Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today introduces the Paranormal Troy Van Leeuwen Telecaster® XII, a new Squier® signature model developed with the acclaimed guitarist to bring the expansive sound and unmistakable character of a 12-string Telecaster to a new generation of players. Inspired by Van Leeuwen’s genre-defining work with Queens of the Stone Age, A Perfect Circle, Failure, Gone Is Gone and The Armed, the guitar captures the shimmering ambient textures, layered harmonics and unmistakable bite that have become hallmarks of his playing. Designed for players looking to expand their sonic palette, it blends signature style, modern playability and distinctive tone into one striking instrument.
For more than three decades, Van Leeuwen has built a reputation as one of alternative rock’s most inventive and versatile guitarists, using texture, atmosphere and layered soundscapes to help define some of the genre’s most celebrated recordings. His second signature model with Fender captures that creative approach, offering players a unique instrument designed to inspire everything from expansive ambient textures to powerful, chord-driven riffs.
“When creating my second signature with Fender, I wanted an instrument at an affordable price point that could inspire anyone who’s ever been curious about playing a 12-string,” said Troy Van Leeuwen. “Having worked with the team for over a decade, they easily connected with my vision for a guitar that’s designed for functionality, aesthetically striking, and would sound great right out of the box.”
“Troy has always approached the guitar differently. He hears texture, harmony and space in a way that’s uniquely his own — and with Troy’s impeccable sense of style, we knew the guitar had to look every bit as cool as it sounds,” said Justin Norvell, Chief Product Officer, Guitar. “It captures his creative spirit from every angle while making the magic of a 12-string Telecaster more accessible than ever for the next generation of players.”
Marking Van Leeuwen’s second signature instrument with Fender, the Paranormal Troy Van Leeuwen Telecaster® XII channels his creative spirit into a high-quality instrument built for players who want more from every chord. Taking inspiration directly from his own Paul Waller Fender Custom Shop Masterbuilt 12-string Telecaster, the guitar offers layers of rich harmonic complexity on top of the raw, familiar backbone of a classic Telecaster – all without losing the mystique and bite that made the Tele famous. Released under the Squier brand, Fender and Van Leeuwen’s collaboration delivers an exceptional, striking and unique instrument that’s accessible to everyone.
PARANORMAL TROY VAN LEEUWEN TELECASTER® XII (MSRP: $599.99 USD, £509 GBP, €599 EUR, $1,099 AUD, ¥81,400 JPY) Troy Van Leeuwen has contributed deftly textural guitar work and atmospherics to some of alt-rock’s most acclaimed and forward-thinking bands. From Failure to A Perfect Circle, Queens of the Stone Age, Gone Is Gone, The Armed and others, Van Leeuwen’s multi-instrumental expertise has given color and power to some of the most creative and popular rock music of the last three decades. Built for players who demand more from every chord, the Paranormal Troy Van Leeuwen Telecaster® XII 12-string Telecaster® layers rich harmonic depth and shimmering complexity on top of the raw, familiar backbone of a Telecaster®, expanding the sonic palette without losing the mystique and bite that made the Tele® famous. This guitar is adorned in a striking custom Copper Age finish, a player-friendly 12-string bridge and a custom Telecaster® XII headstock.
The Paranormal Troy Van Leeuwen Telecaster® XII combines signature styling with thoughtful, player-focused design. Finished in a striking custom Copper Age finish, the guitar features a resonant Nyatoh body, a custom Telecaster® XII headstock and a player-friendly 12-string top-load/string-through bridge that makes restringing easier while improving tuning stability. Together, these elements capture the rich shimmer and harmonic depth that define Van Leeuwen’s sound—while preserving the unmistakable feel and bite of a classic Telecaster.
Key Features Include:
● Custom Copper Age Finish: A distinctive custom finish that gives the instrument a bold visual identity worthy of Van Leeuwen’s unmistakable style.
● Custom Telecaster® XII Headstock: A unique headstock design that pays homage to the classic Telecaster XII while immediately setting this signature model apart.
● Player-Friendly 12-String Bridge: A top-load/string-through bridge makes restringing easier while improving tuning stability—addressing one of the biggest pain points for 12-string players.
● Nyatoh Body: Provides a resonant foundation that complements the guitar’s rich harmonic character and dynamic response.
● Signature 12-String Voice: Delivers shimmering harmonics, layered textures and unmistakable Telecaster attack, making it equally suited for atmospheric soundscapes and powerful rhythm playing.
● Designed in collaboration with Troy Van Leeuwen. Full technical specifications are listed below.
Watch Troy Van Leeuwen discuss the inspiration and craftsmanship behind his signature model HERE,
And find the demo video exploring the guitar HERE.
For additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender on all social platforms.