*Fender USA Custom Shop Masterbuilt '52 Relic Telecaster Greg Fessler "Black + Maple" (2022)
Specifications
Model: Masterbuilt '52 Telecaster Relic
Builder: Greg Fessler
Year: 2022
Finish: Black (Nitrocellulose, Relic)
Body: Roasted Ash
Neck: Quarter-Sawn Roasted Maple
Neck Profile: Large “C”
Fingerboard: Roasted Maple
Frets: 21 Narrow Tall 6105
Radius: 9.5"
Pickups:
Neck: Custom Shop Handwound Twisted Tele by Josefina
Bridge: Custom Shop Handwound "OBG" (Original Blackguard) by Josefina
Electronics: Master Volume, Master Tone, 3-Way Selector Switch
Bridge: Vintage-Style Telecaster with Compensated Brass Saddles
Tuners: Vintage-Style Fender
Scale Length: 25.5"
Nut: Bone
Hardware: Nickel
 
Personal Thoughts
This Greg Fessler Masterbuilt '52 Telecaster Relic is an extraordinary instrument that showcases the best of Fender's Custom Shop craftsmanship. The Roasted Ash body is not only lightweight but also provides superb resonance and a beautifully balanced tone. The Black nitrocellulose relic finish gives this guitar a vintage look and feel, while allowing the wood grain to shine through, adding a touch of rustic elegance.
The Quarter-Sawn Roasted Maple neck with a Large “C” profile feels substantial in hand without being overly chunky, offering a perfect balance for both vintage enthusiasts and modern players. The Roasted Maple fretboard combined with the 9.5" radius and Narrow Tall frets makes for an exceptionally smooth and versatile playing experience.
The handwound pickups by Josefina Campos are the highlight of this guitar, delivering impeccable tone. The Twisted Tele neck pickup offers a glassy, articulate sound, perfect for rhythm and cleans, while the OBG bridge pickup delivers the punchy, bright tone that defines the Telecaster's iconic voice.
 
Condition Report
This guitar is in mint condition, with its Relic finish meticulously applied by Fender's Custom Shop. The aged Black finish, subtle checking, and vintage-style hardware give this Telecaster the charm of a well-played vintage instrument, despite being a modern masterpiece. The frets and fingerboard are immaculate, and all hardware and electronics function perfectly.
 
Why It’s Special
As a one-of-a-kind creation by Master Builder Greg Fessler, this Telecaster is more than just an instrument—it’s a collectible piece of art. Built with the finest tonewoods and attention to detail, it’s designed to inspire and perform at the highest level. Whether you’re a serious collector or a discerning player, this '52 Telecaster is a guitar that delivers unparalleled tone, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal.