While a lot of Fender enthusiasts look to the 50s and early 60s for "the good ones", ie. anything pre-CBS, the real diehards know that there are exceptional examples to be found in the late 60s thru early 70s.

We mention this only because we're a little surprised ourselves to find that some of our favorite modern Custom Shop guitars have been based on late 60s models. There's something about a vintage white, 3-ply pickguard, rosewood board, mother of pearl dots that we're suckers for.

More importantly though, we're suckers for the feel, responsiveness, and tone of these Custom Shop guitars. The 60s Oval C carve is exceptionally comfortable and would be right at home for all but the pickiest players (those who might prefer fatter Nocaster style carves, for example). It has us reaching for licks and chordal playing much in the same way a great Strat neck does.

Plugged into our trusty Victoria Vicky Verb, the Custom Shop '67 pickups deliver quintessential Tele tones. Great, manageable bite and twang from the bridge position, round, warm neck pickup tones...which blend beautifully in the middle position.

Simply put? It's a classic Tele with excellent playability, tones, and vibe. Nothing more, nothing less - and that's perfection.