Esquire-ing a MIM Telecaster - Part 2 (with piccies)

HAL9000

You may recall that I recently bought a MIM Tele to mod so as to scratch my Esquire itch.

The intention was not to have something too authentically vintage Esquire, but rather a more modern take. I definitely wanted a 9.5” radius fretboard, trussrod adjustment at the headstock end, and a six-saddle bridge.

I know it isn’t going to suit the purists but, anyway, here’s some pics...

 https://www.amazon.co.uk/photos/share/7y4hyBkyTA8nZyKv3DnQY8VbaG52hUsL0INfWtPTtLx

https://www.amazon.co.uk/photos/share/N0wlRW80veik9ePKgUc5qaVn8y5rj6uj12zOb2GBOoB

https://www.amazon.co.uk/photos/share/C1rfcaj8sYXTr9TBY3gveVqcdVmWARctDsNQhIBLF0h

https://www.amazon.co.uk/photos/share/KN3pLYSopoEI1RJlAgMEcapl29eEjRE2SfkCuhDVajy

A big big thanks to all those who helped with their suggestions for parts etc...

The original bridge with zinc saddles was replaced by a Gotoh equivalent with steel saddles. Definitely gives a purer, and more clearly defined, tone than the stock item.

The pickup is an Oil City Alligator 90. First impressions are that it has been machined from pure weapons-grade awesome. A very nice pickup indeed.

The scratchplate came (via eBay) from Guitars Electric.

Finally, the control plate was bought from RockRabbit. I know it won’t be to everyone’s taste, but this is exactly the kind of pared-down look I was after. I didn’t particularly want the usual Esquire tonal options or the blade switch which, let’s face it, mostly gets in the way.

further

Loverly,really like that

HAL9000

Oops!

stimpsonslostson

"The pickup is an Oil City Alligator 90. First impressions are that it has been machined from pure weapons-grade awesome. A very nice pickup indeed."

I couldn't agree more. I've had one in my Esquire for some time & you nailed it. It's AWESOME!

Very nice build. I like the modern twists you've added. My latest partscaster was a "modern tele deluxe" 12" board, PAFs etc.