Gretsch 7681 Atkins Super Axe 1979 Ebony Stain

This is a very rare 1979 Gretsch 7681 Atkins “Super Axe” electric solid-body guitar, made in the USA, finished in Transparent Ebony (or “Ebony Stain”). It represents the final collaboration between Gretsch and Chet Atkins before he moved on to Gibson. Many of these instruments were produced with unique onboard effects and special hardware.

The body is crafted from maple (solid or semi-hollow/laminated maple depending on verification) and it features an ebony fingerboard with pearloid (or mother-of-pearl) inlays, bound for a premium look.

The controls are mounted on the distinctive “football-shaped” control plate, as originally fitted to the Super Axe models, housing switches and knobs for the built-in phaser and compressor circuits. This guitar delivers the collector’s appeal of boutique electronics plus excellent playing capability.

All electronics function perfectly — the phasor and compressor work exactly as designed, offering tonal options far beyond a standard guitar of the era. The frets are very good, and setup is also in excellent. With low action and plenty of fret life remaining. It has a vintage Bigsby tremolo fitted, which operates smoothly and adds to the instrument’s versatility and vibe.

There are minor age-related marks such as small chips and dings, but overall the instrument is in excellent condition for its age, especially given its rarity and original specification. It is supplied with a high-quality Hiscox hard-shell case.

For serious players and collectors: this is a superb example of the 1979 Super Axe, offering both collectible value and a high-performance instrument with unusual onboard features and elegant appointments.