Here we have a very special Founders Design Telecaster, created by Alan Hamel. This 2017 limited run celebrates the 30th Anniversary of the Fender Custom Shop by issuing a build conceptualized by each of the original "founding" Masterbuilders.

The Alan Hamel Tele features his signature black sparkle finish, as well as star fretboard inlays. The hardware is vintage chrome Fender, though he elected to run compensated brass saddles for modern playability. The guitar also features a 10/56 boat neck with a flat 12" radius and 6105 fret wire. Originally this guitar came with dual Alan Hamel pickups including a take on the Twisted Tele in the neck, and his special Broadcaster pickup in the bridge. The Bridge pickup on this model has been changed to a Duncan STL-1 Vintage '54 however and the original is not included. One final special touch with this instrument is a 5-way that allows for normal Tele functions as well as a pre-set blend of both pickups.

The guitar has seen some playing time, it does have the changed bridge pickup. It also has wear on the control plate and knobs from heavy volume & tone rolling. The bridge saddles show some wear as well. There are a couple notable dings on the back as well as one on the side. The neck looks to be quite clean. The frets show a hint of wear down low. The clear guard shows pick marks and faint scratching when you catch it with the light. Beyond this, the guitar presents quite well.

It weighs 7lbs 11oz. The neck measures .910 to 1.005 at the 1st and 12th. It's a full Nocaster type of neck shape, but with that 10/56 soft V down low and full rounded C up high. This one is glassy, sparkly, and twangy. It has a nice tight focus about it, but also plays quite easily in all positions. It's a great looking guitar as well, with a black sparkle burst that has a hint of emerald green hue.

Ships in the original hardshell case with the Founders Design logo embroidered on the interior. Includes the COA, Floor Traveler, and hang tag.