Study this photo carefully
This course builds upon the foundational knowledge of the various Rickenbacker Combo models that you acquired during your undergraduate studies.
Let’s begin our discussion by examining a unique topic: the 1957 and 1958 versions of the Combo 850. Who would like to volunteer to explain to the class what we’re looking at here? What are the key distinguishing features/differences that makes it straightforward to ID a '57 from a '58 visually? Hint -> There are 4 main differences, one of which is obvious from this photo...
From @nathanpollard2022:
On the 1958 ones, the knobs are vertically aligned, whereas the 1957 ones are diagonally positioned. I think the 1958 ones have shallower carved. There are output jack plates on the 1958 ones and the 1957 outputs are recessed in the body. I’m not entirely sure, but the neck pickups on the 1957 ones are angled down due to the carve continuing across the end of the fretboard.