Fender '52 Tele Special, natural finish, made in Japan 1988-9. This is a monster! This model was the 'hot rodded' version of the classic '52 Tele, with specs designed as a not-exactly-subtle nod to Keith Richards' famed 'Macawber' blackguard Tele. The addition of a Dragster humbucker in neck adds a whole lot of extra beef to the equation: there's a whole lot of traditional twang balanced by a thick, saucy grunt that'll happily push any agreeable amp into a creamy, bluesy delight. The stock brass bridge plate has been switched for a chrome-over-brass model, which cleans up the aesthetic nicely, plus the six-saddle bridge is a practical little addition. The build and wood quality on these pre-1990 Fujigen made Teles is superb, so if you're after a hefty Tele with a perfect balance of classic charm and streetsmart attitude, this one will surely provide some satisfaction.

Model: Fender Collector's Series Telecaster Special TL52-70SPL (as per catalog, neck is stamped TL52-650SPL)
Made: Japan, 1988-9 (serial H010201)
Finish: natural gloss poly, 1-ply black guard
Body: ash
Neck: maple, maple board, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius
Mods: bridge and bridge pickup replaced
Weight: 4.420kg
Pickups: TL-style single coil (not sure on model) and Dragster HB (neck)
Case: basic non original vegan leather gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has some minor marks on the end. neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has a few scuffs and dimples but no major marks. The sides are pretty clean, just some minor dimples near the jack. The front is also nice and clean, just a minor chip on the bottom edge down from the volume knob and some light play scratches on the guard and top horn. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

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 with a little normal wear, 7/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.