Gretsch Guitars - new vs. vintage - what would you buy?!

Gretsch Guitars - new vs. vintage - what would you buy?

I generally prefer the vintage stuff and have a collection of vintage gibson and Fenders, but I need a decent hollowbody. With a Gretsch, I'd need to get a pre 1970s model (before the company went in the crapper for a decade or two) or a late 90s and beyond Japanese made model. Obviously I dig the vintage models, but worry about the playability of the older Gretsch. The new stuff - the Setzer, Horton Heat, and Nashville models are wicked cool, but made in Japan and may not have the resale value or mojo of a vintage model but will likely be more refined and easier to play. Any insight, thoughts or comments?

Yet another American based company fell victim!! Does Gretsch even have a custom shop anymore,that might be MADE IN U.S.A? If not,I see your quandry!! Thats a darn shame...I would have to keep my eyes open for "vintage" models in that case.Oh the days with the beautiful "Bigsby" tremolo's and the big sticker "MADE IN U.S.A"...makes you feel extremely lucky to find a vintage that hasn't been beat to heck....I guess at this point,try the import and see how ya like/dislike it.Maybe they aren't so bad,craftmanship and materials in my mind are HUGE aspects(besides tone,feel,playability)when purchasing a guitar. Case in point I recently bought a DEAN Dimebag RAZORBACK,and paid twice as much for the U.S.A. model,but compared to the import it blew it away.(fret work,bindings,craftmanship)Thi... is actually bumming me out...try before you buy my friend I guess is my advice.You seem on top of things..Good luck!!Thats sickening that Chet Atkins Signature Gretsch is an import?Sad...just plain sad.