As the CBS era drew to a close at the start of the 1980's, many players were of the opinion that Fender had in some ways lost touch with its roots, with countless redesigns of classic models leaving behind the what made their early instruments so special. In response to this, the company launched the American Vintage Reissue series of guitars, made in the Fullerton factory and designed to get back to the tone, feel and vibe of those lauded guitars. This 1982 American Vintage '52 Telecaster is an early example of the model from the first production year, and exemplifies why these guitars have become so sought after.
This '52 reissue Telecaster features many period correct specs, with an Ash body finished in the original butterscotch blonde lacquer finish and black guard, Maple neck and vintage style three brass saddle bridge. The pickups are voiced to accurately recreate the sound of those early black bottom Telecaster pickups, with a punchy bridge pickup that cuts through without being overly trebly, and a mellow, warm neck position. The wiring and pots are original, with the pot codes reading 137 823X. These guitars replicate the original '50s Blackguards down to the most minute detail, with flat head screws used throughout, no line Kluson style tuners and domed knurled chrome control knobs. Although this series of guitars was the closest to a vintage style instrument Fender had made for some time, the neck profile is a little slimmer than the 'U' style profile you would expect to find on a Blackguard, and this guitar has had the original neck position tone cap removed, making it a more usable instrument for most players.
This guitar is in very good condition with some very minor cosmetic signs of play wear to the finish. This guitar also includes its original tweed hard case. This guitar has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
