Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I ran across this guitar this last weekend at the Dallas Guitar Show. Does anybody have an idea what this is? The owner was told that is was a prototype from the 1950s. The serial number is C8145, so it appears that it may have been produced in 1963. Notice the partial neck-through. Sorry for the haphazard pictures but I had a very short time to shoot these:

wow

It looks like a combo 850 w/ deluxe appointments....

John, I am wondering if John Hall, Kenny or someone directly from Rickenbacker can identify this.

That's what it is alright, a '58 Combo 850 with deluxe features. Not so much a prototype as a special feature guitar.

Jeepers-Jeepers-Jeepers!!!

Was it for sale?

Love that two-tier gold pickguard!

The guy was not interested in selling it now but was looking for answers that nobody could give him. Said he's had it for 30 years.

Is that the first version of the 381?

Cole

I believe there were some special Combo models made from old body stock and some newer parts about 20 years ago, IIRC. At least one of them is in the Rittor book, I'm thinking others are hanging in John Hall's office. This could be one of them for sure.

Or, is it a real '58???

(edit) I keep adding to this post.

The serial number in the pic is blurry---pre or post 1960? The way the neck inlays are cut looks post 1958, they do not come to a sharp point like you see on a lot of 1958 production, even in the deluxe guitars (i.e. John Williams's 58 365)...these were on the price sheet up into the 60's, so someone may have requested this as a special order, yes... It is very cool. I know Mike was in a hurry, but closer shots of the bridge and p/ups would have been cool. Thanks Mike for the pics, this is a really interesting old Rickenbacker.

John Willliams, hints of 'Betsy', dontcha think?

You guys are posting too quick, LOL!! If he's had it for 30 years, then it could be the real deal. That is ULTRA cool.

Is that a solid body? Looks like the neck thru goes only half way thru.

Cole

Yes, solid body, set-neck construction.

I believe this is a standard two-tone brown Combo 850 from the last ditch effort to make a go of them. I would guess it is from very late 1958 or early 1959.

Wow, another vintage guitar enthusiast shows up when a Combo 850 surfaces. Very nice to hear from you David.