(SOLD) Fender '52 Telecaster Special TL52-650SPL Blonde 1990
Fender '52 Telecaster Special, blonde, made in Japan 1990. This one has copped a light of attention in the store already, so I would be surprised if it hangs around long. The Collector's Series page of the 1990 catalog featured all the fun little misfit Teles: the all rosewood model, the paisley ones, the Esquires, and... the 'Keith' models. This is pretty clearly referencing Keith Richards' (Rolling Stones... ask your parents) famed 'Micawber' modded 1952 Tele... except in a handy twist, it has six strings attached. The combo of a PAF-style 'Dragster' humbucker in the neck position opens up all sorts of possibilities. It's thick and rich on the neck pickup, slicing and clear on the bridge position, and surprisingly perfectly balanced in the middle. The sturdy brass bridge came standard and offers both easy intonation and heaps of vibration transfer to the body. Between that and the hefty slab of ash used for the body, this has an amazing clarity, sparkle and midrange presence you won't soon forget. The neck is slim and comfy and blessed with some gorgeous golden maple, it looks and feels superb. These don't land around here often, so if you like your Teles pre-modded, reassuringly heavy and laden with swagger, here's your new buddy. Get your satisfaction.
Model: Fender Collector's Series Telecaster Special TL52-650SPL
Made: Japan, Fujigen plant, 1990 (serial I024214)
Finish: butterscotch blonde, 1-ply black guard
Body: ash
Neck: maple inc board, 25/5" scale, 7.25" radius, slim C shape
Mods: none
Weight: 4.830kg
Pickups: Fender Japan TL-Vintage Single (bridge), Dragster humbucker (neck)
Case: basic non original gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has marks on the end, back and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, plenty of dimples and scuffs on the back and some play wear on the board edges too. The back has some decent chips on the edge near the jack as well as widespread light scuffs. The sides have light dimples around the whole body as well as the aforementioned chips near the jack. The front is pretty tidy, just some widespread very minor dimples and scuffs and some play wear on the guard and horn. Overall: good condition (7/10).
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets are pretty even in height with no major buzz issues but some normal wear, 7/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.