Description
Here we have an original early 50's black pickguard for a Fender Telecaster. This is the guitar part that affectionately gave the early Broadcasters, Nocasters, Esquires, and Telecasters the nickname "Blackguard". This guard came off of a late '50s vintage Telecaster. Clearly it was the wrong part for the guitar, but it was obvious this guard was paired with that Tele for decades.
It has been lacquered over by hand apparently as there are dried clear coat drips on the back side. The front of the guard shows some orange peel, but it has mostly worn through again from years of use. It appears the relacquer was simply applied atop the original, most likely in an effort to hide previous wear.
The edge of the guard that would face the bridge appears subtly layered, and remnants of reddish compound remain. The corners of the guard are quite worn and softened from years of play. The front shows a 'notch' from someone adjusting a truss rod, and there is a corresponding stress crack to the lamination on the back side. The guard seems quite stable in this area though. On the back written in pencil appears to be names Brad Bahr and John T. There is also the date Nov 76 written.
Overall we'd have to say this guard is in good functioning condition just due to the rarity of the part. The finish may be considered fair to good with the lacquer work and subsequent wear.
