Any info or thought on a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic?

[teleblooz]

Stopped by my favorite pawn shop yesterday and they had a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic for $449.00 with hard case.

It needs a good cleaning/disinfecting, set up and new strings, but other than that it was good to go. No cracks, splits or major dents and the electronics worked well with not crackling, shorting or futzy noises.

Since I have no need for another guitar, (let alone the money to fund it!) I did not ask what the bottom line was out the door. From prior dealings, I believe I could get it for somewhere between $350 - $375. Then I'd go on a search for a used set of TV Jones pups......

So, I need to ask those here in the know if this is even worth considering. Thanks!

 

[beaubrummels]

Re: Any info or thought on a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic?

Seems like a lot for a used China knock-off that now needs disinfecting.

 

[ehdwuld]

Re: Any info or thought on a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic?

I think they run just about $500 new

I wouldn't jump on that

*(Sent from my durned phone!)*

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Any info or thought on a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic?

Determine whether the example is Chinese or Japanese.

Back in the Summer, I started a thread about the Gretsch Stump-o-matic guitar. If the stock pickups had been TV Jones, it might have been worth purchasing the guitar just to rob those out before selling the rest on. There is still something slightly lumpen about MIC low and mid-price guitars.

 

[Securb]

Re: Any info or thought on a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic?

I haven't played any Fender/Gretschs that I would call outstanding. I have played a few that were downright horrible guitars.

 

[teleblooz]

Re: Any info or thought on a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic?

Thanks for the opinions. That is exactly what I was looking for. It's a China built (which I have no issues with) 5120. I'll let it pass! Thanks

 

[daan]

Re: Any info or thought on a used Gretsch 5120 Electromatic?

I have a Chinese Electromatic (it's not a 5120 though) and it's a fantastic guitar. I've had a few "real" USA-made Gretsches, and I'd take a new one over an old one any day. (For consistency and OVERALL quality, anyway) The old Gretsches were really hit-and-miss as far as build quality. Some are absolutely fantastic, and some are nice wall hangers... Every MIC Gretsch I've handled has pretty much been the same, though... Very well built, "quality" feeling instruments, not like comparing a MIA Fender and a cheap Squier at all. Although you probably could find a new one online for what this used one is going for...