For Sale: 2006 Fender CIJ Japan TL52-88SPL ’52 Telecaster Micawber – Vintage Natural w/ Tweed HSC

Up for sale is a 2006 Fender CIJ Japan TL52-88SPL ’52 Telecaster in Vintage Natural, complete with a non-original tweed hard-shell case.

This is a very cool and increasingly hard-to-find Fender Japan model built in the style of the iconic Micawber Telecaster. With its ash body, one-piece maple neck, black single-ply pickguard, and unique pickup configuration, it captures the look, feel, and attitude of one of the most recognizable Telecaster styles ever. Fender Japan nailed the vintage vibe on these, and they continue to be highly regarded for their consistency and craftsmanship.

Condition

This guitar is in very good condition (8/10).

It shows light scratches, dings, wear on the back, a small amount of finish checking at the neck joint (clear coat only), an extra strap button hole, and some tarnish to the hardware from normal use. Please review all photos carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.

There are no cracks, breaks, or structural issues. The neck is straight, the frets are in good shape, and the guitar plays cleanly up and down the neck with no buzzing or dead spots. It has also been recently professionally set up and is ready to go.

The non-original tweed hard-shell case is included.

Specifications

• Model: TL52-88SPL
• Year: 2006
• Crafted in Japan (CIJ)
• Serial Number: S055971
• Weight: 7 lbs 4 oz
• Nut Width: 1.69"
• Neck Depth: .85" (1st fret), .93" (12th fret)
• Neck Profile: Thin C
• Body: Ash
• Finish: Vintage Natural
• Neck: 1-Piece Maple
• Fingerboard: Maple
• Radius: 7.25"
• Frets: 22 Vintage-Style
• Pickups: Fender Japan TL-Vintage Single-Coil (Bridge), Fender Dragster Humbucker (Neck)
  
• Pickguard: Single-Ply Black
• Case: Non-Original Tweed Hard-Shell Case

Electronics & Features

One of the biggest draws of this model is its Micawber-style configuration. The combination of a traditional Tele bridge pickup with a neck humbucker gives it added versatility compared to a standard Telecaster, while still keeping that unmistakable vintage Fender character.

The ash body and classic hardware give it a strong vintage foundation, while the black guard and natural finish provide that iconic, stripped-down aesthetic players associate with this style.

Tone & Feel

This guitar delivers the punchy, lively response you’d expect from a great ash-bodied Telecaster. It has clear highs, strong attack, and that dry, snappy character that works especially well for classic rock, country, blues, and roots-oriented playing.

The neck humbucker adds warmth and fullness, making it a more versatile instrument overall.

The thin C neck feels comfortable and easy in the hand, and the 7.25" radius keeps it firmly in vintage Fender territory. At 7 lbs 4 oz, it has a nicely balanced and resonant feel.

Transparency & Photos

As with all Guitar Chimp listings, detailed photos are provided of the actual instrument. At the end of the photo set, you’ll find close-up images taken under direct lighting to highlight any wear. We don’t just describe the condition — we show it in detail so there are no surprises. Many customers tell us our guitars often arrive in better condition than expected.

Why Buy From Guitar Chimp?

With over 18 years of experience, Guitar Chimp is trusted by players and collectors worldwide for high-quality, player-ready instruments.

Every guitar is thoroughly inspected and professionally set up by our in-house luthier

We have shipped thousands of guitars all over the world

All instruments are professionally packed, fully insured, and shipped with signature confirmation

Buy with confidence knowing your instrument will arrive safely and exactly as described.

📞 Call/Text: (801) 317-9013
💬 Message anytime — always happy to help!

This 2006 Fender CIJ TL52-88SPL ’52 Telecaster is a great-playing, Micawber-style Tele with classic looks, versatile tones, and the kind of honest wear that gives it real character.

🎸 Jerald – Guitar Chimp
Providing The Finest Guitars, Basses & Amps Since 2006