Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster Electric Guitar, with Maple Fingerboard (with Case)

Even though there were earlier designs, 1952 is considered the first year of production for the venerable Tele, and the Fender 1952 Telecaster Relic is a premium example of this design, slightly tweaked for modern players. All the classic “Blackguard” touches are here: 1-ply Black phenolic pickguard, ash body with classic Blonde finish and medium-tint riftsawn maple neck with “ ‘52 U”-shaped profile. The first Telecaster had some subtle changes from 1951, including a slow transition from slot-head screws to Phillips-head, reflected here by both types appearing (as happened on some models). Three different lacquer finish packages are available, from moderate playing wear, to this one – a Heavy Relic treatment designed to evoke decades of the most punishing play and touring.

For the fattest, gruntiest tone ever heard from a Tele, this one is armed with a pair of Hand Wound ‘51 Loaded Nocaster single-coil pickups, tied together with Fat ‘50s Tele wiring and a 3-way pickup switch. Other features include a 9.5”-radius fingerboard, 21 6105 frets, ‘51/’54 bridge with brass saddles, vintage-style tuning machines, bone nut and round string tree. Includes deluxe hardshell case, strap and Certificate of Authenticity.