Fender '70 Tele Thinline, natural mahogany gloss, crafted in Japan 1997-00. This is a lovely Tele, no doubt about it. If you look through the late 90s Fender Japan catalogs, you'll see the TN72 model Thinline Tele, with an ash body and two humbuckers, but not this model. The single coils and semi-hollow mahogany body make for an interesting, tasty combo. This has the immediate attack and chiming brilliance you expect from a single coil equipped Tele, but it has this singing, wide, complex midrange that adds a whole new dimension. The middle pickup position is particularly saucy; it's got a lively twang paired by an airy warmth and punch... yum. The natural gloss finish lets the complex tight grain of the mahogany body show through beautifully; against the white pearl guard and golden maple board, it’s a very pretty item. The slim neck and lightweight, resonant body make for a lively and responsive playing experience; you feel the notes as you hear them and it’s all very edifying. I expected to like this,  but in my hands, I really really liked it. Can’t lose!

Model: Fender '70 Telecaster Thinline (TN70-85)
Made: Japan, Dyna plant, 1997-00 (serial O085473)
Finish: natural gloss, 3-ply white oyster guard
Body: mahogany, chambered
Neck: maple, maple board, mild D profile, 25.5" scale, 9.5" radius
Weight: 2.810kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender Japan TL-Vintage single coil x2
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has some dimples on the end, bottom edge and front near the string tree. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has widespread dimples and light scuffs, most notably on the bottom horn, elbow area and between the neck plate and ferrules. The sides have a few things to note: dimples on the top horn, a few scuffs and dimples in the elbow area, a couple of minor chips near the jack and on the bottom horn. The front is pretty tidy, just a few dimples near the knobs, near the rear strap pin, elbow area and behind the bridge plus some standard play wear on the horn and guard. 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 in good shape, just a bit of standard wear, 8/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.