Fender Electric XII Sunburst 1966

The model was produced from 1965 through 1969, with an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 units leaving the factory. This makes the Electric XII not only a rare guitar but also an instrument that holds a unique place in the history of the electric twelve-string guitar. Although Fender entered the popularity of the electric 12-string relatively late during the folk-rock years of the 1960s, the brand chose to develop a completely new model rather than modify an existing guitar. 

Under the leadership of Leo Fender, an instrument emerged that clearly distinguished itself from its competitors. The comfortable offset body aligned with models such as the Jazzmaster and Jaguar, while the specially designed split single-coil pickups delivered a bright, sparkling, and distinctive character. The electronics were also remarkable for their time, featuring a four-position rotary switch that allowed both pickups to be used separately, together, or even out of phase. 

One of the Electric XII's greatest technical assets was its innovative bridge construction. While most twelve-string electric guitars were equipped with six saddles for twelve strings, the Electric XII featured a fully adjustable bridge with twelve individual saddles. This allowed each string to be intoned individually, resulting in unprecedented accuracy and playability. Moreover, the design is considered one of Leo Fender's last major contributions before the company was acquired by CBS. 

Visually, the Electric XII is instantly recognizable by its enormous "hockey stick" headstock, a design that was as striking as it was controversial at the time. Combined with the offset body, the large pickguard, and characteristic Fender details, the result was a guitar that was an outlier even within Fender's own lineup. 

This 1966 Electric XII is in excellent condition considering its age. The guitar has been played carefully and well-maintained over the years, and features the original electronics and hardware. The back of the neck has been oversprayed, but the frets are still original. An absolute bargain to add this special guitar to your collection!