Tokai TE-50 from 1983 in Candy Apple Red, (Used)

The Tokai TE-50 from 1983 in Candy Apple Red is a beautiful representation of the exceptional craftsmanship that made Japanese guitars from this era so highly respected. Modelled closely after vintage '50s Telecasters, the TE-50 features an ash body that provides a bright, resonant tone with excellent sustain and punch. The Candy Apple Red finish adds a vibrant, classic flair, subtly ageing over time to give it even more character and charm.

The maple neck with a traditional single-piece maple fingerboard offers a comfortable, slightly chunky feel that plays fast and smooth, perfect for twangy country licks, biting blues, or cutting rock rhythms. Tokai’s attention to detail in this period means high-quality hardware, solid build consistency, and vintage-style single-coil pickups that deliver the unmistakable clarity, snap, and grit that Tele enthusiasts crave. The electronics layout remains traditional and intuitive, letting players easily shift from warm neck tones to sharp, spanky bridge sounds.

Made during what many consider Tokai’s golden era, the 1983 TE-50 stands out as a serious instrument for both collectors and working musicians. Its combination of vintage tone, build quality, and stunning aesthetics make it a compelling alternative to its American counterparts, offering the soul and spirit of an early Telecaster with the craftsmanship precision that put Made in Japan guitars on the map.