Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster®, Laurel Fingerboard, 3-Color Sunburst

Quick Product Summary

The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster in 3-Color Sunburst combines classic Telecaster simplicity with the more refined appearance of Fender's double-bound Custom Tele designs.

Its nyatoh body features cream binding around the front and back, while a maple neck, Indian laurel fingerboard and vintage-tinted gloss finish give the guitar a distinctly early-'60s-inspired look. Underneath the vintage styling, a comfortable 9.5-inch fingerboard radius and narrow-tall frets make it an approachable instrument for modern players.

A pair of Fender-Designed alnico single-coil pickups delivers the clear, responsive character players expect from a traditional Telecaster, with straightforward three-way switching, master volume and master tone controls. Add the vintage-style three-saddle string-through-body bridge and you have a versatile electric guitar suited to everything from clean rhythm work and country picking to blues, indie, rock and alternative styles.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Squier
Series	Classic Vibe
Model	'60s Custom Telecaster
Finish	3-Color Sunburst
Body	Nyatoh with cream binding
Fingerboard	Indian Laurel
Pickups	2 x Fender-Designed Alnico Single-Coil
Scale Length	25.5" / 648 mm
Condition	New
Main Appeal	Classic double-bound Telecaster styling with traditional single-coil electronics
Best For	Rock, blues, country, indie, pop, alternative and general-purpose electric guitar playing

What's Included?

• Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster®, Laurel Fingerboard, 3-Color Sunburst

• Factory-fitted Nickel Plated Steel .009–.042 strings

• ✘ Case not included

• ✘ Gig bag not included

• ✘ No additional accessories included

Fair Deal Quality Control Assessment

Every new electric guitar is checked before leaving Fair Deal Music so that the instrument is ready for its new owner.

For electric guitars such as the Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster, our checks cover the main playing and functional areas of the instrument, including electronics, controls, hardware, tuning operation and general playability.

Service / Setup Work

The guitar is checked and set up before leaving the shop.

As with any wooden instrument, setup can move slightly during transport because changes in temperature and humidity can affect neck relief, string height and tuning stability. Minor adjustment after delivery can therefore occasionally be beneficial depending on personal playing preference and the environment in which the guitar is kept.

Why Choose The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster?

Double-Bound Custom Telecaster Styling

Cream binding around the front and back edges of the body gives this model a more distinctive appearance than a standard Telecaster. Combined with the 3-Color Sunburst finish and parchment pickguard, it captures the visual character associated with early Custom Tele designs.

Fender-Designed Alnico Single-Coil Pickups

The two Fender-Designed alnico pickups preserve the straightforward two-pickup Telecaster formula. The bridge position provides clear attack and definition, the neck offers a smoother response, and the middle setting combines both pickups for balanced rhythm and clean work.

Vintage Character Without An Extremely Vintage Fingerboard

While the styling is strongly influenced by the 1960s, the 9.5-inch fingerboard radius is more forgiving than the rounder 7.25-inch radius found on many strict vintage recreations. Narrow-tall frets also provide a useful balance between period-inspired appearance and everyday playability.

Three-Saddle String-Through-Body Bridge

The vintage-style three-saddle bridge uses chrome barrel saddles and a string-through-body design. It maintains the traditional Telecaster layout and keeps the guitar visually and mechanically close to the instrument that inspired it.

Comparison Against Popular Alternatives

Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster vs Classic Vibe '50s Telecaster

Both guitars use Fender-Designed alnico single-coil pickups, vintage-style three-saddle bridges and 25.5-inch scale lengths, but the visual character is very different. The '50s model uses a maple fingerboard and more stripped-back early-Tele styling, while the '60s Custom combines an Indian laurel board with distinctive cream body binding. Choose the '50s model for the classic blackguard-inspired aesthetic; choose the '60s Custom if you prefer a darker fingerboard and the more dressed-up double-bound appearance.

Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster vs Affinity Series Telecaster

The Affinity Telecaster is the more accessible entry point and uses ceramic single-coil pickups, a six-saddle bridge and sealed die-cast tuners. The Classic Vibe '60s Custom steps towards a more vintage-inspired specification with Fender-Designed alnico pickups, a three-saddle bridge, vintage-style tuners, bone nut and double-bound body. The Affinity is a strong first Telecaster; the Classic Vibe is better suited to players specifically looking for traditional styling and appointments.

Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster vs Fender Vintera III Early '60s Custom Telecaster

The Fender Vintera III moves much further towards period-correct construction, including an alder body, rosewood fingerboard, 7.25-inch radius, Vintage-Style 1963 Telecaster pickups and vintage-style threaded steel bridge saddles. The Squier provides the essential visual identity and traditional dual-single-coil layout at a much more accessible level, while the Vintera is aimed at players willing to pay more for a closer Fender recreation of an early-'60s instrument.

Who Is The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster For?

This model is a particularly strong choice for:

• Players buying their first serious Telecaster-style electric guitar

• Intermediate guitarists upgrading from an entry-level instrument

• Telecaster fans who prefer a bound body and darker fingerboard

• Guitarists wanting traditional single-coil sounds without a premium Fender price point

• Recording musicians who need a simple, versatile electric guitar

• Players covering multiple styles who value straightforward controls

• Experienced guitarists looking for an affordable second Telecaster or gigging instrument

Its uncomplicated electronics also make it particularly easy to work with on stage and in the studio.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Telecaster design has always been unusually versatile, and the Classic Vibe '60s Custom is well suited to country, blues, rock, indie, alternative, pop, soul, funk and roots music.

The bridge pickup works particularly well when attack and articulation matter, whether that means picked country lines, driven rock rhythm parts or tight indie guitar. Switching to the neck pickup gives you a smoother option for blues, cleaner rhythm work and more rounded lead tones.

Using both pickups together provides another useful clean and rhythm sound, making the guitar straightforward to fit into a full band arrangement without complicated switching or onboard electronics.

What Makes A Custom Telecaster Different From A Standard Telecaster?

On this particular Classic Vibe model, the word “Custom” primarily refers to its historical double-bound body design, rather than a completely different pickup or control configuration.

That distinction matters because the name Telecaster Custom was later used for a very different Fender design featuring a humbucking neck pickup and additional controls. The Classic Vibe '60s Custom instead takes its inspiration from the earlier late-'50s and 1960s bound-body Telecasters, retaining the traditional two-single-coil electronics and familiar Telecaster control plate.

Looking for advice on choosing between a standard Telecaster, Custom Telecaster, Thinline or humbucker-equipped Tele? Our experienced team of musicians at Fair Deal Music can help by phone, online or in-store.

Compatibility & Practical Buying Advice

The Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster uses a standard 1/4-inch instrument output, so it works with conventional guitar amplifiers, audio interfaces, pedalboards and wireless guitar systems.

Its traditional single-coil pickups respond particularly well to effects such as overdrive, boost, compression, delay, reverb, tremolo and modulation. A clean amplifier will highlight the guitar's clarity and pickup differences, while valve-style overdrive can bring out a more aggressive rock and blues character.

Standard Telecaster accessories are often a useful starting point when choosing straps, stands and related equipment, but dimensions should always be checked before purchasing cases or fitted accessories. Fender recommends dedicated Stratocaster/Telecaster-sized hard case and electric guitar gig bag options for this model.

Story & Context

The Custom Telecaster first appeared in 1959, giving Fender's established Telecaster design a more upmarket visual treatment. Its most recognisable feature was body binding, accompanied on the original version by a rosewood fingerboard – both significant departures from the familiar early Telecaster formula.

That original Custom Telecaster remained fundamentally close to a conventional Telecaster rather than becoming a completely different instrument. This is the heritage that the Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster references with its double-bound body, dark fingerboard and traditional twin-single-coil electronics.

The name can occasionally cause confusion because Fender introduced another Telecaster Custom design in the early 1970s featuring a Wide Range humbucking neck pickup and expanded control layout. The Classic Vibe model here is inspired by the earlier bound-body Custom Telecaster, not the later humbucker-equipped version.

That history gives the Squier a particularly attractive position in the range: visually more ornate than a standard Telecaster while retaining the simple electronics and playing approach that made the original design so enduring.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Brand	Squier
Series	Classic Vibe
Model	'60s Custom Telecaster
Model Number	0374040500
Orientation	Right-Handed
Colour	3-Color Sunburst
Body Shape	Telecaster
Body Material	Nyatoh
Body Finish	Gloss Polyurethane
Body Binding	Cream
Neck Material	Maple
Neck Construction	Bolt-On
Neck Shape	C Shape
Neck Finish	Tinted Gloss Urethane
Fingerboard Material	Indian Laurel
Fingerboard Radius	9.5" / 241 mm
Position Inlays	White Dot
Number of Frets	21
Fret Size	Narrow Tall
Scale Length	25.5" / 648 mm
Nut Material	Bone
Nut Width	1.650" / 42 mm
Bridge Pickup	Fender-Designed Alnico Single-Coil
Neck Pickup	Fender-Designed Alnico Single-Coil
Pickup Configuration	SS
Controls	Master Volume, Master Tone
Switching	3-Position Blade
Position 1	Bridge Pickup
Position 2	Bridge and Neck Pickups
Position 3	Neck Pickup
Bridge	3-Saddle Vintage-Style Strings-Through-Body Tele with Chrome Barrel Saddles
Tuning Machines	Vintage-Style
Hardware Finish	Nickel
Pickguard	3-Ply Parchment
Control Knobs	Knurled Flat-Top
Neck Plate	4-Bolt Squier
Strings	Nickel Plated Steel .009–.042
Truss Rod	Head Adjust

Power Requirements

The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster uses passive electronics, so no battery or external power supply is required.

Simply connect the guitar to your amplifier, effects setup or audio interface using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster is a strong option for players who want traditional Telecaster sounds with a more distinctive vintage-inspired appearance. The double-bound 3-Color Sunburst body is the obvious visual highlight, but the combination of alnico pickups, bone nut, three-saddle bridge and comfortable 9.5-inch fingerboard radius makes it more than just a cosmetic variation.

Best suited for: Players wanting traditional Telecaster character, versatile single-coil tones and classic 1960s-inspired styling.

Customers usually upgrade from: Squier Sonic, Debut and Affinity guitars or other entry-level electric guitars.

Most commonly paired with: A clean or low-gain guitar amplifier, overdrive, compressor, delay and reverb pedals.

Our tip: Don't overlook the middle pickup position. Combining the bridge and neck pickups produces a balanced clean sound that works particularly well for rhythm guitar, funkier playing and layered studio parts.

Showroom feedback: The double binding gives this model a noticeably more premium appearance than a conventional Telecaster, while the familiar 9.5-inch radius keeps the playing feel accessible for guitarists who do not specifically want a strict vintage-spec neck.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

From our Birmingham showroom, our knowledgeable musician-led team helps players choose the right guitars and equipment every day. Whether you're buying your first Telecaster, upgrading an existing instrument or adding another sound to your collection, we're here to offer straightforward advice based on the way you actually play.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment

• Competitive prices on leading music brands

• Secure UK-wide ordering and delivery

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• A large Birmingham music showroom

• Decades of experience with both new and pre-owned musical equipment

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Custom” mean on the Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster?

On this model, Custom refers primarily to the vintage-inspired double-bound body design associated with the original Custom Telecaster. It should not be confused with the later 1970s-style Telecaster Custom featuring a humbucking neck pickup.

Are the pickups suitable for both clean and overdriven sounds?

Yes. The traditional twin-single-coil layout works particularly well for clear clean sounds, edge-of-breakup tones and classic overdrive. The three pickup selections also make it easy to change character without adjusting your amplifier.

Is the 9.5-inch fingerboard radius suitable for lead playing?

Yes. The 9.5-inch radius is widely used because it provides a comfortable compromise between traditional curved Fender fingerboards and flatter modern designs, making it suitable for both chord work and lead playing.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes. The controls are straightforward, the C-shaped neck is approachable and there are no complicated switching systems to learn. It is particularly attractive for a beginner who wants an instrument they can continue using well beyond the early stages of learning.

Is this a good guitar for recording?

Yes. Telecaster-style single-coil sounds are useful in recording because their clear attack can help guitar parts remain defined in a busy arrangement. The three pickup settings also provide noticeably different starting points for layering tracks.

Can I change the string gauge?

Yes. Different gauges can be fitted to suit playing preference. Moving significantly heavier or lighter than the factory .009–.042 set may require adjustments to the setup, particularly neck relief, action and intonation.

What amplifier works well with a Classic Vibe Telecaster?

It pairs well with a wide range of guitar amplifiers. Clean and vintage-style amps highlight the guitar's articulation, while higher-gain amplifiers can push it into rock and alternative territory. The best choice depends more on the sound you want than on a specific amplifier type.

Why choose this over a standard Squier Telecaster?

Choose the Classic Vibe '60s Custom if the double-bound Sunburst styling, vintage-inspired hardware, alnico pickups and Classic Vibe appointments appeal to you. A simpler Squier Telecaster may be more appropriate if your priority is keeping the purchase price as low as possible.

The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster in 3-Color Sunburst is an excellent choice for players who love the simplicity and versatility of a traditional Tele but want something visually more distinctive. From its double-bound body and dark laurel fingerboard to its straightforward alnico pickup configuration, it captures an important chapter of Telecaster design while remaining practical enough for everyday playing, recording and gigging.