The Fender '52 Telecaster Reissue, introduced in 1982, is a landmark model in the company’s history, as it marked the beginning of Fender’s efforts to produce historically accurate reproductions of their iconic instruments.
By the early 1980s, under CBS ownership, Fender faced growing criticism over the declining quality of its guitars. Musicians and collectors yearned for the craftsmanship and sound of Fender's original models from the 1950s and 1960s, which had become highly sought after.
In response, Fender decided to launch a line of reissue guitars that would faithfully replicate these classic models. The '52 Telecaster Reissue was the first in this series, designed to capture the essence of the original 1952 Telecaster—one of Fender’s most iconic guitars.
This reissue was built to closely mirror the original 1952 Telecaster, using period-accurate materials, finishes, and hardware. The body was made from ash, the neck was a one-piece maple design, and it featured the signature butterscotch blonde finish with a black pickguard, just like the 1952 model. Fender also included vintage-style tuning machines, a three-saddle brass bridge, and recreated the original single-coil pickups to deliver the same sound and feel. While the wiring stayed true to the 1952 design, Fender offered a modern wiring option, as the original setup was less user-friendly. The guitar now features the modern wiring scheme, with the tone knob available in all positions.
Initially, these reissue models were produced at Fender’s Fullerton, California factory, still under CBS ownership until 1984. This particular guitar remains in excellent condition after 42 years, with its only modification being the switch to the modern wiring system. It was originally sold with vintage wiring, but a second switch and instructions for wiring modifications were provided in the manual.
1982 marked a historic year for Fender, as it was the first time the company produced reissues of the instruments that represented its golden era.
Specification :Serial number : 1442 (engraved on the bridge plate)
Pots : 1378209 (week 09 of 1982)Weight : 3.7kgs
Includes the original user manual, bridge cover, and case.