1981 Gretsch White Falcon.

The serial number indicates the last month of '81, so this is probably the last made Single Cut Falcon of the Baldwin era (only some double cuts are known from that last period).

I bought this guitar in 1985. I collected it personally from the legendary guitarist Ted Oberg of Livin' Blues fame. The original case still shows the 'Livin' Blues' tag. At the time, Ted was living at his mother's Scheveningen home, in the attic, where his then growing collection of early serial Gibson models was displayed.

Since then, the guitar saw some serious rock 'n' roll action.

It is featured on the now collectible 1986 (Rockhouse/ Kix4U) LP 'Listen To What Archie Sez' by psycho cult band Archie.

I held on to the guitar till now, mostly for sentimental reasons. After the band Archie, the guitar was on display but hardly played.

Which is a shame for such a great sounding instrument.

It features the original Blacktop pickups. Both with a pretty high output, giving the sturdy sounds that we know so well from the likes of The Cult's Eric Duffy, who played some Falcons from that era.

On the back the push button 'pillow' cushion is still intact.

The gold hardware and Bigsby (with Chet Atkins arm) are worn, showing the alloy under the gold coat.

The original lacquer has yellowed a bit over time. Some dings and signs of use complete the story.

Due to the centre block construction the weight is 4,25 kg (like the average Les Paul).

This Falcon is on offer now, in it's original case.