1969 Fender Telecaster – “Rosewood” Prototype
At first glance, this might look like any other Rosewood Telecaster. However, this original 1969 example is actually a Fender prototype featuring an Ash body painted to look like Rosewood! As outlined in an accompanying letter written by Fender legend Bill Carson, there were a few issues with the initial production of the full Rosewood Telecaster. Due to finish issues, availability, and the heavy weight of the rosewood slabs, Fender decided to take a lightweight ash body and finish it in a shade that mimics real Rosewood. This is the only guitar that ever received this body finish, though the neck is still fully rosewood. With lightweight ash also becoming increasingly difficult to source, the entire project was abandoned. It’s remarkable how well-preserved this piece of Fender history is, with hardly any wear at all. It feels fantastic in the hand, and thanks to this relatively lightweight body, it’s much easier to play for long periods compared to a heavier full-Rosewood construction. In addition to being a great-looking and sounding instrument, this guitar is an awesome piece of Fender’s history! It even retains its original Fender bench tag on the handle, marking this guitar as “experimental”.
Overall Condition: 10, near mint
Specifications
- finish_details Rosewood Tint, Original, Near Mint Condition, virtually no wear or finish checking
- body_material Ash
- neck_material Rosewood
- fretboard_material Rosewood
- neck_profile Medium C
- weight 7 lbs 10 oz
- scale_length 25-1/2"
- pickup_readings N: 6.77K B: 6.09K
- tubes
- speakers
- electronics Original, Untouched
- nut_width 1-5/8"
- hardware Original, Excellent Condition, some light playwear and patina
- includes Original Black Hardshell Case, Letter and photo of Bill Carson, original Fender bench tag on handle
- year 1969
Well Strung Guitars
Upon receipt, if you are dissatisfied with your purchase, you must notify WSG within 24 hours. We will refund your money as soon as the merchandise is returned to us in the same condition as when it shipped out. The customer is responsible for all shipping, insurance, and bank fees that may be incurred throughout the return process. All returns must be packaged in the same materials that the guitar was sent out to ensure the safety of the instrument. All claims regarding loss or damage are the responsibility of the purchaser.