent expressiveness

• Alternative/Indie: Distinctive character that cuts through modern mixes

Common Issues, Modifications, and Authenticity Concerns

When evaluating a vintage 1960 Gretsch 6120, collectors and players should be aware of these common issues, period-correct modifications, and authenticity considerations:

Common Condition Issues

1. Binding Deterioration: The binding on vintage Gretsch guitars often shrinks, cracks, or deteriorates over time, particularly on the headstock and f-holes.

2. Pickguard Cracks: The original gold plexi pickguards frequently develop cracks at the mounting screw holes. This is so common that it's considered normal for the era.

3. Finish Checking: The nitrocellulose finish commonly develops fine cracks or "checking" patterns, especially in guitars stored in varying temperature and humidity conditions.

4. Neck Angle Issues: Many vintage 6120s eventually require a neck reset due to the tension of the strings gradually pulling the neck forward over decades.

5. Hardware Corrosion: The gold plating on the original hardware often shows wear or tarnishing, particularly on frequently touched surfaces like tuner buttons and pickup covers.

Common Modifications

1. Tuner Replacements: The original Grover Sta-Tite tuners were sometimes replaced with later Grover models or other brands for improved stability.

2. Potentiometer Replacements: The original CTS pots often wear out and get replaced. Period-correct replacements should have date codes matching the correct era (late 1959 to early 1960).

3. Bridge Adjustments: Many players had the original bar bridge modified for better intonation or replaced with aftermarket versions.

4. Strap Button Additions: Original 6120s often had a single strap button, with the strap attaching to the tailpiece. Many have had a second button added to the upper horn.

5. Wiring Modifications: Some players modified the electronics to bypass the tone circuit or changed the switching configuration for different tonal options.

Authenticity Verification Checklist

When examining a potential 1960 Gretsch 6120 purchase, check these points to verify authenticity:

• Serial Number Range: Should be in the 34000-38999 range (visible through the bass-side f-hole)

• Body Depth: Should measure 2.5 inches exactly

• Pickup Covers: Should have "PAT. APPLIED FOR" or patent numbers on Filter'Tron bases

• Headstock Logo: Should feature the correct "T-roof" Gretsch logo and horseshoe inlay

• Neck Construction: Should have a zero fret and the correct maple/ebony construction

• Binding Color: Should be aged cream/ivory (not bright white)

• Wood Grain Visibility: The Western Orange finish should allow the maple grain to be visible

• Control Configuration: Verify the correct positioning of volume controls and switches

• Bigsby Model: Should be the V-cutout version, not the earlier black-faced B6 model

Why Players and Collectors Value the 1960 6120

The 1960 Gretsch 6120 holds special appeal for both players and collectors for several reasons:

Historical Significance

• Golden Era Craftsmanship: Represents the pre-Baldwin acquisition era of Gretsch (Baldwin bought Gretsch in 1967), when quality control was at its peak

• Chet Atkins Connection: Direct association with one of the most influential guitarists of the 20th century

• American Manufacturing Heritage: Handcrafted in Brooklyn, New York during the golden age of American guitar manufacturing

• Nashville Sound: Instrumental in creating the distinctive guitar tones of the "Nashville Sound" era of country music

• Rock and Roll History: Used by pioneering rockers like Eddie Cochran on landmark recordings

Playability and Ergonomics

• Refined Dimensions: The 2.5" body depth is considered by many to be the ideal compromise between comfort and acoustic resonance

• Neck Profile: The moderate C/D profile provides excellent comfort for a variety of playing styles

• Scale Length: The 24.5" scale length offers comfortable string tension that's ideal for bending

• Zero Fret: Ensures consistent open string tone and action

• Weight: Typically lighter than solid body alternatives, making it comfortable for long performances

Sonic Excellence

• Genre Versatility: Excels across multiple genres from country and rockabilly to jazz and rock

• Recording Quality: The Filter'Tron pickups were specifically designed to address recording challenges, making these guitars exceptionally studio-friendly

• Dynamic Range: Responsive to playing dynamics, allowing for expressive performance

• Amplifier Pairing: Works exceptionally well with vintage-style tube amplifiers

• Harmonic Complexity: Offers rich harmonic content that more modern designs often fail to capture

Investment Considerations

• Consistent Appreciation: Has shown steady value appreciation over decades

• Limited Production Numbers: Original production figures were relatively low

• Distinctive Aesthetic: Immediately recognizable design with significant cultural resonance

