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

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 of the actual instrument are provided. Toward the end of the photo set, I include close-up images taken under direct lighting to clearly highlight any wear. We don’t just describe condition — we show it in detail so there are no surprises.

Many customers comment that our guitars arrive in better condition than expected.

📦 Shipping Information

We offer fast, secure shipping anywhere in the continental USA with two flat-rate options:

Every guitar is professionally packed and fully insured for transit. We require a signature upon delivery to protect both you and the instrument — minimizing any risk during shipment.

🌍 International Shipping

We’re experienced in shipping worldwide. For international orders:

🎸 Why Buy from Guitar Chimp?

With over 18 years of experience selling premium guitars and basses both locally in Salt Lake City and online, Guitar Chimp has built a reputation for:

✅ Top-Quality Instruments
✅ Accurate, Honest Listings (real photos, no surprises)
✅ Professional Setups by Our In-House Luthier

Every instrument is thoroughly inspected, cleaned, and setup before it leaves our shop — ensuring it arrives ready to play.

Check our reviews and feedback to hear from hundreds of satisfied players around the world.

📞 Call or Text Jerald
💬 Message anytime — we're always happy to help.

Thanks for trusting Guitar Chimp — Providing the Finest Guitars, Basses & Amps since 2006.

—
Jerald
Guitar Chimp 🎸