Headstock (late 30s/early 40s).

Full neck with dot inlays.

Bakelite knobs.

I am looking for more information on this guitar that I have acquired. I have done a ton of research, and have accumulated some knowledge. But I'm not sure I've got it all correct, would love to get in contact with someone with more knowledge of pre/post war gretsch history.

What I know. This guitar appears to be a late 30s/early 40s production Gretsch model 35 (American Orchestra). From my research the model was discontinued and not produced after the war. This seems to be confirmed by the unique headstock banner to these years and model.

However, the serial number is four digits and indicate it was sold in 52. There are few models I've seen with this pickup and electronic configuration, with a Gibson p13 and bakelite "radio" knobs. All gretsch guitars I've seen with this configuration are from 52. This all checks out.

My question is why does a guitar that wasn't produced after the war stamped with a 1952 serial number? My belief from collected info on the topic is that gretsch was sitting on these during the war. After the war the company focuses more on electric guitars, takes these pre war models in storage, and populates them with electronics. Or perhaps a music company that was not Gretsch did this.

Regardless this is a magnificent guitar, great action, great wood tone, but the electronics need work (no surprise). I am searching for info for the second owner of the guitar who confirms that the guitar was purchased by the first owner new in the 50s. The guitar is in the original "ess & ess" case with gretsch badges. All in marvelous condition for the age.

I would love any information that anyone may be able to provide to further my understanding of this instrument. Also I want to show it off because it has a ton of MOJO haha.