Music

This 1968 Fender Telecaster really ups the style factor with the very desirable nitro finished maple cap neck (no skunk stripe) and the all original factory black nitro finish with chrome hardware.This impressive factory black finish shows some small signs of wear that only adds to the overall look of the guitar. The maple cap neck is in good condition. Only minor play wear at the back, the front also only shows slight signs of wear. Fret wear is minimal with plenty of life left in the frets.The hardware is in great shape. There is very slight signs of corrosion on the saddles and there’s wear on the Bigsby but elsewhere everything looks good. Electronically all solder joints look undisturbed.The guitar comes with a period correct original hardshell case.The neck is a pleasant handful and really comfortable to play. The Bigsby trem works brilliantly and stays perfectly in tune even with the most heavy of vibratos. The neck pickup is full and wonderfully musical with the bridge pickup delivering a classic aggressive edge without getting over trebly. This guitar certainly still possesses all the hall mark tonal features of its hardtail brethren but with maybe a bit more air and the ability to add a little Bigsby wobble to proceedings is always welcome.Black was a Custom Colour back in 1968 and a Bigsby was also of course an optional extra so the person who originally bought this must have paid a pretty premium for it.Any inspection welcome. Demos can also be provided in person or online.Photos are courtesy of ATB Guitars whom I purchased the guitar from.

The Fender Telecaster, known affectionately as the "Tele," emerged as the first mass-produced solid-body electric guitar, marking a significant milestone in music history. Its straightforward design and innovative sound paved the way for new trends in electric guitar manufacturing and popular music. Since its debut in the 1950s, the Telecaster has been celebrated for its versatility, serving artists across genres from country to jazz, rock, and beyond. Its solid construction, characterized by a single-cutaway body made typically from alder or ash and a bolt-on maple neck, contributes to its distinct, bright, and cutting tone as well as a warm, mellow sound depending on pickup selection. With minor modifications over the years, the Telecaster has remained largely faithful to its original design, featuring two single-coil pickups, a three-way selector switch, and simple volume and tone controls. This enduring design has kept the Telecaster relevant and in continuous production, solidifying its status as a beloved icon in the guitar world.