Fender Japan '72 Reissue Tele, US Blonde, crafted in Japan 1999. US Blonde is (somewhat ironically) a Japan-only finish for Fender, it's a tasty off white with a bit of grain showing through to keep the pulses racing. It's a very nice finish indeed, especially when paired with the bold black plastics and logos of a 70s style Tele... this looks very smart indeed. The 72 neck is an instant winner: vintage radius maple board, but with a slim and round 'modern C' profile, not like the Vs and chunky Ds on most 52 models. Between the sleek neck and the light body, this is a very easy player indeed. The Tele-twang is all there: heaps of bite and attack from the bridge pickup, plenty of jangle and warmth from the neck pickup, and a magical middle position that's rich, sparkly and full of promise. This is an understated little overachiever; pure Tele-goodness.

Model: Fender Telecaster '72 Reissue (TL72-53)
Made: Japan, Fujigen plant, 1999 (+/- a year) (serial O050218)
Finish: US Blonde (USB), black 3-ply guard
Body: basswood
Weight: 3.5kg approx
Neck: 1-piece maple inc maple board, oval type
Mods: none
Pickups: original Fender Japan 'TL-current' single coils
Case: very basic gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. There's a couple of dents on the end of the headstock and some discolouration on the bottom side (see pics), as well as a couple of very minor dimples on the neck. The front of the body has some play-scratches and a couple of dents near the edge: up from the bridge, down from the knobs. The back has a few little dents a few cm below the string ferrules and some minor buckle rash. The sides have quite a few dings/scratches scuffs concentrated around from the knobs, and then directly opposite those on the top side. Overall: good condition (7.5/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets have a little wear, plenty of life in them; 7/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 10/46s.