We’re suckers for two things when it comes to Telecasters: a double-bound body and a Dakota Red finish. Put the two together and, well, resistance is futile. Now add David Brown as the masterbuilder behind it? Forget it, we’re all in.

This 1960-style Telecaster is one of several David Brown Masterbuilts we’ve had through the shop, and every one continues to impress. His signature touches are all here: spot-on neck carves, exceptional fretwork, and flawless fit and finish throughout. This one features a ’60s Oval C profile (.82–.93"), a round-laminate rosewood fingerboard, and 21 perfectly polished 6150 frets. One standout detail? The thin satin lacquer finish on the neck - it feels effortless in-hand and adds a boutique-level refinement that really sets Masterbuilts apart.

Because one builder oversees the entire process - from wood selection to final assembly - you get a level of cohesion and feel that’s hard to achieve any other way. And David made some killer choices here, including a set of Josefina-wound Red Hot Tele pickups. As the name implies, these are wound to be a bit hotter than vintage spec, and you hear and feel it (response-wise): less icepick twang, more P90-like midrange, and a clear, chimey top-end that really opens up when you push your amp. Whether you're after gritty rock tones or high-octane country runs, this guitar delivers.

• Body//Body--2pc. Alder Body, Finish--Thin Nitro lacquer, Color--Dakota Red, Aging Level--DLX Closet Classic, Binding--Top/Back
• Neck//Neck--Quarter Sawn Maple, Fingerboard--Round laminated AAA Rosewood, Carve--60s Style Oval C (.82-.93"), Radius--7 1/4" - 9 1/2" compound radius, Frets--6150 Medium Jumbo, Dots--White, Tuners--Fender vintage style, Finish--Thin Satin Lacquer
• Hardware//Pickups--Custom Shop Josefina Red Hot Tele pickups, Controls--Volume/Tone/Tone/3-Way, Pickguard--3-Ply White, Bridge--CS Vintage style w/steel saddles, Nut--Bone 1.65"
• Other//Weight--7lbs 11oz, Serial Number--R135583, Case--Original Hardshell w/CoA