Pricing and availability

Average Price: $26,500

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The 1961 Fender Telecaster is more than just an electric guitar; it's a timeless piece of musical history that continues to captivate players with its distinctive sound and impeccable craftsmanship. A favorite among enthusiasts who cherish both its classic aesthetics and modern playability, this Telecaster is revered for its warm, rich tones that cut through any mix without the "icepick" harshness often associated with other Teles.

Crafted with a durable quartersawn maple neck and a smooth AAA rosewood fingerboard, this guitar promises not only visual appeal but also long-lasting stability and comfort. The mid-'60s Oval "C" profile ensures a comfortable grip, while the 9.5" radius allows for effortless playability, making it a joy for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

At the heart of this instrument are the hand-wound Texas Special single-coil pickups, designed to deliver classic Telecaster twang and bite with a powerful output that can drive a tube amp into a blissful overdrive. The innovative Greasebucket tone circuit gives you the freedom to roll off highs without losing clarity, ensuring your sound remains defined and articulate.

With its nitrocellulose lacquer finish and eye-catching 3-ply nitro shell pickguard, the 1961 Fender Telecaster is not just a feast for the ears but also a visual delight. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a passionate collector, this Telecaster offers an unrivaled experience that bridges the past and present of rock and roll.

Key Features:

  • Solidbody electric guitar with a blend of modern and classic features
  • Hand-wound Texas Special single-coil pickups
  • Relic'd quartersawn mid-'60s Oval C-shaped maple neck
  • Greasebucket tone circuit for clear, defined tones
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer finish and 3-ply nitro shell pickguard
  • Includes Certificate of Authenticity

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Telecaster
Finish Blonde
Year 1961
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Ash
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Yellow
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Vintage Pre-CBS Era
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1961 Fender Telecaster?

The 1961 Fender Telecaster features a "C" shaped neck profile, which is comfortable and suits a variety of playing styles, making it ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What kind of tones can I expect from the 1961 Fender Telecaster pickups?

The 1961 Fender Telecaster is equipped with single-coil pickups that deliver a bright, clear tone with a classic twang, making it perfect for genres like country, rock, and blues.

Is the 1961 Fender Telecaster suitable for beginners?

While the 1961 Fender Telecaster is a vintage instrument prized by collectors and experienced players, its straightforward design and playability can be appreciated by beginners who are serious about their craft.

How does the 1961 Fender Telecaster differ from later models?

The 1961 Fender Telecaster is part of the pre-CBS era, known for its superior craftsmanship and distinct tonal characteristics, which many players feel offer a more authentic vintage sound compared to later models.

What is the fretboard material on the 1961 Fender Telecaster?

The fretboard of the 1961 Fender Telecaster is made from rosewood, providing a warm tone and smooth playing surface.

eddievegas1

eddievegas1

1961 Fender Telecaster Eddie Vegas

Video thumbnail for 1961 Fender Telecaster Eddie Vegas by eddievegas1

1961 Fender Telecaster Eddie Vegas

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eddievegas1

Video thumbnail for 1961 Fender Telecaster Blonde by Ten Guitars TV

1961 Fender Telecaster Blonde

Ten Guitars TV

Ten Guitars TV

Video thumbnail for 1961 Fender Telecaster Eddie Vegas by eddievegas1

1961 Fender Telecaster Eddie Vegas

eddievegas1

eddievegas1

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1961 Fender Telecaster.

Features and functionality

  • The 1961 Tele relic features Twisted Tele pickups in the neck and HW Original Black Guard pickups in the bridge, providing versatile tonal options.

    Source
  • The rosewood fingerboard is highlighted for its aesthetic appeal, complementing the sparkle finish.

    Source

Build quality

  • The finish is described as a convincing relic job with aged and oxidized hardware, enhanced by the unique Daphne Blue sparkle color.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the Daphne Blue sparkle finish favorably to other finishes like Lake Placid Blue, noting its distinctiveness and aesthetic appeal.

    Source

User experience

  • The guitar's neck radius is 9.5, deviating slightly from 1961 specs for improved playability.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Vintage Gear Flashback: 1961 Fender Telecaster | Performer Mag

performermag.com

summary text The 1961 Fender Telecaster is celebrated for its unique neck and iconic sound, famously heard on "Pretty Woman" by Roy Orbison. A Nashville studio staple, it's praised for its playability and historical significance, particularly with its unmodified vintage status. While the review gushes over its legacy and sound, it lacks critique on any potential drawbacks, offering a nostalgic nod to its storied past.

positive

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Artist usage

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See how David Gilmour uses 1961 Fender Telecaster

David Gilmour

Guitarist

Pink Floyd

...
Verified via Photo

In this interview with Guitar World, David Gilmour's 1961 Fender Telecaster is mentioned:

"Gilmour also travels with a '61 Telecaster with a Charvel neck, which was pictured on the cover of his 1984 solo album, About Face, as well as a '52 vintage series re-issue Tele for the song 'Run Like Hell.'"

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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