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Average Price: $1,595

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$1001+

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Description

The Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire is not just a guitar; it's a tribute to the instrument that set the stage for all solidbody electrics. This limited-edition piece commemorates the Esquire's role as a trailblazer in the world of electric guitars. Introduced in 1950, the original Esquire was a simple yet revolutionary design, featuring a single-cutaway silhouette and a solitary bridge pickup—elements that paved the way for its more famous sibling, the Telecaster.

This anniversary model captures the spirit of the original while incorporating modern enhancements. Crafted with a lightweight roasted pine body, the Esquire delivers a punchy and complex tone, made more resonant through Fender's unique roasting process. The guitar is equipped with a custom Tim Shaw-designed pickup, inspired by an original 1950 Esquire, ensuring it not only looks but sounds authentically vintage.

With its thick "U"-shaped neck, gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish, and vintage-style components, the 70th Anniversary Esquire is as much a player's guitar as it is a collector's piece. Whether you're channeling the classic twangy tones of the 50s or exploring new sonic territories, this guitar promises a versatile and immersive playing experience. Limited to 2020 production, it's a rare opportunity to own a piece of musical history.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight roasted pine body with gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish
  • Maple neck with Thick "U" profile and maple fingerboard
  • Custom Tim Shaw-designed Esquire bridge pickup
  • Master Volume and Tone controls
  • 3-saddle American Vintage strings-through-body Tele bridge
  • Vintage-style tuners and bone nut
  • Includes a special anniversary neck plate and tweed hardshell case
  • Crafted by Fender luthiers in Corona, CA

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model 70th Anniversary Esquire
Finish 2-Color Sunburst, Lake Placid Blue, Surf Green, White Blonde
Year 2020
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Blue, Brown, Green, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Esquire
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire?

The Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire features a one-piece maple neck with a 7.25” radius fingerboard and 21 vintage-tall frets, providing a classic feel and comfortable playability reminiscent of vintage models.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Tim Shaw Designed Esquire bridge pickup?

The Tim Shaw Designed Esquire bridge pickup delivers a bright, punchy tone with plenty of twang, ideal for genres like country, rock, and blues. Its Esquire Tone Circuit allows for a versatile range of sounds from biting lead tones to smooth rhythm sounds.

Is the Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire suitable for beginners?

While the Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire is designed with vintage enthusiasts in mind, its straightforward single-pickup design and classic playability can also make it an excellent choice for dedicated beginners interested in exploring classic Fender tones.

How does the Esquire Tone Circuit enhance the guitar's sound?

The Esquire Tone Circuit offers a unique tonal palette by providing different tonal options through its switch positions, allowing players to achieve a variety of sounds from the single bridge pickup, ranging from bright and cutting to warm and mellow.

What are the standout features of the Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire's construction?

Notable features include a roasted pine body for enhanced resonance, a one-piece maple neck for a smooth playing experience, and a custom neckplate, which adds a touch of exclusivity to this anniversary edition.

Robert Baker

Robert Baker

Fender Got It Right! ( The Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire)

Video thumbnail for Fender Got It Right! ( The Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire) by Robert Baker

Fender Got It Right! ( The Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire)

Robert Baker

Robert Baker

Video thumbnail for 70th Anniversary Esquire | Fender by Fender

70th Anniversary Esquire | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for Country Licks & Chicken Pickin' Tricks! - Limited Edition Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire Guitars by Andertons Music Co

Country Licks & Chicken Pickin' Tricks! - Limited Edition Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire Guitars

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for It's Simple... but Is It Good? | 2020 Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

It's Simple... but Is It Good? | 2020 Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1958 Fender Esquire VS 70th Anniversary Fender Esquire. (Brand New vs Brand Old) by Robert Baker

1958 Fender Esquire VS 70th Anniversary Fender Esquire. (Brand New vs Brand Old)

Robert Baker

Robert Baker

Video thumbnail for TONE CHECK: Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire Demo | No Talking by Cream City Music

TONE CHECK: Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire Demo | No Talking

Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Video thumbnail for 70th Anniversary Esquire by Casino Guitars

70th Anniversary Esquire

Casino Guitars

Casino Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire - In-Depth Demo by N Stuff Music

Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire - In-Depth Demo

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Fender Limited Edition 70th Anniversary Esquire | Maple - Lake Placid Blue by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Fender Limited Edition 70th Anniversary Esquire | Maple - Lake Placid Blue

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for My Fender Esquire - 70th Anniversary by Rich Bischoff

My Fender Esquire - 70th Anniversary

Rich Bischoff

Rich Bischoff

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptionally lightweight due to roasted pine body design

  • Tim Shaw bridge pickup offers extensive tonal possibilities

  • Classic design with subtle wood grain visibility

  • Comfortable neck shape for a range of hand sizes

  • Well-balanced and does not dig into the player's leg

  • Single pickup delivers more sparkle than a Les Paul Jr.

  • Provides a great depth of tone, surpassing Melodymaker models

  • Vintage-inspired sound with modern playability

  • Nitro finish enhances overall sound quality

CONS

  • Thicker lacquer finish may feel plastic-like to some

  • Neck profile not as large as traditional '50s "U" shape

  • Limited color options, excluding original black finish

  • Price perceived as high compared to perceived value

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire.

Features and functionality

  • The Esquire's switch can be configured for tone control bypass, volume and tone control, or treble roll-off, offering unexpected tonal variations.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The 70th Anniversary Esquire allows for a neck pickup addition, utilizing a non-beveled bakelite 5-hole black-guard with a pickup cutout.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners mention that the Esquire's wiring provides more tonal variation than expected, enhancing its versatility beyond a typical single-pickup guitar.

    Source

Other

  • The Esquire's body is routed for a neck pickup, similar to the 1950 model, facilitating future modifications without altering the original design.

    Source
  • There is some debate on whether three-piece construction is preferable, with some claiming it offers better quality than four-piece bodies.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners note that the Esquire's body is made from three pieces of pine, a detail that some find disappointing for a high-priced model.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's observed that the Esquire uses a three-piece body, whereas some lower-priced models like the Player Tele might use two pieces, potentially indicating different wood selection criteria.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite being a high-priced model, the use of pine wood in the Esquire raises questions about the perceived cost-cutting measures compared to other models.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender 70th Anniversary Esquire Review | GuitarPlayer

guitarplayer.com

Fender's 70th Anniversary Esquire is a masterclass in vintage design, exuding lightness and tonal versatility from its single-pickup configuration. The flawless nitro finish and thoughtful old-style electronics yield a range of sounds that impress, making it a fitting tribute to its groundbreaking legacy. However, the cumbersome neck adjustment process—requiring removal for truss rod tweaks—might deter some players. Overall, it stands as a vibrant nod to the past, perfect for those who appreciate classic craftsmanship coupled with modern playability.

positive

Fender’s 70th Anniversary Esquire | Vintage Guitar® magazine

vintageguitar.com

Fender's 70th Anniversary Esquire cleverly melds nostalgia and innovation, featuring a lightweight, roasted pine body and a punchy custom pickup that delivers vintage clarity. While its one-pickup design may limit versatility for some, its unique sound and aesthetic—especially in striking finishes—make it a compelling choice for players seeking a distinctive tone. However, at $1,999, budget-conscious musicians might find it a stretch. Ultimately, this guitar celebrates its legacy while inviting contemporary players to explore its formidable soundscape.

positive

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