Roger: The Craftsmanship of Wenzel Rossmeisl
Roger: The Craftsmanship of Wenzel Rossmeisl
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Anyone who has seen a vintage Rickenbacker guitar is familiar with the son of Wenzel Rossmeisl, Roger. Wenzel Rossmeisl’s innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship laid the foundation for many of Rickenbacker’s most iconic instruments. My interest in Roger guitars stems from Roger Rossmeisl's work at RIC. While Roger was certainly Wenzel's company, his son Roger worked there and ran the company in different eras, and certainly Roger build many of the guitar.
I discovered Roger guitars through my fascination with Rickenbacker’s history and the profound impact Rossmeisl had on their designs. The more I learned about his contributions, the more I appreciated the artistry and innovation embodied in each Roger guitar. Specifically the Rickenbacker Jazz-bo is basically a Roger Super evolved. And one of the prototype Rickenbacker solidbody guitars is basically a Roger electric evolved.
Roger guitars stand as a testament to Wenzel Rossmeisl’s lasting legacy in the world of lutherie. And are in interesting part of the Rickenbacker family-tree. Plus they're great guitars!
1949 Roger Junior, Sunburst
1949 Roger Junior, Sunburst
Most likely made by Roger Rossmeisl, Pics soon...
1960(?) Roger Model 56, Sunburst
1960(?) Roger Model 56, Sunburst
The Model 56 electric guitars don't have serial numbers, but this is a late '50s or early '60s model (I think). Resembles the RIC 'Custom Built"...
1963 Roger Super CA, Natural
1963 Roger Super CA, Natural
This is the model that is basically the 'father' of the Rickenbacker Jazz-bo. These are awesome guitars, and they have a crisp/full sound. This one is most likely a 60's version (finished in 1963, built earlier based on the wood grain and other features), with the gold HW being non-standard, as well as the odd pick guard, the heel script, and the headstock inlay. This was formerly owned by Randy Bachman of BTO fame.
1964 Roger Junior CA - Natural
1964 Roger Junior CA - Natural
This is an Export Model, and has pretty cool red binding (W/R/W). I think the non-export models have simpler binding. You do see lots of variants of binding on the Juniors though, and this is my favorite, the red extends to the side of the neck and headstock.
This is an awesome playing and sounding gutar.
Pickup isn't original.
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