Introduction to the Fender Custom Shop 1950 Double Esquire Nocaster Blonde
Before the Telecaster® forever changed the world in 1951, Leo Fender built several prototype guitars. He tested various concepts that ultimately influenced the final result.
The Vintage Custom 1950 Double Esquire is a faithful recreation of one of those early models: the incredibly rare dual-pickup Esquire.
Features and Appointments
This guitar is outfitted with unique and compelling appointments designed to appeal to both modern players and vintage tone enthusiasts. It features hand-wound 50 ’51 Blackguard pickups that provide an incredibly fat and juicy tone. Additionally, it comes with modified ’51 Nocaster® wiring and controls.
One standout feature is the blender pot, which replaces a standard tone control. Also, an extra resistor on the rhythm circuit enhances output sweetness. The neck has a vintage 7.25″-9.5″ compound radius, offering a unique feel even among vintage-inspired models.
Playability and Construction
The guitar also boasts medium vintage frets, which are slightly larger than traditional vintage frets. This makes them very comfortable to play.
In terms of construction, notable features include a NOS flash-coat lacquer Nocaster Blonde finish, Closet Classic hardware, a 2-piece off-center-seam ash body, and a tinted maple rift-sawn neck with a 10/56 “V”-shaped neck profile. There are 21 medium vintage frets, a 3-way switch, a black phenolic pickguard, a ’51-’54 Tele bridge with brass saddles, a bone nut, a round string tree, and vintage-style tuning machines.
A Glimpse into History
The 1950 Double Esquire serves as a historic precursor to an undisputed legend, providing insight into the innovations that were pivotal in the development of the Telecaster. It includes a deluxe hardshell case, strap, and Certificate of Authenticity.
Here are the detailed specifications of the Fender Custom Shop 1950 Double Esquire Nocaster Blonde
Series: Vintage Custom
Body Shape: Telecaster
Neck Material: Maple Rift Sawn
Neck Shape: 10/56 “V”
Scale Length: 25.5″ (648 mm)
Fingerboard Radius: 7.25″ to 9.5″ Compound Radius (184 mm to 241 mm)
Number of Frets: 21
Frets Size: Medium Vintage 50085
String Nut: Bone
Nut Width: 1.650″ (42 mm)
Truss Rods: Vintage-Style Heel Adjust
Bridge Pickup: Custom Shop Hand-Wound ’50-’51 Blackguard
Neck Pickup: Custom Shop Hand-Wound ’50-’51 Blackguard
Controls: Volume, Blend
Pickup Switching: 3-Position Toggle:
Position 1: Bridge Pickup With Blender, Position 2: Neck Pickup with Volume, Position 3: Neck Pickup with Volume, 10K Resistor, and .001uF Capacitor
Pickup Configuration: SS
Bridge: 3-Saddle Vintage-Style Strings-Through-Body Tele with Brass Barrel Saddles
Tuning Machines: Vintage-Style with Fender Logo
Strings: Fender USA, NPS, (.010-.046 Gauges)
Included Accessories: Deluxe Hardshell Case, Strap, Certificate of Authenticity
Dimensions: 6.4 x 17.3 x 43.5 IN
Weight: 25.6 LB
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