DATE :
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
1967 Fender Telecaster with Factory Bigsby: The Rarity That Bridged Two Eras
1967 Fender Telecaster with Factory Bigsby: The Pre-CBS Rarity That Bridged Two Eras
The 1967 Fender Telecaster with factory-installed Bigsby vibrato represents one of the most intriguing and collectible variants in Telecaster history. These instruments were produced during Fender's final pre-CBS year, combining Leo Fender's original design philosophy with the tremolo system that would become synonymous with country and rockabilly music. With only a small number produced before CBS discontinued the option, these guitars have become highly sought-after by collectors who appreciate both their rarity and their unique place in Fender's timeline.
What makes the 1967 factory Bigsby Telecaster special is its position as both an end and a beginning—the final expression of pre-CBS Telecaster craftsmanship combined with a feature that pointed toward Fender's willingness to experiment with tremolo systems beyond the traditional Stratocaster vibrato.
Historical Context: The Final Pre-CBS Year
The year 1967 marked the end of an era for Fender Musical Instruments. Leo Fender had sold the company to CBS in January 1965, but 1967 represented the last year before significant changes to manufacturing processes and quality control became apparent to players and collectors. During this transitional period, Fender was still producing instruments using many of the materials, techniques, and attention to detail that had made the brand legendary.
The factory Bigsby option for Telecasters was introduced as a custom shop feature in the mid-1960s, appealing to country and western swing players who wanted the expressiveness of a vibrato system but preferred the fundamental Telecaster tone over the Stratocaster. Notable artists like Don Rich of Buck Owens' Buckaroos were already retrofitting Telecasters with Bigsby units, creating demand for a factory solution.
The 1967 model year was significant because it maintained the traditional Telecaster construction methods—including the four-bolt neck attachment, vintage-style electronics, and nitrocellulose finishes—while offering this specialized tremolo option. CBS would soon implement cost-cutting measures and design changes that many players felt compromised the instrument's quality and tone.
Detailed Identification Guide
Authenticating a genuine 1967 factory Bigsby Telecaster requires careful examination of multiple identifying features, as aftermarket Bigsby installations are common and can affect value significantly.
Serial Numbers
1967 Telecasters feature serial numbers in the 200000-210000 range, stamped on the metal neck plate. However, factory Bigsby models often have additional markings that help verify authenticity.
Neck Dating
The pencil-written neck date appears on the heel of the neck, typically marked as "JAN 67" through "DEC 67" indicating the month and year of neck completion. Cross-referencing this date with the body date (found in the neck pocket) helps verify the instrument's authenticity.
Factory Bigsby Installation Markers
Critical Authentication Points:
Body Routing: Factory installations show precise, clean routing for the Bigsby mounting posts with no tool marks or rough edges
String Retainer: Factory models include a chrome string retainer mounted behind the nut
Bridge Modification: The bridge plate is properly notched to accommodate the Bigsby's increased string angle
Serial Number Matching: The Bigsby vibrato unit should have a serial number that corresponds to Fender's internal documentation
Hardware Specifications
Bigsby B5 Vibrato: Chrome-plated with "Bigsby" logo and proper mounting hardware
Modified Bridge: Standard Telecaster bridge with filed saddle slots for proper intonation
Tuners: Standard Fender single-line Kluson tuners (pre-CBS style)
Control Plate: Chrome-plated with volume and tone controls
Jack Plate: Standard chrome output jack plate
Wood and Construction Details
Body: Ash (blonde finish) or alder (sunburst/colors), showing proper grain patterns
Neck: Maple with rosewood fretboard, displaying the characteristic 1967 profile
Finish: Nitrocellulose lacquer showing appropriate aging patterns
Weight: Typically 7.5-8.5 lbs, accounting for the additional Bigsby hardware
Detailed Physical Specifications
The 1967 factory Bigsby Telecaster maintained most standard Telecaster specifications while accommodating the tremolo system's requirements.
Dimensions and Profile:
Scale Length: 25.5 inches
Nut Width: 1-5/8 inches (1.625")
Neck Profile: Early '67 models retained fuller "C" shape, later '67 slightly slimmer
Fretboard Radius: 7.25 inches
Fret Size: Vintage narrow frets (.080" x .040")
Overall Weight: 7.5-8.5 lbs (Bigsby adds approximately 8-10 oz)
Electronics:
Pickups: Standard Telecaster single-coils with black fiber bobbins
Pickup Resistance: Bridge ~7.2k ohms, Neck ~6.8k ohms
Wiring: Vintage cloth-covered wire with .047µF capacitor
Switch: 3-position lever switch (standard Telecaster positions)
Potentiometers: 250k CTS or Stackpole pots with date codes
Hardware:
Bridge: Chrome-plated with brass saddles, modified for Bigsby clearance
Tuners: Kluson single-line tuners with plastic buttons
Strap Buttons: Chrome-plated, vintage-style
Pickguard: Single-ply white or black phenolic
Tonal Characteristics
The factory Bigsby Telecaster offers a unique sonic palette that combines classic Telecaster clarity with the expressive capabilities of a vibrato system. The tonal characteristics differ subtly but meaningfully from standard fixed-bridge Telecasters.
