Here’s a rare one.

The top loader Telecaster is one of those short-lived Fender experiments that today has become a sought-after variation of the renowned Fender Telecaster. Around 1958–1959, Fender moved away from the traditional string-through-body design and introduced a bridge where the strings load directly through the back of the bridge plate. A similar concept had already been used on the Precision Bass, and it was likely seen as a cost-saving move for the Telecaster as well. It didn’t last long — by mid-1959, Fender had already returned to the original design. It simply didn’t catch on with players at the time.

Rather than discarding parts, Leo Fender used the remaining top-loading bridges on string-through-body Telecasters for a period, resulting in “dual-loader” guitars that offered both options. One of the most famous examples is Jimmy Page’s 1959 “Dragon” Telecaster, used on numerous Led Zeppelin recordings — including the solo on Stairway to Heaven, which was indeed recorded with the guitar strung as a top loader.

Now to the guitar at hand.

Offered here is a 1959 Fender Telecaster in Blonde, and a beautifully preserved example.

The guitar is all original, with untouched solder joints and the dark circuit still in place. There is a small touch-up on the upper bass horn, visible in the photos. Aside from that, it presents as a clean and honest instrument.

Sound-wise, it’s a classic top loader Tele. There’s that unmistakable extra Tele bite, paired with a fast, lively response and a slightly more immediate attack that makes these guitars so enjoyable to play. It’s open, articulate, and full of character.

A rare variation of an already iconic model — with its own feel, its own sound, and a story that exists only within this short window of Fender history.

Comes with a non-original tweed case.