Legend has it that Jimmie Webster was strolling through Gretsch’s drum department when he saw a technician applying a sparkly Nitron wrap to a drum shell. Keen to find any new angle for their new solid body, Webster asked if the same could be done on a guitar. So the Sparkle Jet was born. 

Initially only available in silver sparkle, with the change in design brought about in reply to Gibson’s in 1961, Gretsch offered finishes in Gold, Champagne, Tangerine or Burgundy. Its quite rare to find examples in any of these finishes but Champagne sparkle is one of the rarest and is one of only two that we are aware of right now..!

The guitar is in excellent condition. There are a few minor knocks but the body doesn’t show its 60+ years. The Nitron covered top is in excellent shape as is the binding. There are no signs of any repairs. There is a little discolouration on the upper bout. 

The neck too is a joy with no sign of any resets or repairs. The binding is free of any damage. The ebony fretboard and original too are in great shape. The lacquer has worn comfortably on the back.

The gold hardware has worn a little as you'd expect but there is no sign of corrosion. The Burns vibrato unit, introduced in 1961 to replace the Bisgby vibratos, works well and has tarnished a little.

Electrically everything is correct with no signs of any solder being disturbed. The original Filtertron Pickups show no sign of having been rewound or disturbed.

The guitar comes with its correct Gretsch hardshell case.

The lightweight chambered body is resonant and married to a pair of responsive Filtertron pickups makes for a potent package. The guitar is a joy to play with so many tones available. 

Sometimes a Gretsch is all you need and no one will miss you with this strapped around your neck. Grab this one before it gets away..