Rickenbacker Model 335 Jetglo Model Thinline Hollow Body Electric Guitar (1966), made in Santa Ana, CA, black lacquer finish, maple body and neck, original silver hard shell case.
Certainly one of the classic 1960's guitars, the Rickenbacker 300 series has returned to favor again and again as new generations discover its bright, well-defined sound and utterly distinctive look and feel. This is a rare example of a black-finish ("Jetglo") Model 335 from Rickenbacker's peak year of 1966; most 330 series guitars built in that (or any) year were finished in the company's familiar red sunburst ("Fireglo"). "Jetglo" black finish is a custom order catalog option, and makes for a very sharp "tuxedo" effect combined with the white plastic pickguards.
The most famous black Rickenbacker would of course be John Lennon's 1964 Model 325, used during the Beatles' period of worldwide fame in 1964-5. Despite the impact of this particular instrument, Jetglo Rickenbackers from the 1960's are not very common. The 335 designation refers to the guitar's equipment of two pickups and vibrato; the more common model 330 has the solid "R"-shaped tailpiece. A very classy guitar for both retro and modern sounds!
Overall length is 39 3/4 in. (101 cm.), 15 in. (38.1 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 25 in. (635 mm.). Width of nut is 1 5/8 in. (41 mm.).
Very nice original condition; includes bridge cover and polishing cloth. Some overall play wear to finish, with a small spot of buckle wear to the back. The reflective insert is missing from the small fifth knob, otherwise all hardware is intact and original.
The only modification is someone at some point (we would guess the late 60's!) painted the INSIDE of the back under the slash f-hole with flourescent poster paint; some of this has been subsequently removed, but there is still a decent amount of Dayglo inside the guitar. We find this rather quaint, but it would be possible to remove with some effort. Otherwise this is a beautiful and great playing and sounding 60's Rickenbacker. Excellent Condition.
