Av ii 77 Tele Custom Rw Owt: A Timeless Classic

The Telecaster name is synonymous with electric guitar history. Since its debut in the early 1950s, it’s been a staple for musicians across genres think country twang, bluesy bends, and rock riffs. Fender has kept the Tele evolving, and in the 1970s, they introduced the Telecaster Custom, a game-changer with its humbucker pickup twist. Fast forward to 2022, and the American Vintage II series brought back the 1977 version in all its glory, complete with a rosewood fingerboard (RW) and Olympic White finish (OWT).

This isn’t just a reissue; it’s a love letter to the past, crafted for today’s players. In the pages ahead, we’ll unpack everything from its vintage roots to its modern appeal, so grab a coffee and let’s get started.

History of the 1977 Telecaster Custom

The Telecaster’s Beginnings

The Telecaster story kicks off in 1950 when Leo Fender unveiled the Esquire, a simple single-pickup guitar. It evolved into the Broadcaster, then the Telecaster in 1951 after a naming hiccup. With its solid body and bright tone, it became a hit with working musicians. The 1950s and ‘60s saw it cement its status, but by the 1970s, Fender was ready to shake things up.

Enter the Telecaster Custom

In 1972, Fender launched the Telecaster Custom, blending tradition with innovation. The big news? A Wide Range humbucker in the neck position, paired with the classic single-coil at the bridge. This gave players a richer, fatter tone alongside that signature Tele snap. The Custom also sported a new look dual volume and tone controls on a larger pickguard and a toggle switch up top.

By 1977, the Custom had matured. It featured an alder body with smoother contours, a maple neck topped with rosewood, and finishes like Olympic White that screamed vintage cool. This model caught the eye of legends like Keith Richards, who wielded it on stage with The Rolling Stones, solidifying its place in rock history.

The American Vintage II Revival

Fender’s American Vintage II series, launched in 2022, aims to recreate classic models with precision. The AV II 77 Tele Custom RW OWT is a star of the lineup, bringing back the 1977 vibe down to the smallest details like the CuNiFe magnets in the humbucker, a material unused since the ‘80s. It’s a bridge between past and present, offering nostalgia without sacrificing playability.

Features and Specifications

What’s under the hood of this beauty? Let’s break it down.

Body and Finish

• Material: Alder

• Finish: Olympic White

• Shape: Classic Telecaster with contoured edges

Alder’s a go-to wood for its balanced sound solid lows, clear highs, and a touch of midrange warmth. The Olympic White finish isn’t just eye candy; it lets the wood breathe, enhancing resonance.

Neck and Fingerboard

• Neck: Maple

• Fingerboard: Rosewood

• Profile: 1977 “C” shape

• Scale: 25.5 inches

• Radius: 7.25 inches

• Frets: 21 medium jumbo

• Nut: Bone, 1.650 inches wide

The maple neck and rosewood combo is a Fender classic smooth, warm, and fast. The “C” profile feels just right, while the vintage radius and frets nod to old-school playability.

Pickups and Electronics

• Neck: Wide Range humbucker (CuNiFe magnets)

• Bridge: Pure Vintage ‘77 single-coil

• Controls: Two volume, two tone, 3-way switch

The humbucker brings the beefy tones, while the single-coil keeps that Tele bite. The CuNiFe magnets are the secret sauce, delivering the authentic 1977 sound.

Hardware

• Bridge: 6-saddle slotted steel

• Tuners: “F” stamped vintage-style

• Neck Plate: 3-bolt with Micro-Tilt

• Pickguard: 3-ply black/white/black

Every piece of hardware screams vintage, from the tuners to the bridge saddles, ensuring stability and tone.

Quick Specs Table

This table sums up the essentials for a quick glance.

Sound and Playability

What It Sounds Like

The AV II 77 Tele Custom is a tonal chameleon. The neck humbucker dishes out warm, thick sounds think creamy blues or jazzy chords. Flip to the bridge, and you’ve got that crisp, twangy Tele tone perfect for rock or country. Blend them, and you get a sweet spot of mids and highs that cuts through any mix.

Playing Feel

The neck’s “C” shape and rosewood board make it a joy to play smooth yet grippy. The 7.25-inch radius keeps it vintage, ideal for chording or bending. The body contours hug you just right, whether you’re jamming for hours or standing on stage.

Player Feedback

Guitarists rave about its versatility and authenticity. The CuNiFe humbucker gets special love for nailing that ‘70s vibe, while the overall build feels solid and responsive.

Comparison with Other Telecasters

How does it stack up? Here’s a look at the AV II 77 Tele Custom versus the American Professional II Tele and the American Original ‘70s Tele Custom.

Comparison Table

Key Takeaways

• Tone: The AV II’s humbucker gives it an edge over the Pro II’s all-single-coil setup.

• Feel: Vintage radius versus modern your call based on preference.

• Looks: The AV II leans hard into 1977 authenticity.

Why Choose the AV II 77 Tele Custom RW OWT?

Standout Features

• Tone Variety: Humbucker and single-coil in one package.

• Vintage Vibe: CuNiFe magnets and Olympic White finish.

• Craftsmanship: Built to last with historical accuracy.

For Collectors

It’s a near-perfect replica of a ‘70s icon, minus the wear and tear of an original. A must-have for Fender fans.

Genre Flexibility

From country to jazz to rock, this Tele adapts effortlessly, making it a studio and stage star.

FAQ

What’s special about the 1977 Telecaster Custom?

It’s the humbucker-single-coil combo and vintage design that set it apart, offering tonal depth and classic style.

Does the Olympic White finish change its sound?

Not directly it’s more about aesthetics and resonance freedom, though some swear it feels livelier.

Rosewood vs. maple fingerboard why choose rosewood?

Rosewood warms up the tone a bit, pairing nicely with the humbucker for a smoother feel.

Can this guitar handle metal or jazz?

Yep! The humbucker opens doors to heavier or mellower genres beyond traditional Tele territory.

Conclusion

The Fender American Vintage II 1977 Tele Custom RW OWT is a masterpiece that bridges decades. Its rich history, killer tones, and player-friendly design make it a standout choice. Whether you’re chasing vintage magic or need a versatile workhorse, this Tele delivers. Ready to make it yours?