There is a VERY good reason why the last owner, Lenny Kravitz, held on to this beautiful, early 1952 Telecaster for over 25 years… It is from his private collection and is simply a stunning playing, sounding and looking guitar that embodies everything you expect to be in or on a Blackguard, from arguably the finest year of production.

Perfectly sculptured neck, hand finished by the master craftsman Tadeo Gomez with his pencil date of 18th February 1952 is totally exquisite, there is no doubt about that. And in pure, classic 1952 Blackguard style, it is a chunky C profile that fits in your hand just like your favourite glove. It was just 4 days later Tadeo finished the original body which gives the guitar a perfect weight of 3.36Kg and makes it a wonderful guitar, beautifully balanced and ringing alive with superb acoustic resonance - just like the best of them.

Both pickups are in excellent shape, work well and the bridge pickup in particular is so so sweet. Not harsh at all, just full, powerful and with the right amount of bite for every Tele tonal application you can think of. You do not have to take out word for this, everyone who has played this superb Tele thus far has said exactly the same thing and it IS one of the nicest ones we have ever had here.

Included is the correct thermometer style poodle case plus a correct bridge cover with the solder blob still on. It having being kept as a working guitar, has had the volume pot changed for what looks like a very old IRC pot, a vintage piece in itself and there are two small screw holes either side of the jack cup fashioned by one of Lenny’s techs as a temporary repair to hold the jack cup in place. This can obviously be taken out and neatly filled in if so desired.

All original finish, no touch ups, no overspray or any other funny business. The blonde has turned the typical and lovely butterscotch colour like they do for ‘52’s and neck has the obvious signs of wear but we think it looks great. There is a small amount of buckle rash on the back which all adds to the character and obvious history of the guitar but overall it looks totally classic, plays like a classic 52 Blackguard and without a doubt, sounds like one too.

Original frets are still holding out very well and you should not have any problems at all playing on these. Action is set really well and it is a pure joy to play.

Included is a COA and a signed letter from Mr Kravitz stating one of the many tracks it was used on, of which a video is posted below. If you wish to hear this actual Telecaster in action, skip to the extensive guitar solo at 2:57

Lastly and according to the well respected broker who handled the recent sale of Lenny’s guitars, Lenny has said that out of all the guitars he let go, this is the one he has regretted the most. Stop by, have a play and find out for yourself why…