‘Chet Atkins is to Gretsch what Les Paul is to Gibson. Their endorsement of electric guitars, let alone their influence on the development of music technology and recording technique, is legendary. And, as well as being among the leading artists in their field, they also had more than a passing interest in science, engineering and inventing new technology - they were what you might call ‘renaissance men’.
The 6122 Chet Atkins Country Gentleman (often referred to as the ‘Country Gent’) represents a landmark in the history of guitar evolution.’
The 6122 Country Gent is a standout example of Gretsch's finest craftsmanship, representing the pinnacle of the brand’s offerings in its era. An integral part of the Beatles sound, George Harrison's 6122 contributed to many hits in their early days. This 1967 model is fully hollow, double-cut, and made from laminated maple with a matching maple neck. The set-in neck, shaped in a comfortable C profile with a standard back contour, offers a smooth, easy feel. Known for its rich, silky tone, this guitar appeals to jazz, country, classic rock, and rockabilly musicians alike, combining luxurious sound with timeless looks. Despite its 57-year history, the guitar’s body remains clean and well-preserved, with only light buckle rash and minor marks, showing it has been cared for with the utmost attention.
A significant highlight of this Country Gent is the carefully restored binding, which was painstakingly repaired by industry expert luthier, Jeff Mallia. Binding rot is a common issue with vintage Gretsch guitars and is often difficult to repair properly, but Jeff’s expert restoration work has ensured the binding remains intact, adding to the instrument’s unique value and longevity. His meticulous attention to detail has preserved the original aesthetic, giving the guitar an authentic vintage look that is rare among models of this age. Jeff’s work on the binding enhances its appearance while retaining the instrument's classic character and playability. Click here to watch a video of Jeff documenting the restoration of this guitar.
This guitar is also notable as one of the last made under the supervision of Fred Gretsch before the company was acquired by Baldwin in July 1967 (this particular instrument was crafted in May). Jeff Mallia’s restoration not only included the binding but also involved a refret and other careful adjustments to maintain the guitar’s playability while honouring its vintage appeal. In doing so, this Gretsch stays in tune perfectly with excellent intonation. In an accompanying video interview, Jeff shares insights into the complex work involved in restoring this piece, discussing his approach to maintaining its original qualities. This guitar, complete with its original Gretsch hard-shell case, is a valuable collector’s item and an exceptional find for players.
