"Something"
2003 Model 1993 SPC

In a world where the tradition of fine crafted guitars is becoming harder to find, Rickenbacker still delivers. Thanks to the skilled hands of those at Rickenbacker International Corportation, the arrival of a new 2003 Model 1993 SPC on December 29, 2003 is an experience that will be savoured for a lifetime.

The dream of a Model 1993 was contemplated in the spring of 2003 and soon thereafer took its place within the factory job queue. The seasons passed - spring, summer, fall and then winter. The waiting time felt like an eternity but, in retrospect, was well worth it when one considers the beauty and exquisite features of this timeless Rickenbacker 12 string.

Rickenbacker got this instrument perfect but after crafting fine guitars for over 70 years this outcome has become the company standard. From the trapeze tailpiece to the Montezuma Brown finish the Model 1993 SPC harkens back to the late 1950s in Rickenbacker history, while at the same time reminds one of the British export versions that would enchant the world from 1964 to 1967.

"Just One Look" is all it takes to appreciate that this is an instrument of fine quality. The deep brown edges fade gradually to mid-brown and then feather further to a natural wood finish toward the center of the body. Each glimpse of this guitar reveals a different perspective, the brown tones taking precedence one moment and the maple woodgrain stealing the spotlight the next.

The beautifully lacquered rosewood fretboard is accentuated by the Montezuma Brown finish. The triangle inlays seem to borrow illumination from the pure white two-tiered pickguard and the elegant binding that dances around the body and fingerboard. In concert with these pleasing visual features the tried and true truss-rod cover with the Rickenbacker name gracefully adorns the headstock.

One of the most cherished features of the Model 1993 SPC is that of its classic British Invasion tonality. The two 7.4k Ohm scatter-wound pickups faithfully reproduce the sound made so famous by George Harrison of The Beatles. The Rickenbacker jangle is instantly apparent to even the most casual listener and speaks explains the reason why Rickenbacker has 95% of the electric 12-string market.

The 1993 SPC plays like a dream come true and the action and playability rival that of many six-string electric guitars. It intonates well up the entire 21 fret neck and the vintage tuners are real workhorses that reliably hold the strings in tune. The plain black control knobs are the same style as those used in the Rose-Morris Model 1993 during the 1960s and complement this 12 string.

Thanks goes out to John Hall and all those at RIC for continuing to lead the way in producing a timeless instrument of impeccable quality. To all those who worked so hard in crafting this fine guitar, "the things that you do make me feel all right!"
Peter McCormack