The transition period: Martin moved from scalloped to straight braces around late 1944, and replaced herringbone purfling with simpler binding around 1946. These changes mark the dividing line between "pre-war" and "post-war" Martin construction.
Decode Martin serial numbers →A Brooklyn-era Gretsch from the golden age. The 6120, White Falcon, and Country Gentleman were all born here. Eddie Cochran, Duane Eddy, and Chet Atkins were all playing Gretsch. These are the most valuable and collectible Gretsch instruments.
Decode Gretsch serial numbers →Rickenbacker invented the electric guitar. Adolph Rickenbacker and George Beauchamp created the "Frying Pan" lap steel in 1931 — the world's first commercially produced electric stringed instrument.
Decode Rickenbacker serial numbers →Is your guitar from 1944?
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