Definitely not a common problem.
You say it's a "1958". Are you meaning a reissue? If it is and you want it taken care of under warranty you'll have to send it or take it to an authorized warranty station wherever that may be. Perhaps the Gretsch site will say where it is to be sent.
The thing is, you'll be stuck for the freight both ways so If it were me I'd be inclined to call around and find someone local who will check out the wiring harness. It sounds to me like it is either a bad solder joint or some wires crossed in the harness somewhere. Austin is a pretty goodsized town and should have something in the way of a competent repair guy or two.
Thats' how I see it, anyway...
Addendum:
I had a look-see and these are the businesses that are Gretsch Dealers in Austin:
http://www.gretschguitars.com/dealersAustin, TX, USA Note: I would NOT reccomend Any Guitar Center store for this kind of thing...
STRAIT MUSIC COMPANY
2428 W BEN WHITE BLVD
AUSTIN, TX 78704-7526
512 476 6927
3.81 miles
GUITAR RESURRECTION
813 MORROW ST
AUSTIN, TX 78757
512 478 0095
5.57 miles
GUITAR CENTER #446 AUSTIN
2525 W ANDERSON LANE SUITE 200
AUSTIN, TX 78757
512-419-1717
6.11 miles
GUITAR CENTER #460 SOUTH AUSTIN
5300 S MO PAC EXPY SUITE 103
AUSTIN, TX 78749-1109
512-891-0297
6.43 miles