I've kept an acoustic 12-string as part of my collection for almost as long as I've been playing. My current one I bought new in 1977. And they're not just for strumming chords.

I probably do half of my writing on the 12. The chorus-like effect that results from small differences in intonation gives it a full, lush sound. The acoustic material from Led Zepelin works really well with a 12-string.

It isn't all that hard to play, either; its just different. And I mean that in the nicest possible way.

Its not likely to become your main instrument, but once you've gotten used to it, you'll always want to have one around. A good 12-string has a unique appeal that no 6-string can even approach.