Any other early Viking owners out there? Mine seems pretty unusual and I'd like to compare a few things. I'm including a pic of it. Not that it does not have the tuning fork and never did. It also has the Webster trem instead of a Bigsby. Also, the pickguard doesn't have any type of Viking logo. Anyone else have one with these features? Thanks!
1964 Viking
- Thread starter 67cc
- Start date
I'll guess that this one is from the #704xx batch... if so it's a '65 model year example. I've documented three others from this batch, and yours looks pretty standard to those. What questions do you have?
It is a 704** serial. I thought that would put it in 64 based on the Gretsch product dating page?
DaddyDog
Country Gent
Wayne Gretschzky is a Gretsch historian, and author of Gretsch books (Edward Ball). Trust his info over the product dating page you're looking at.
I have a 1968 Viking (serial 58196). It appears to have a normal Bigsby, and Viking logo. Pics here show a repro guard, but the original is in the case.
I have a 1968 Viking (serial 58196). It appears to have a normal Bigsby, and Viking logo. Pics here show a repro guard, but the original is in the case.
Attachments
MBERTHOLD
Country Gent
I feel silly...I thought it was all about a Hagstrom..(note to myself:checked hagstrom viking production started in 65)
Thats a very cool Gretsch, I did not know about the Vikings
looks fantastic
Thats a very cool Gretsch, I did not know about the Vikings
looks fantasticThanks for the info, and SWEET guitar! I'll go with 65.
Thanks! It does seem weird that there were two Viking models made by different companies, at the same time. I wonder if Gretsch considered legal action over the name. Reminds me of the Fender Broadcaster situation.I feel silly...I thought it was all about a Hagstrom..(note to myself:checked hagstrom viking production started in 65)
Thats a very cool Gretsch, I did not know about the Vikings
MBERTHOLD
Country Gent
Dont know, I only know Hagstrom "still makes the Viking
I'd bet that your pots are dated April-May '65. I've documented quite few Gretsch examples from this serial number range with such pots.
I'm sure you are right. I am going to check this evening or tomorrow. I am really curious now. Thanks!
Well, you are absolutely correct. The pots date to 1965. I couldn't make out the week, but I bet you are right about it being in April-May. Thanks
New Jersey
Electromatic
Hello, I have an early one I just got, I would like to ask you about your guitar and the tremelo arm assembly in particular. Thanks
New Jersey ( Dave)
bare_bodkin
Electromatic
Just like the viking that The Monkees had in their arsenal!
New Jersey
Electromatic
Yes I have a 1964 Viking in green. What would you like to know about it?
