1961 Gretsch Duo Jet

First double-cutaway Duo Jet. The body redesign improved upper-fret access while maintaining the chambered mahogany construction and Filter'Tron pickups.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$10,000$20,000
Very Good
$6,500$10,000
Good
$4,100$6,500
Fair
$2,000$4,100

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

Specifications

Body WoodMahogany (chambered body)
Neck WoodMaple
FingerboardEbony
Scale Length24.500"
Frets22
Pickup ConfigHH
BridgeSpace Control bridge, optional Bigsby
TunersGrover Imperial
Finish OptionsJet Black (sparkle)
Est. Production580

Pickups & Electronics

Two Filter'Tron humbuckers. Double-cutaway body introduced for the Duo Jet.

What Changed in 1961

The Duo Jet transitioned to a double-cutaway body — following the same pattern as the 6120 and White Falcon. The new body provided better upper-fret access while maintaining the chambered construction.

Collector's Notes

Single-cutaway (1953-1960) vs double-cutaway (1961+) distinction matters for collectors. Single-cutaway examples are generally more valued. Both body styles are excellent instruments.