The Fender 52 Telecaster Reissue appeared in 1982, as one of the first wave of vintage reissue models based on ever-closer readings of original designs. These reissues began a few years before the 1985 sale of the Fender brand – but not the plant and fixtures – by CBS to a management group.

Fender introduced the Telecaster, originally the single pickup Esquire, to the market in its 1950 catalog. These first models did not have adjustable truss rods, as Leo Fender initially felt that a thick Maple neck was strong enough to withstand string tension. However, by late 1950 a truss rod was added to the dual pickup model, now named the Broadcaster – but only for a short time. By February 1951 Gretsch had brought to Fender’s attention their established use of the name ‘Broadkaster’ on a drum line. Fender had no real choice but to drop that name, and for a time the logo decals simply had the ‘Broadcaster’ model name clipped off – waste was not a company value! The name ‘Telecaster’ was registered in April 1951 and new decals created, but the clipped ‘NoCaster’ decals were used until they were gone, around August 1951. July 1951 Fender catalogs show the Telecaster and the Esquire.

The Fender 52 Telecaster represents the ‘final’ form of the early Telecaster, and only minor changes followed for the next several years. The body is Ash, with a Maple neck and rear-mounted truss rod with Walnut ‘Skunk Stripe’ and body-end adjuster. The pickguard is single layer black, and all the screws are Slot Head instead of the later Phillips head screws. The serial number is stamped onto the bridge plate, and in 1954 that location was changed to the neck plate. The finish is nitrocellulose lacquer, tinted to reproduce the natural darkening of the clear finish over a thin ‘blonde’ coat.

This Fender 52 Telecaster Reissue was built during September of 1999 in Corona, California. It is in overall very good condition, with a bit of light scuffing on the back. Fret wear is very minor, and the guitar plays well – it’s resonant and responsive with great tone. And it has the original bridge cover!

The original rectangular Tweed Fender hard shell case is included.

Fender 52 Telecaster Reissue Specifications: