I don't work in a guitar store or for Gretsch.Zurdo wrote:yes Peter, I see your point, but for people like me who don't work in a guitar store, or who don't work for Gretsch, confusion is the word
Like Fender and Gibson, Gretsch has had an evolution of features. They offer them in different measures on different models. The guitar in the picture (without the zero-fret) has "Electromatic" on the headstock. That denotes a budget-level guitar that is entry-level and will have less features.
Like Fender and Gibson, Gretsch has evolved to the point of offering standard models with modern conveniences as well as reissues or reproductions, what ever word you wish to use.
Like Fender or Gibson, Gretsch will not offer all vintage spec features on guitars where it's inappropriate. If you want it in Rickenbacker terms, it would be like having two Ric 360's side by side, a reissue to vintage specs and a modern one. While it would be inappropriate for the vintage reissue to have a 24-fret neck, the new one will. Same with the reissue having hi-gain pickups...it wouldn't be appropriate for the model.
Gretsch does something similar, and while their model numbers are somewhat confusing, some reading about the models made will help. They have a modern Duo-Jet, similar to an American Standard Strat or a Gibson Les Paul Standard. It's a basic model that satisfies modern requirements. They have a reissue 1962 Duo Jet with double cutaway body, '60's era switching and a zero-fret. Then there is a 1957 and 56 reissue with their appropriate features. It's like Fender had an American Standard with a 22-fret neck. Then there is a '62 Strat with Rosewood 21-fret board. Then there is a '57 reissue with maple board.
I don't know how else to explain that there are models with and without. Not every '50's or '60's era Gretsch had them and that's shown in the new reissues.
