For Sale: 1997 Rickenbacker 325V59 Turquoise w/ OHSC | Rare Factory Color

Up for sale is a 1997 Rickenbacker 325V59 in the exceptionally rare Turquoise finish, complete with its original Rickenbacker hard-shell case.

The 325V59 is one of Rickenbacker's most iconic models, faithfully recreating the short-scale Capri guitars that helped define the company's early history. Best known as the model associated with John Lennon's famous 325, the V59 features a compact 21" scale, semi-hollow maple construction, three vintage Toaster Top pickups, and unmistakable Rickenbacker styling.

What truly sets this guitar apart is its factory Turquoise finish. Unlike standard catalog colors such as Jetglo, Fireglo, and Mapleglo, Turquoise is an extraordinarily rare and highly desirable factory finish seldom seen on the V59 series. Combined with the gold pickguard and chrome hardware, it makes for one of the most visually striking Rickenbackers you'll ever come across.

Adding to its rarity, this guitar was factory-equipped with a Rickenbacker "R" tailpiece instead of the traditional Accent Vibrola (often mistaken for a Bigsby) found on most 325V59 models. The result is increased tuning stability, improved sustain, and a unique factory specification that is rarely encountered.

Condition

Excellent – 9/10

• Light surface scratches from careful handling
• Minor clear coat bubbling at the neck joint

Please review all photos carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.

The clear coat bubbling at the neck joint is purely cosmetic and is very common on Rickenbacker guitars from this era. It does not affect the structural integrity or playability of the instrument.

The guitar is 100% original with no cracks, breaks, repairs, or structural issues.

The neck is straight, the original frets are in excellent condition with minimal wear, and the guitar has been professionally inspected and set up by our in-house luthier. It plays effortlessly up and down the neck with low action, excellent intonation, and no buzzing or dead spots.

The original Rickenbacker hard-shell case is included.

Specifications

• Model: Rickenbacker 325V59
• Year: 1997
• Serial Number: W0 4642
• Finish: Turquoise
• Body: Semi-Hollow Solid Maple
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Scale Length: 21"
• Frets: 21
• Nut Width: 1.63"
• Neck Depth: .87" at the 1st Fret
• Neck Depth: .89" at the 12th Fret
• Pickups: Three Rickenbacker Toaster Top Single-Coils
• Controls: Two Volume, Two Tone
• Switching: 3-Way Pickup Selector
• Tailpiece: Factory Rickenbacker "R" Tailpiece
• Pickguard: Gold Two-Piece
• Hardware: Chrome
• Weight: 6 lbs 10 oz
• Case: Original Rickenbacker Hard-Shell Case

Electronics & Features

The 325V59 faithfully captures everything players love about Rickenbacker's late-1950s Capri models.

Its trio of vintage-style Toaster Top pickups produces the unmistakable Rickenbacker voice—bright, articulate, harmonically rich, and incredibly responsive. Whether played clean or through a lightly overdriven amplifier, these pickups deliver outstanding note separation and the signature chime that has made Rickenbacker guitars legendary.

One of the most unusual features of this guitar is its factory-installed R tailpiece. Most 325V59 models left the factory with an Accent Vibrola, making this factory R-tail specification a rare and highly desirable variation. Besides giving the guitar a cleaner appearance, the R tailpiece provides improved tuning stability and increased sustain.

Of course, the real star is the Turquoise finish. Factory custom colors are exceptionally uncommon on Rickenbackers from this era, especially on the 325V59. It is a finish that immediately stands out and is certain to attract the attention of serious Rickenbacker collectors.

Tone & Feel

The 21" short scale gives the 325V59 a feel unlike almost any other electric guitar.

The shorter scale creates effortless bends, reduced string tension, and an incredibly comfortable playing experience while maintaining the unmistakable attack and articulation Rickenbackers are known for.

The semi-hollow maple construction adds resonance and liveliness to every note, while the three Toaster pickups offer an impressive range of sparkling cleans, jangly rhythm tones, and articulate lead sounds.

At just 6 lbs 10 oz, this guitar is exceptionally lightweight and perfectly balanced, making it a joy to play for extended sessions.

Transparency & Photos

As with all Guitar Chimp listings, detailed photos are provided of the exact instrument—no stock photos.

At the end of the photo set, you'll find close-up images taken under direct lighting to highlight every cosmetic imperfection.

We don't just describe the condition—we show it in detail so there are no surprises.

Many customers tell us our guitars often arrive in better condition than expected.

Why Buy From Guitar Chimp?

With over 18 years of experience, Guitar Chimp is trusted by players and collectors worldwide for high-quality, player-ready instruments.

Every guitar is thoroughly inspected and professionally set up by our in-house luthier.

We are experts at shipping and have safely shipped thousands of guitars all over the world. Every instrument is professionally packed, fully insured, and shipped with signature confirmation, so you can buy with complete confidence.

📞 Call/Text: (801) 317-9013

💬 Message anytime—we're always happy to help!

This 1997 Rickenbacker 325V59 is an exceptionally rare example finished in factory Turquoise and equipped with the uncommon factory R tailpiece. Combining vintage-inspired construction, unmistakable Rickenbacker chime, and one of the rarest finishes ever offered on the model, it is a truly special instrument for both collectors and players alike.

🎸 Jerald – Guitar Chimp

Providing The Finest Guitars, Basses & Amps Since 2006