Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,280

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Description

Step back in time with the 1985 Fender Telecaster, a legendary piece of musical craftsmanship that has been a favorite among guitarists for decades. This solid body electric guitar exemplifies the quintessential Telecaster tone, characterized by its bright, cutting sound and unparalleled versatility. Made during a pivotal era for Fender, the 1985 Telecaster captures the essence of vintage rock and roll while offering a reliable build that has stood the test of time.

Crafted with an ash body and a maple neck, this guitar produces a rich, resonant sound that both professionals and enthusiasts crave. The dual single-coil pickups deliver that classic Tele twang, making it ideal for a variety of genres, from country to blues and rock. Its smooth playability and precise fretwork will inspire your creativity at every turn.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the 1985 Fender Telecaster’s simple yet effective design offers a timeless allure that enhances any musician's collection. Its chrome hardware and vintage-style tuners not only provide a sleek appearance but also ensure reliable performance and tuning stability.

Key Features:

  • Year: 1985
  • Solid ash body for enhanced resonance
  • Maple neck with a comfortable C-shape profile
  • Dual single-coil pickups for classic Telecaster sound
  • 21-fret maple fingerboard
  • Vintage-style chrome hardware
  • High-quality construction offering lasting durability
wutzdog001guitars

wutzdog001guitars

1985 Fender Telecaster

Video thumbnail for 1985 Fender Telecaster by wutzdog001guitars

1985 Fender Telecaster

wutzdog001guitars

wutzdog001guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1985 Fender Telecaster.

Build quality

  • Owners note a slightly flat contour near the instrument cable jack, which may affect handling during play.

    Source
  • Some owners report the lacquer on the neck wears thin and can peel, leading to an unintentional relic effect over time.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The bridge cover on these models was originally added for aesthetics, as palm muting wasn't common during early production years.

    Source
  • The 1985 Japanese Telecaster often features see-through finishes over basswood or poplar, offering a unique aesthetic compared to modern alder or ash models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The lacquer peeling on the fretboard is noted as cosmetic, and does not affect playability, though it may continue to wear with use.

    Source

User experience

  • The Tele logo on the headstock is notably bold, drawing positive attention from owners for its distinctive aesthetic.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners prefer the build quality of 70s and 80s Japanese Fenders over contemporaneous American models, citing superior craftsmanship during that era.

    Source

Other

  • Serial numbers from this period can be confusing, with overlapping formats, but neck pocket stamps can offer clarity on model identification.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Peter Mengede uses 1985 Fender Telecaster

Peter Mengede

Guitarist

Helmet

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Verified via Guitar lessons Brisbane, Guitar Lessons Sunnybank

Peter Mengede uses a 1985 Fender Telecaster equipped with a bridge Hotrail, as detailed by Guitar Lessons Brisbane.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1985 Fender Telecaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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