1968 Gretsch Country Gentleman

Early Baldwin-era Country Gentleman. Brooklyn factory quality is still acceptable. These instruments retain the Country Gentleman character but are less refined than pre-Baldwin examples.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$6,000$12,000
Very Good
$3,800$6,000
Good
$2,400$3,800
Fair
$1,200$2,400

* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology

Specifications

Body WoodMaple (thinline double-cutaway — painted f-holes)
Neck WoodMaple
FingerboardEbony
Scale Length25.500"
Frets21
Pickup ConfigHH
BridgeSpace Control bridge, Bigsby B6
TunersGrover Imperial
Finish OptionsWalnut Brown
Est. Production600

Pickups & Electronics

Two Filter'Tron humbuckers. Baldwin era — Brooklyn factory continuing production.

What Changed in 1968

Second year of Baldwin ownership. Brooklyn factory production continues with the same workforce. Cost-cutting measures are being introduced gradually. Binding deterioration becomes a concern on instruments of this age.

Collector's Notes

Early Baldwin Country Gentlemen are undervalued player instruments. Quality is better than late Baldwin production. Binding inspection is essential — Gretsch binding deterioration is a known issue.