Gretsch has just set the guitar world ablaze with a duo of limited-edition releases that are as easy on the ears as they are on the eyes. The Nashville-based legends have officially dropped the G6134TG-58 Custom Penguin and the G6136TG-58 Custom Falcon in a mesmerizing Nightbird Emerald finish.
If you’ve ever wanted an instrument that looks like it was plucked from a high-end 1950s ballroom but plays with 2026 reliability, these “fine-feathered” birds are calling your name.
Period-Correct Soul, Modern Heart
At first glance, these guitars are a masterclass in “Golden Era” aesthetics. Both models are decked out in shimmering metallic emerald paint, complemented by gold hardware, Grover Imperial tuners, and that iconic Bigsby B6GP vibrato.
However, Gretsch hasn’t just rested on its vintage laurels. Both models feature Luminlay glow-in-the-dark side dots, a godsend for players performing on dimly lit stages. It’s a subtle “modern twist” that doesn’t ruin the vintage vibe but significantly improves the playing experience.
The Specs: Penguin vs. Falcon
While they share the same “Nightbird” DNA, these are two very different beasts under the hood:
| Feature | G6134TG-58 Custom Penguin | G6136TG-58 Custom Falcon |
| Body Type | Chambered Mahogany (Single-cut) | Fully Hollow Laminated Maple |
| Bracing | N/A | 1959 Trestle Bracing |
| Body Depth | Standard Solid-body | 2.75” |
| Pickups | TV Jones Ray Butts Ful-Fidelity | TV Jones Ray Butts Ful-Fidelity |
| Neck Profile | Standard “U” | Standard “U” |
| Bridge | Space Control w/ Pinned Ebony Base | Space Control w/ Pinned Ebony Base |
That “Unpotted” Sparkle
Perhaps the most interesting choice is the inclusion of TV Jones Ray Butts Ful-Fidelity Filter-Tron pickups. Built to Ray’s original 1950s schematics, these pickups are unpotted.
While modern pickups are often dipped in wax to prevent feedback, leaving them “raw” allows for a more three-dimensional, harmonic richness. It gives the player that legendary Gretsch “sparkle” and a dynamic range that feels alive in your hands—just be careful with your gain stages if you’re standing right in front of a cranked stack.
Verdict: The Ultimate Statement Piece
These aren’t just guitars; they are heirloom-quality art pieces. Whether you’re chasing the “slapback” echo of a 1950s rockabilly star or looking for a versatile, high-fidelity machine for modern indie or church music, these limited runs deliver. The price is steep, but for a “Made in Japan” Terada-built Gretsch of this caliber, it’s exactly what the market expects.
Score: 9.4 / 10
Pros: Breathtaking finish, top-tier TV Jones electronics, practical modern upgrades like Luminlay dots.
Cons: The unpotted pickups may be too “microphonic” for high-gain players; premium price point.
Price & Where To Buy
Andertons – Penguin £3699 and Custom Falcon £4299
Guitar Center – Penguin $3699.99 and Custom Falcon $4299.99
Sweetwater – Penguin $3699.99 and Custom Falcon $4299.99
Thomann – Penguin €4129 and Custom Falcon €4729
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a “chambered” body on the Penguin?
While the Penguin looks like a solid-body guitar, the mahogany interior has routed-out “chambers.” This reduces weight and adds a bit of acoustic resonance to the tone without the feedback issues of a full hollow-body.
What are Luminlay side dots?
They are fretboard markers on the side of the neck that absorb light and glow in the dark, helping you find your position on dark stages.
How much do they cost?
The Penguin is priced at £3,739 / $3,699, while the Falcon comes in at £4,399 / $4,299. Both include a deluxe hardshell case.
Are these limited editions?
Yes. These are part of a limited run, meaning once they are gone from retailers, you’ll likely have to hunt for them on the used market.
Servicing Suggestion: Pair either of these with a tweed-style tube amp and a touch of spring reverb for the ultimate tonal experience.
Are you a “Falcon” person or a “Penguin” person? Let us know which bird you’d rather take home!
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