Framus Texan 5/296 12-String Acoustic Guitar – Late 1960s Vintage

Just in is this wonderfully characterful late 1960s Framus Texan Model 5/296 12-String Acoustic Guitar, a classic example of the bold and innovative German guitar design that helped define the era.

The late 1960s were a fascinating period for guitar manufacture, with companies experimenting freely with new ideas, materials and construction methods. Framus embraced this spirit wholeheartedly, producing instruments that looked unlike anything coming out of America at the time. The Texan is a perfect example, combining traditional dreadnought styling with a host of uniquely European design features that give it a character all of its own.

Perhaps best known today through artists such as John Lennon, who famously played Framus acoustics during the late 1960s, these guitars have become increasingly sought after by players and collectors looking for something a little different from the usual American-made offerings.

This Texan has certainly lived a life and carries the honest signs of decades of music making. There is no evidence of any major structural repairs. During our inspection, we noted a crack in the top extending from the bass side of the bridge for a few inches. We examined the area internally using an endoscope and found no indication of movement or previous repair work. The crack appears to be old, stable and largely confined to the surface layer of the top. As always, we have photographed the area clearly so prospective buyers can assess it for themselves. The pick guard is missing and it looks like the original was screwed to the top.

The guitar has been thoroughly inspected in our workshop, and what immediately stands out is just how playable it is. Vintage 12-string acoustics can often be challenging instruments, but this example remains remarkably comfortable thanks to its slim neck profile, straight neck and excellent overall setup.

One of the Texan's most distinctive features is its unusually slim 42mm nut width, making it considerably easier to navigate than many contemporary 12-string guitars. The neck itself appears to be of multi-laminate construction, a design choice that has undoubtedly contributed to its impressive stability over the decades. It remains straight, responsive and surprisingly easy to play.

There are plenty of wonderfully eccentric period details throughout. The metal nut and zero-fret arrangement provide excellent tuning consistency and intonation, while the adjustable bridge saddle allows for practical setup adjustments. The bridge itself features decorative metal appointments along with a chrome string retention plate that perfectly captures the adventurous spirit of late-1960s guitar design.

The elongated Framus headstock completes the look and gives the guitar a distinctive visual identity that is unmistakably of its era.

Construction appears consistent with period Framus specifications, featuring a laminated spruce top, laminated maple back and sides, a rosewood fingerboard and the aforementioned multi-laminate neck construction. The back and sides are finished in sunburst but the top is natural, which may indicate that the top has been refinished.

The result is a lively and resonant instrument with plenty of chime, projection and the rich harmonic complexity that makes a great vintage 12-string so inspiring to play.

Factory Specifications

Model 5/296 Texan
Dreadnought body shape
Laminated spruce top
Laminated maple back and sides
Multi-laminate neck construction
Rosewood fingerboard
Zero-fret design
Metal nut
Adjustable bridge saddle
Decorative metal bridge appointments
Chrome string retention plate
Original Framus machine heads
Natural finish

Whether you're chasing classic folk-rock textures, adding depth to studio recordings or simply looking for a vintage 12-string with genuine character, this Texan delivers in abundance. A fascinating and increasingly collectible Framus from one of the most creative periods in guitar manufacturing history, offering vintage charm, distinctive styling and excellent playability in equal measure.

Framus Texan 12 String 1960's - Natural