1950 Fender Broadcaster
It's not everyday that a Broadcaster walks in the door & we hunt Tele's, specifically Blackguards so this is a special treat indeed!
Broadcaster's are the first "year" of production of what would become one of the most popular & recognizable electric guitars ever made, the Telecaster.
Production of the Broadcaster began in October of 1950 (this one is dated Nov 16th of 1950, so it's very early) they ran for 5 months until February of 1951 with approx. 250 units produced. If you are a guitar nerd then you probably know Gretsch sent a message via telegram to Fender "suggesting" a name change for their electric guitars as Broadkaster was already being used by Gretsch for a line of drums. Fender obliged and the Broadcasters moment came to an end.
This Broadcaster has a proven history and has been very well vetted throughout the years. It was sold decades ago by the Mandolin Brothers (ad photo attached) & it more recently found it's way to our friend, Fender historian & guitar nerd Francisco Balossino. Francisco inspected & authenticated this instrument for a mutual friend and client about 2 years ago. Franciscos team drop filled (as in one drop) of lacquer around the D string tuner opening on the face to stop and preserve some light lacquer flaking that started.
Broadcasters are known for having thick, powerful & rich sonic palates with super sweet & round high end frequencies and this one is no different. The pickups in these guitars are generally hotter and rich sonically. This one reads 6.25 N & 8.13 B. yes with the original windings. Broadcasters are also known to be weighty many surpassing 9 lbs. (weight absolutely has an effect on the tone, my opinion and in my experience only). This example is 8 lbs 5 oz a fantastic weight, if it was a Les Paul you'd be thrilled, lol.
The neck is incredible and measures .86 - 1.01, the frets were done some time back and remain in great condition. The original Broadcaster case, different than later teles is also in VG+ condition and perfect working order.