1951 Fender Deluxe (TV Front) Amplifier – Serial #3693
The 1951 Fender Deluxe, often referred to as the “TV front” model due to its distinctive cabinet design with rounded cut-out resembling the bezel of early television sets, represents one of the most iconic amplifiers of the early electric guitar era. These amps were among Fender’s first truly professional-grade designs, bridging the gap between the small student amps of the 1940s and the more powerful stage workhorses that would define the 1950s and beyond.
This particular example, serial number 3693, retains remarkable originality. It still has its original transformers—a key factor in preserving the authentic tone that made these early Deluxes so desirable. Even more impressive, the original Jensen speaker remains intact and operational, providing the warm, articulate response that Jensen was renowned for during this golden era of American amp building.
The amp has been professionally serviced, ensuring reliability and safe operation while maintaining its vintage character. All service work appears to have been carried out with respect for originality, leaving the amp functioning exactly as it should without compromising its vintage value.
Cosmetically, the original tweed covering is there, showing the honest wear one would expect from a 70+ year-old amplifier. The tweed has aged gracefully, carrying the patina and character that collectors cherish.
One notable modification is the addition of an extra ON/OFF switch on the chassis. While this departs from factory specification, it does not interfere with the core originality of the amp and is a common, practical update seen on vintage tube gear.
On the top of the cabinet is a handwritten marking: “CDL S0710950.” This is almost certainly a later California driver’s license number, added by a past owner as a way to identify the amp in case of theft. California did not adopt the letter + 7-digit license number format until decades after this amplifier was built, confirming that this inscription was applied well after 1951.
Tone & Playability:
Plugging into this Deluxe reveals why these amps are so coveted. With around 10–12 watts of output, the amp delivers rich, harmonically complex clean tones at lower volumes, perfect for articulate chord work or studio use. Push it harder, and it rewards with smooth, creamy overdrive—an early blueprint for the sound that would later be associated with rock, blues, and country.
Historical Significance:
The 1951 “TV front” Deluxe sits at a pivotal moment in Fender’s evolution. Soon after, Fender would transition into the wide-panel tweed era, and eventually the narrow-panel tweeds of the mid-to-late 1950s, which went on to inspire countless amp designs. Owning an original TV front Deluxe means holding a piece of Fender’s earliest professional lineage—a working amplifier that helped shape modern electric guitar music.
Summary:
Model: Fender Deluxe “TV front”
Year: 1951
Serial Number: 3693
Transformers: Original
Speaker: Original Jensen
Cabinet: Original tweed covering
Condition: Serviced, fully functional
Modification: Extra ON/OFF switch added