Fender were always trying to improve their lines and develop better ways of production. When they revamped the Precision Bass in 1957 they moved the string anchor from the through body to the end of the bridge. This same technique was applied to the Telecaster and whilst its was accepted by the bass community, guitarists weren’t so enamored. As a result string through was reintroduced towards the middle of 1959.

Though worn, this si a classic example of a late 50s blonde finish. There are quite a few dinks and knocks and an excellent patch of wear on the back, exposing the wonderful grain of the Ash underneath.The body date is August 1958. You will notice that under the pickguard there are signs of others having been fitted. There is also evidence of a different bridge having been fitted at some stage as there are two additional holes under the current bridge.

Retaining a slight v, the neck is in great condition.The lacquer has retained some of its gloss and has really worn  comfortably along the neck. The fretboard shows signs of wear and has been refretted. The headstock and decal are in great shape too and free from any real wear, especially on that vulnerable decal. It is dated April 1958.

The hardware is in great condition showing only some minor signs of corrosion. The pickguard is in good shape too.

Electrically there have been some minor changes. The pots are correct but  have been wired as per the modern standard.. The switch is also correct. Pickups are correct and don’t look to have been rewound but there has been some modification of the wiring to the bridge pickup.

The guitar comes with a later Fender hardshell case from 1963.

Opinion is divided over the toploader bridge, claims made that the arrangement doesn’t yield as much twang as the bottom feeder option. As with many of these things its up to personal preference. With regards to this guitar its certainly not lacking in the twang department and in fact what the string arrangement does give us is a slightly slinkier feel making bends much easier. As you’d expect, the maple and ash combination gives this guitar a wonderful attack that sustains beautifully, the neck pickup providing a smooth tone with bite from the bridge.

A true classic, this is a must have for anyone looking for that elusive 50’s tele tone. Grab it before it gets away…