“Uncompromising power and fidelity in stunning style”: Gretsch completes its latest limited-edition lineup with two drop-dead-gorgeous Pristine LTD Electromatic models
Gretsch is certainly no stranger to decking out its electric guitars with a limited-edition overhaul every once in a while, but its latest venture into the world of special occasion six-strings might just be its best yet.
To that end, feast your eyes on Gretsch's Pristine LTD collection – a two models that looks to “provide essential Gretsch power, style, and performance” in a rather stunning fashion.
Like we say, limited-edition Gretsches are a common occurrence – peep last October's Professional Edition models – and these Pristines do an admirable job of continuing that fine form by bringing to the table ultra-luxe cosmetics.
As Gretsch itself puts it, “Inspired by the classic sounds of the ‘50s & ‘60s, these no-nonsense instruments embody style and playability like no other.”
Two Electromatic Pristine LTD formats have been unveiled: the Jet Single-Cut and Center Block Double-Cut, both of which boast gold Bigsby tremolo tailpieces and classy gold hardware.
Understandably, there are a few appointments that set them apart. The double-cut model, for example, features a mahogany body with a chambered spruce center block, which in turn is used to anchor two P-90E pickups.
It also has a larger B70 Bigsby, and its own assortment of finishes on tap: Dark Cherry Metallic, White Gold and Petrol.
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The Jet, meanwhile, has a chambered mahogany body with a maple top for a better acoustic balance, and comes equipped with a set of none-more-Gretsch FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups.
Here, a Bigsby B50 is utilized, alongside an anchored Adjusto-Matic bridge, and the finish options include Petrol, White Gold and Mako – the latter of which carries a lush blue-ish sparkle hue.
Some more universal specs include a U-shaped mahogany neck with a 12”-radius laurel fingerboard, 22 medium jumbo frets and pearloid Neo-Classic thumbnail inlays. Also, despite the different electronics, both guitars also have the same control circuit.
That means both have a master volume with a treble bleed circuit, a master tone knob and pickup-specific volume parameters. There’s also a three-position pickup selector, as you’d expect.
As for price, both weigh in under the $1,000 mark. The Jet is the more affordable model at $749, while its double-cut sibling has a price tag of $899.
Both Pristine LTD models are available now. Visit Gretsch to find out more.
In recent weeks, Gretsch's limited-edition activities have spilled into the firm's artist ranks. Since the start of the year, Gretsch has debuted signature Broadkaster guitars for boygenius, Portugal. The Man, and Chris Rocha.
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Matt is a Senior Staff Writer, writing for Guitar World, Guitarist and Total Guitar. He has a Masters in the guitar, a degree in history, and has spent the last 16 years playing everything from blues and jazz to indie and pop. When he’s not combining his passion for writing and music during his day job, Matt records for a number of UK-based bands and songwriters as a session musician.
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