In 1951, when Gibson unveiled its premier L-5CES electric archtop, the Fred Gretsch Guitar Co. responded with its own contender, the Electro II model. Originally identified as model 6193 in blonde finish and 6192 in sunburst, it underwent a name change to the Country Club in 1954, coinciding with the release of this exemplary version from the Brooklyn factory. With notable musicians such as Al Caiola, Mundell Lowe, and Mary Osborne endorsing it, the Country Club stood as Gretsch's top-tier electric guitar, surpassing the L-5CES in sales for the remainder of the decade, as noted by Gretsch expert Jay Scott. Embraced by jazz and pop artists alike, the Country Club has remained a cherished fixture in the Gretsch lineup to this day.
This 1956 example is in excellent original condition with the exception of an added bigsby, a replaced bridge, and replaced pickguard and truss rod cover.
OHSC included.