• Comparative Value: Often considered more affordable than comparable Gibson instruments from the same era, suggesting potential for continued appreciation

• Increasing Rarity: Genuine, all-original examples become scarcer each year

1960 vs. Other Years: How to Spot the Differences

The 1960 Gretsch 6120 represents an important transitional point in the model's evolution. Here's how to distinguish it from adjacent years:

1959 vs. 1960 Differences

• Body Depth: 1959 = 2.75" vs. 1960 = 2.5"

• Bigsby Tailpiece: 1959 = Black enamel-faced B6 Bigsby vs. 1960 = V-style Gretsch by Bigsby

• Filter'Tron Markings: 1959 = Mostly "Patent Applied For" vs. 1960 = First year with patent numbers on some examples

• Serial Numbers: 1959 = Generally 30000-33999 vs. 1960 = Generally 34000-38999

1960 vs. 1961 Differences

• Body Depth: 1960 = 2.5" vs. 1961 = Further reduced to 2.25"

• Internal Bracing: Some subtle changes to bracing patterns

• Production Numbers: 1961 saw reduced production as the model was preparing for its major redesign in 1962

1960 vs. 1962 Major Redesign

• Cutaway Style: 1960 = Single cutaway vs. 1962 = Double cutaway introduced

• Model Name: 1960 = "Chet Atkins Hollowbody" vs. 1962 = Beginning transition to "Nashville" name (though not fully implemented until 1964)

• Body Construction: 1962 models began the transition toward thinner bodies and painted f-holes

Famous Users of the Gretsch 6120

While Chet Atkins himself actually preferred the Country Gentleman model (6122), the 6120 bearing his name has been used by numerous influential guitarists:

Early Adopters (1950s-1960s)

• Eddie Cochran: The pioneering rock and roll guitarist used a 6120 on classics like "Summertime Blues" and "C'mon Everybody"

• Duane Eddy: The "twangy guitar" instrumentalist used a 6120 to create his signature sound on numerous hit recordings

• George Harrison: While more associated with the Country Gentleman and Tennessean models, Harrison occasionally used a 6120

• Pete Townshend: Received a 6120 as a gift from Joe Walsh and used it on both "Who's Next" and "Quadrophenia" albums

Later Notable Users

• Brian Setzer: Perhaps the guitarist most associated with the 6120, Setzer used a 1959 model extensively with The Stray Cats and his Orchestra

• Reverend Horton Heat (Jim Heath): The psychobilly guitarist has a signature model based on the 6120

• Poison Ivy Rorschach: The guitarist for The Cramps played a 1958 6120 which she considered her favorite instrument

• Malcolm Young: The AC/DC rhythm guitarist occasionally used a 6120

• Manu Chao: Has used a 6120 as his primary live performance guitar since 2002

Selling Your 1960 Gretsch 6120

If you own a 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody (or any vintage Gretsch guitar), Edgewater Guitars offers several advantages over traditional selling options:

The Edgewater Advantage

• Higher Purchase Offers: We typically pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops for premium vintage instruments, recognizing their true collector value

• Expert Authentication: Our team specializes in identifying and authenticating vintage Gretsch guitars, ensuring you receive the true market value

• Immediate Cash Payment: No waiting for consignment sales or dealing with unreliable private buyers

• Zero Hassle Process: We handle all logistics, even for high-value instruments

• No Seller Fees: Unlike online marketplaces that charge 10-15% in fees, we offer a straightforward purchase price

• Privacy and Security: Discreet transactions for valuable vintage instruments

Common Selling Challenges We Solve

• Underpaying Dealers: Many local shops lack expertise in vintage Gretsch valuation, resulting in lowball offers

• Private Sale Headaches: Avoid tire-kickers, no-shows, and payment issues common with private sales

• Authentication Uncertainty: Our experts can verify originality and condition, identifying valuable features that others might miss

• Shipping Concerns: We handle all logistics for safe transport of your valuable instrument

• Market Knowledge Gap: Benefit from our extensive knowledge of the current vintage market values

FAQ: 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody

How do I determine if my Gretsch 6120 is from 1960?

The most reliable method is checking the serial number (34000-38999 range for 1960 models) through the bass-side f-hole. Additionally, 1960 models have a 2.5" body depth, V-style Bigsby, Filter'Tron pickups (some with patent numbers), and a zero fret. Use our free Gretsch Serial Number Lookup Tool for definitive dating information.

