New for 2023, the Fender Custom Shop introduces the ’57 Telecaster Journeyman Relic. An expertly crafted incarnation of the Telecaster from a particularly prized model year, it’s loaded with looks, sound and vibe that authentically evoke the instrument in the second half of its debut decade.

The two-piece select ash body produces sweet midrange and tight lows, and wears striking Journeyman Relic lacquer finishes in Aged White Blonde, Wide Fade Two-Color Sunburst and Aged Candy Tangerine. This special treatment imparts the look of a guitar that has changed hands or been handed down over the years, mostly played around the house and the occasional jam session or weekend gig. This generally well-cared-for look includes light finish checking, several “friendly” down-to-the-wood nicks and dings, some dulling of the hardware, and general moderate playing wear. The look of a very lucky find, in short.

The one-piece quartersawn maple neck is sculpted with a ’57-style Soft “V” profile for comfortable and period-correct full-hand feel, topped by a 9.5” radius maple fingerboard with 21 narrow tall (6105) frets and a bone nut. Dual Custom Shop hand-wound ’58 Telecaster pickups with Fat ‘50s Tele wiring deliver clear, crisp highs with well-balanced midrange and low end.

Other premium features include a single-ply parchment pickguard, three-way pickup switch, ’55-’57 Telecaster® bridge with steel barrel saddles, vintage-style tuners, wing string tree, deluxe hardshell case, strap and certificate of authenticity.