If there's one instrument that illustrates perfectly the vibe and sheer desire afforded by Gretsch guitars, it has to the White Falcon. Although available in a number of configurations these days, the opulent mix of gold hardware, the snow white finish and a sparkly binding fashioned from crushed sea shells is class in a perfectly formed glass.

With more tonal features than most modern guitars and a gorgeously skinny neck, the Falcon has a rock credential all its own: try Malcolm Young, Billy Duffy and John Frusciante for starters...

Price: £2459 (BUY: Thomann | GuitarGuitar | Coda Music)

Mid-price choice: Gretsch Electromatic G5120 (£649)(BUY: Thomann | Soundslive | GuitarGuitar| Coda Music)

Budget buy: Epiphone Wildkat (£329) (BUY: Andertons Music Co. | Coda Music)