Damn, what an amazing instrument, and for such gem, a little background is welcome: back in 2002, when Fender took over the manufacturing, distribution and marketing of Gretsch guitars, it was Mike Lewis who steered the ship. A killer guitarist with sharp instincts for authenticity and marketing, Lewis had already spent over a decade at Fender—first with amps, then guitars. The perfect guy to spark a brand-new golden era for Gretsch.

By the early 2000s the Fender Custom Shop was already world-famous. Out of the small crew of master builders, only two had serious hollow-body chops: Chris Fleming and Stephen Stern. Stern studied with absolute legends—Jimmy D’Aquisto and Robert Benedetto—before joining Fender’s Custom Shop in ’93. By 2005, with Benedetto’s deal done, Stern grabbed the wheel and turned his upstairs corner of the shop into what essentially became the Gretsch Custom Shop. Ask around—many will tell you he’s the very best in the game.

And this guitar proves it. A 2016 Gretsch G6120WCST Chet Atkins, Masterbuilt by Stephen Stern himself. It’s got the full western vibe—cactus and steer head inlays, that classic G-brand, gold hardware—all wrapped up in Stern’s unmatched craftsmanship. The build quality and detail go way beyond a production model. Acoustic it’s lively, plugged in it delivers that unmistakable Gretsch chime, and with just a touch of natural playwear it’s got the perfect mojo. This second hand instrumetn is in absolute top notch condition, and belonger to a very good guitar player and Gretsch collector. Glossy finish, neck and frets in superb shape, hardware is untouched. Electronics are all stock, and both pickups sound gorgeous—pure Gretsch, with plenty of tonal flavors thanks to the switching. The Bigsby feels beautifully springy too.

Were you looking for a rare, drop-dead gorgeous Masterbuilt Gretsch? Stop right here. This might just be the one. And as Mike Lewis passed away in March 2024 and with Stern having left Gretsch in late 2023, there won’t be another like it…

It comes with its leather-covered hardshell case, hangtags, and COA signed by Stephen Stern.