Ultra Rare, all original 1981-Serial Rickenbacker B (Beatles) Series 12-String developed by Rickenbacker during a transitional phase; after F.C Hall had stepped down as CEO but before John Hall had taken over.
The shortlived series ran from 1982-1984 (officially) however was only ever produced in very limited batches and never appeared in Rickenbacker catalogues, only internal data sheets & a standalone promotional poster.
This 360/12 WB ("With Binding") features all appointments used in the original promotional photo, however by the time the series was in full swing, they eventually transitioned into using Hi-Gain single coils as opposed to 'Toaster'-style pickups - however predates the officially recorded run at Rickenbacker.
The rarest of all B Series instruments, this instrument (which was recorded by Rickenbacker three different ways at the time - '360/12WBB', '360/12WB' & '360/12B WBB') was designed to evoke George Harrison's original 360/12 but incidentally, with numerous historical inaccuracies such as:
- Elongated headstock design
- Phillips-head screws
- "R" Tailpiece
- Silver Cap Knobs
- 24-frets
- Bound neck bottom
- Rounded Triangle inset poured-resin inlays
- Hybrid Hi-Gain/Toaster Pickups - essentially 12k ceramic Hi-Gain single coils with Toaster covers (they actually do a pretty good job for not being alnico).
However the 360/12 WB gets plenty of other features correct like X-Bracing, Back-painted Plexi-glass truss rod covers, Kluson tuners (Kluson had run bankrupt and well & truly closed its doors in 1981), Stereo Outputs, multi ply neck construction & lacquer finish.
These early 1980s Ricky's are often lauded by players and collectors as some of the best Rickenbacker builds in their long history of electric guitars & as close as to the build, neck profiles & finish jobs as the original 1960s run, albeit with considerably better quality control & playability.
Designed & made in California, USA.
This example includes it's original hard shell case (red lining & in collectors condition), original warranty registration card, original unopened micro-fibre cloth & un-opened Rickenbacker-branded vintage saddle-style leather "No Mis-Hap" strap - same that was worn by the likes of John Lennon, Tom Petty, Paul Weller & George Harrison.
Very minor fretwear and beautiful lacquer checking on top, sides & fingerboard.
There is however a lacquer crack area near the end of the neck that has developed, bearing some wood.
Also included with this sale is a complimentary set of 'Rickysounds' Compressed Roundwound 12-String Set.
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