Originally launched in 1959, the Custom Telecaster was the first Fender production-model Tele to have a binding around it’s body.

The new model had some other distinctive features, such as it’s neck. Instead of being all-maple as on previous Fenders, the neck was a two-piece component made from alder with a rosewood fingerboard.

The traditional blonde finish and black pickguard were also replaced, with a sunburst paint job and white pickguard.