What is the difference between a 1960 6120 and a 1959 6120?

The primary differences are the body depth (reduced from 2.75" to 2.5" in 1960) and the Bigsby tailpiece (changed from a black enamel-faced B6 to a V-style Gretsch by Bigsby in 1960). Additionally, some 1960 models began to feature patent numbers on the Filter'Tron pickups.

How much is a 1960 Gretsch 6120 worth in 2025?

Excellent all-original examples typically range from $11,000-$13,500, with museum-quality specimens reaching $14,000-$16,000. The 1960 model has appreciated significantly from its original $425 list price and the approximately $7,500 value cited by Premier Guitar in 2017.

Did Chet Atkins actually play the 6120 model?

While the 6120 bore his name, Chet Atkins actually preferred the Country Gentleman model (6122) for most of his playing. Atkins was photographed with the 6120 but used it less frequently than the Country Gentleman, which he had more direct input in designing.

When did Gretsch change the 6120 to a double-cutaway design?

The double-cutaway design was introduced in 1962, making the 1960 model one of the last years of the original single-cutaway design that has become iconic among collectors.

What makes the 1960 6120 more desirable than later models?

The 1960 model represents the perfected version of the original single-cutaway design with premium features: real f-holes (versus later painted versions), Filter'Tron pickups, the refined V-style Bigsby, zero fret, and the ideal 2.5" body depth. It predates the Baldwin acquisition (1967) and subsequent quality control issues.

How can I tell if my 6120's Filter'Tron pickups are original?

Original 1960 Filter'Trons have either "PAT. APPLIED FOR" or patent numbers on their bases, correct pole piece spacing, and proper gold-plated covers with the correct aging patina. The pickup resistance typically measures between 7.2-7.8K ohms.

What type of case came with the 1960 Gretsch 6120?

The original case was a white "cowboy" hardshell case with a distinctive Western-styled exterior and plush interior. Original cases in good condition can add 5-10% to a guitar's value.

Conclusion

The 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody represents a pinnacle moment in the model's evolution. With its refined features, ideal body dimensions, and premium appointments, it captures the essence of what makes vintage Gretsch instruments so coveted.

As a transitional instrument—emerging from the excessively Western-styled early models but preceding the major redesign of 1962—the 1960 6120 offers the perfect balance of traditional craftsmanship and practical refinements. Its distinctive Western Orange finish, dual Filter'Tron pickups, and single-cutaway hollow body create an unmistakable aesthetic that remains iconic in American guitar design.

For collectors, the 1960 6120 represents an important investment opportunity, with values steadily appreciating as these instruments become increasingly scarce. For players, it offers a playing experience and tonal palette that modern reproductions strive to capture but seldom fully achieve.

If you own a 1960 Gretsch 6120 or are considering selling one, Edgewater Guitars provides the expertise, market knowledge, and premium offers needed to ensure you receive the true value for these exceptional instruments. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation valuation.

Resources and References

Books and Publications

• Ball, Edward. Gretsch 6120: The History of a Legendary Guitar. Schiffer Publishing, 2010.

• Bacon, Tony. 50 Years of Gretsch Electrics. Backbeat Books, 2005.

• Scott, Jay. Gretsch: The Guitars of the Fred Gretsch Company. Centerstream Publications, 1992.

• Ball, Edward. Ball's Manual of Gretsch Guitars: 1950s. Schiffer Publishing, 2014.

Edgewater Guitar Resources

• Gretsch Serial Number Lookup Tool

• Filter'Tron Pickup Identification Guide

• Chet Atkins Model Timeline: 1954-1980

• How to Spot Refinished Gretsch Guitars

• Gretsch Date Code Decoder for Vintage Models

Online References

• Premier Guitar's Vintage Vault feature on the 1960 Gretsch 6120

• Gretsch Official Serial Number Guidelines

• The Music Emporium Vintage 6120 Analysis

This comprehensive guide to the 1960 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins Hollowbody was prepared by Edgewater Guitars' team of vintage instrument specialists. Information sources include direct examination of numerous original 1960 examples, vintage Gretsch catalogs, and respected references including Edward Ball's "Gretsch 6120: The History of a Legendary Guitar" and the Official Vintage Guitar Price Guide.