Part of Fender’s limited Telebration series, this Empress Telecaster keeps American Standard specs but swaps in a lightweight Empress (Paulownia) body and a 3-saddle steel bridge. Empress — properly Paulownia Tomentosa — is a fast-growing wood from central and western China, prized for its clear, straight, knot-free grain and commonly used in Japanese instruments like the koto. It matures in about 10 years, making it one of the more sustainable tonewood options out there.
This one dates to 2012 and is in excellent condition. It’s remarkably light and comfortable to play, with the snap and clarity you’d expect from an ash or alder Tele. Original black hardshell case included.