1962 Gretsch White Falcon

The double-cutaway White Falcon — a different instrument from the large single-cut original. Lighter, more playable, and retaining all the visual drama of the White Falcon.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$20,000$40,000
Very Good
$13,000$20,000
Good
$8,000$13,000
Fair
$4,000$8,000

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

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Specifications

Body WoodMaple (double-cutaway thinline body — major change from single-cut)
Neck WoodMaple
FingerboardEbony (gold sparkle binding)
Scale Length25.500"
Frets21
Pickup ConfigHH
BridgeSpace Control bridge, Bigsby B6
TunersGrover Imperial (gold-plated)
Finish OptionsWhite with gold sparkle binding
Est. Production250

Pickups & Electronics

Two Filter'Tron humbuckers. Gold-plated covers. Space Control bridge.

What Changed in 1962

The White Falcon transitioned to a thinline double-cutaway body — the same major change as the 6120. The twin-falcon headstock inlays and gold sparkle trim remained. The double-cut body is lighter and more ergonomic.

Collector's Notes

Single-cutaway (1955-1961) vs double-cutaway (1962+) — the single-cut commands higher premiums. Double-cut versions are still magnificent and significantly more affordable.

How to Authenticate a 1962 Gretsch White Falcon

Gretsch serial numbers use a system where the first digits indicate month/year — verify against known Gretsch serial tables for 1962. Numbers are on the headstock back. Filter'Tron humbucking pickups should be present (replaced DynaSonics around 1958). Verify originality. Check binding condition carefully — Gretsch binding from this era is notorious for deterioration and shrinkage. Replacement binding is difficult to match correctly. Distinctive white finish with gold sparkle binding and gold-plated hardware. White nitro yellows to warm cream over decades. Gold hardware should show consistent aging. Falcon wing headstock inlay must be original. Verify all hardware (bridge, tailpiece, tuners, knobs, switches) matches documented specifications for 1962. Laminated maple body — tap test for correct hollow-body resonance. Original case with Gretsch logo adds provenance.