Fender Japan Telecaster TL72-53 US Blonde 1998
Fender Telecaster, US Blonde finish, crafted in Japan 1997-00. This is a lovely Tele, it's very enjoyable. The 1972 version of the Telecaster had bold black logos, a U shaped neck, steel saddle bridge and a black 3-ply guard, so this example is dressed up to match. Funnily enough, the 'US Blonde' finish was only ever made and sold in Japan; it's a halfway point between a vintage white and the semi-transparent butterscotch blonde. It looks awesome, creamy and classy with a bit of grain on show up close. It's hard to tell this guitar is hurtling towards it's thirtieth birthday; it's in amazing shape and looks fantastic. The neck is a comfy slim U shape, and the body is pretty lightweight and very resonant, so this feels great in the hands. The tone on offer is great: plenty of plonk and girth on the neck pickup, balanced with a creamy slicing warble on the bridge; the middle position is especially excellent. When someone says 'Tele', this is probably pretty close to what you picture, and there's nothing wrong with that: this rules.
Model: Fender Japan Telecaster TL72-53
Made: Japan, 1997-00, Dyna Gakki factory
Serial: O078122
Finish: US Blonde, gloss poly
Body: basswood
Neck: maple. maple fretboard, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius, slim U shape
Weight: 3.460kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Japan TL-Current single coil x2
Accessories: none
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has scuffs on the edges. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and play wear on the back only. The back has dimples near the neck plate, near the jack and along the back edge. The sides have dimples near the front strap pin, elbow area and near the jack, as well as minor scuffs on the bottom horn. The front has light scuffs in the elbow area and play wear on the guard and horns.
Overall: excellent condition (9/10)
Playing condition notes: action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Wearing fresh 10/46 strings.
Fret life: 8/10, minor wear only