Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I haven't posted here in a while so I thought I would just jump in with both feet !
This model, the LTV, is actually quite rare. Laq. finish, nickle plated metal parts, the TV Jones pu's, Smoke Green To-tone.
It can twang like a Tele or roar like a Dot Neck 335. The fit and finish is flawless. I have managed to keep it from harm and still play and enjoy it for seven years now.

Absolutely excellent Kevin. Thanks for showcasing this model.

One of these appeared on the tv show "Hardcore Pawn" the other day. I was pleasantly surprised when pawn broker Les Gold said "That's a Double Anniversary!" Usually these shows get info wrong on guitars.

Lovely guitar - is the Bigsby original? I see most of these with the Gretsch trapeze, though my personal preference would be to have a Bigsby.

Yes the Bigsby is factory, Evan.
Many people confuse the 6118-T with the 6118-LTV.

The 6118-T is the standard model with the optional Bigsby. It has chrome hardware, polli finish, standard pickups, no tressel bracing. I believe it is still in production. Made in Korea. Much more common.
Still a very nice instrument, to be sure !

The 6118-LTV in 'To-Tone Smoke Green' was made in Japan, during 2007 only. [Other colors did come later.] Said to have been made in very low numbers, the LTV featured the excellent TV Jones pickups, tressel bracing and the Lacquer finished body and neck. Along with nickle hardware and Gretsch/Bigsby it has a distinctive look in person. It is a 'custom shop' quality instrument. The original difference in cost between the two models was about $800.

I may have some details wrong or have left something out. I don't want to sound like THE expert on the subject. I just did my homework back in 2007, before I plunked down the
extra cash for an LTV model. At the time I had to explain it to my local [music store] Gretsch dealer too.

My sole Gretsch is a MIJ 6119 from around '95. They are fabulously made guitars, as well as being great players. If I had unlimited cash and space I'd love a 6118 LTV and a Cadillac Green Country Club. I guess dreams are free....

My sole Gretsch was a 1961 6117. Jim Boyle now has that wonderful guitar; I am sure he is getting far more mileage out of it that I ever did.

The Anniversary models may be my favorite. I've been lucky enough to have owned several Gretches, but my 6118T is my favorite, and one I hope to have forever. Mine is two-tone as well, but a Bamboo Yellow top with Copper Metallic back and sides. I added a TV Classic and a Magnatron, but I can't imagine a much better hollow body guitar for me. The only feature I question are the side fret marker indicators, which are just the edge of the thumbnail inlays and quite difficult to see, but I absolutely love it.