75th Anniversary shindig?

[squirefan01]

True Eric. Looks great to me and I hope to get one.

[ajish4]

Hey Eric,

I realize you can't please everyone. I understand the $500.00 up charge for the limited edition thing, not a problem. Though, I think paying 2100.00+ MSRP is just too steep. In my limited scope, that's the cost of a C64 WITH the HS & toaster that I really love. Though choice.

I also realize RIC has no control over what its dealers charge. "Supply & demand", "money talks & BS walks", "collector value"....etc! I know, I know.

IMHO, when I see a HS & a toaster, I think RIC (thanks to Chris Squire). When I see the skunk stripe, same deal. I became RIC aware in 1977 so that time frame is what I have in mind.

The CB and full MOP inlays was before my time so they don't come to mind right off. The DOT neck, however (CS AGAIN) does. I think that each of us comes to the table with what their thoughts would represent what an Anniversary model is to them. I've heard some guys say the miss the 2 piece 80's PG, some the Schaller (sp) tuners.

I just thought RIC would have taken a little here, a little there from their products over the years. CB binding or sparkle full width MOP inlays, a HS or toaster, a skunk stripe, vintage tuners, thinner neck, split bridge, SOMETHING along those lines.

Ok, I've gone on long enough. I AM happy RIC did something to commemorate the 75th. It is special and I'm glad that 300 people will have a chance to nail one of these limited editions. I'd really like to see some better pictures. I'm sure it is a stunning color.

[leftybass]

These LE Rickenbackers are not too far off the mark of what was submitted as the 50th anniversary prototype,a 360/12...which I believe JH still has in his office. I'm not sure if the finish was a custom job(looked like an AG), but the nameplate was unique for the 50th, and it had gold machine heads.

[aceonbass]

I'm not disappointed at all. I think they're cool. A 660 in that color combo must look awesome. I only wish I had the 20% to put down on one, but alas I am tapped out for the forseeable future.

[incubus2432]

"It could have every option that everyone has mentioned here,horseshoes,checkers,etc. etc. all dressed up and pretty and those same people will then complain that we aren't selling them for $1000.00..There's always gonna be SOMETHING..."

Just to be clear....if there was "all dressed up" I'd certainly have no problems paying a premium price.....so the same people won't always complain. For just a special color and pickguard/TRC (and limited status) I think the specified upcharge is a little steep. It is certainly only my opinion and, as you stated, there is always gonna be something.

My opinion is also that Rics are also an exceptional value so I guess taking that into consideration the upcharge is inconsequential. I'll just wait and see what the '07 COTY is and hold my breath for the return of the 4004Cii/5.

[jps]

Let me clarify. I think they look awesome, I just hoped they would have a bit more such as checker binding, etc. I will reserve final judgement till I get to see the 4003 in person. I do really like the gold TRC and pickguard.

I would pay more if it had more features, I don't think poeple expect a special instrument without a special (higher) price.

[eric_b]

If you think the "specified upcharge is a little steep",I'd be interested to know what you think is fair..Keeping in mind of course the fact that we have to fit an additional 300 instruments into a production schedule with yet another color,and special pickguards etc. and the costs to us relating to that..Not to mention the exclusivity of having 1 of 300..Just a round figure will do.

[jps]

Eric,

I have been trying to call you at RIC but I only get a general voicemail!

[eric_b]

Really? I got nothin'...

[squirefan01]

Eric,

Are the 300 units already built? I heard from a dealer today that there could be a year's wait for these. Of course, they're all saying they really won't know until next week, so that could just be a bad rumor.

Thanks

[Scastles]

While the 75th commemoratives are spectacular it seems the odds would be low on getting one. 300 units, hundreds of American dealers, 18 overseas distributors, (Japan being the biggie) and likely too many people clamoring to buy one. Seems almost mythical to latch your hands on a model. Is it customer order only? Dealer order only? How does RIC please dealers on something like this?

[BobKat]

"It could have every option that everyone has mentioned here,horseshoes,checkers,etc. etc. all dressed up and pretty and those same people will then complain that we aren't selling them for $1000.00..There's always gonna be SOMETHING..."

Untrue, I must contend. This crowd has proven that they are willing to pony up for the special model.

These are very nice and the upcharge is no issue, if people want it they will buy it. I certainly don't think any will be sitting around.

What is amazing to me, absolutely amazing, is that there will be no 12-string as part of this series. The company did not invent the 12-string electric, we know, but they are as instrumental (no pun intended) to its popularity as the Model T was to automobiles. It's a stunning gap in the legacy if there is no commemorative 12-string.

[admin]

The 75th Anniversary Editions will be sought after for years to come, based on their colour, unique nameplate and guard and the limited number. What they are selling for today, will be bargain basement prices to their second owner.

[admin]

Bob: Who knows, the next production of Rickenbacker 12 strings may be just as unique in their own way.

[sloop_john_b]

Bob - I asked someone about that (Either Kenny or Eric), and they said some may be produced if they see there is a demand.