1948 Gretsch Jet '21 Jet Black, Excellent, Original Hard

Here’s a super rare and beautiful Gretsch archtop from 1948. We don’t have a lot of information on this model but we understand that very few (perhaps fewer than 50) were made between the years of 1947 and 1948. The Jet “21” is an acoustic archtop guitar with a 24 3/4 inch scale and a 16 inch lower bout. Elegant triple ply (white-black-white) pickguard. Double bound body and single bound headstock with unbound neck. Small pearloid dot markers. 3-on-a-plate tuners with ivoroid buttons. Engraved trapeze tailpiece and adjustable rosewood bridge.

Whenever we see these late forties archtops in the online market they’re usually pretty beat up. But not this one. It’s in unbelievable condition with its black finish literally glowing and the hardware shiny and unblemished. There are a few small nicks and scratches here and there, but nothing of note. There is some minor shrinkage of the binding at the heel cap and end block but nothing that requires attention. The guitar is crack free and we see no sign of repairs.

The guitar is well set up and the action is perfect. It’s hard to believe a 70 year old guitar can look and play so remarkably well. It’s a collector’s and a player’s dream guitar for sure. Rare, beautiful, great action, nice sound. And it comes with original purchase receipt, warranty card, and other documents. This 1948 Gretsch Jet “21” really checks all the boxes.

DETAILS
Year: 1948

Make: Gretsch

Model: Jet "21" Archtop

Color: Jet Black

Case: Period Gretsch Hardshell Case

Weight: 5 pounds 6 ounces

Condition: Excellent

Modifications: None

Comments: Rare, beautiful, great action, nice sound. And it comes with original purchase receipt, warranty card, and other documents. This 1948 Gretsch Jet "21" really checks all the boxes.