Sound Profile:
Sustain: The Bigsby's mass adds sustain and resonance to the instrument
Attack: Slightly softened attack compared to fixed-bridge models, with more complex harmonics
Tremolo Effect: Smooth, musical vibrato range without the aggressive dive-bomb capabilities of a Stratocaster tremolo
String Resonance: The increased break angle over the bridge creates additional harmonic content
Tuning Stability: When properly set up, excellent tuning stability despite vibrato use
The combination of traditional Telecaster electronics with the Bigsby system creates an instrument particularly well-suited to country, rockabilly, and early rock music styles. The vibrato adds expressiveness to chord work and lead lines while maintaining the fundamental Telecaster character that players love.
Notable Recordings: While specific documented recordings featuring 1967 factory Bigsby Telecasters are rare due to their limited production, the sound was influential in developing the "Nashville sound" and country rock genres of the late 1960s.
Common Issues & Modifications
When evaluating a potential 1967 factory Bigsby Telecaster, several condition factors require careful inspection:
Authentication Concerns:
Aftermarket Conversions: Many standard 1967 Telecasters have had Bigsby units added later—look for routing inconsistencies and non-factory mounting methods
Replaced Bigsby Units: Original B5 units should show appropriate wear patterns and correct chrome plating
Bridge Modifications: Factory bridges were properly modified; aftermarket work often shows file marks or improper saddle heights
Typical Problems:
String Binding: The string retainer can cause tuning issues if not properly maintained
Intonation Challenges: The bridge saddles require precise adjustment for proper intonation with the Bigsby
Wear Patterns: Check for excessive wear on the Bigsby arm pivot point and string contact areas
Electronics Issues: Standard vintage Telecaster electronics problems (scratchy pots, worn switch contacts)
Value-Affecting Modifications:
Fret Replacement: Many vintage instruments require refrets—period-correct narrow frets maintain value
Nut Replacement: Bone or Tusq replacements are acceptable if properly fitted
Electronics Upgrades: Any wiring changes should be documented and reversible
Refinishing: Any finish work dramatically reduces value—original nitro finish is crucial
Why Players and Collectors Value This Model
The 1967 factory Bigsby Telecaster occupies a unique position in guitar history, appealing to both players and collectors for different but complementary reasons.
Playing Characteristics:
Versatility: Combines Telecaster clarity with vibrato expressiveness
Comfort: The Bigsby arm positioning works naturally with Telecaster body ergonomics
Reliability: Factory installation ensures proper geometry and function
Unique Voice: Offers tonal possibilities unavailable in standard Telecasters
Collector Appeal:
Extreme Rarity: Less than 1% of 1967 Telecaster production included factory Bigsby
Pre-CBS Pedigree: Represents the final year of "vintage" Fender construction
Historical Significance: Documents Fender's experimentation with tremolo systems beyond the Stratocaster
Investment Potential: Rarity combined with pre-CBS status creates strong long-term appreciation
Cultural Impact: These instruments represent a bridge between traditional country music and the emerging country rock genre of the late 1960s and early 1970s. They offered players the expressiveness they wanted while maintaining the fundamental Telecaster sound that defined country music.
Selling Your 1967 Factory Bigsby Telecaster
If you're fortunate enough to own one of these exceptional instruments, Edgewater Guitars offers specialized services for high-value vintage guitars:
Premium Valuation Services:
Expert Authentication: Our team includes specialists in pre-CBS Fender instruments
Detailed Documentation: Professional photography and condition reports for insurance or resale
Market Analysis: Current valuation based on recent sales of comparable instruments
Competitive Offers: We typically pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops for rare instruments
Specialized Handling:
White-Glove Service: On-site evaluation for high-value instruments
Secure Transactions: Professional handling with full insurance coverage
Immediate Payment: Cash offers with no waiting periods or consignment fees
Discretion: Confidential transactions for high-profile collectors
The rarity and value of factory Bigsby Telecasters require specialized knowledge for proper evaluation. Many guitar shops lack the expertise to properly assess these instruments, potentially costing sellers thousands of dollars.
Ready to discuss your vintage Telecaster? Contact Edgewater Guitars at (440) 219-3607 for your free, expert evaluation.
Related Resources
Essential Reference Materials:
Additional Reading:
Conclusion
The 1967 Fender Telecaster with factory Bigsby represents a fascinating convergence of rarity, craftsmanship, and musical history. As one of the final expressions of pre-CBS Telecaster production, these instruments offer collectors and players something truly special—a piece of Fender history that bridges the gap between traditional and progressive approaches to guitar design.
Whether you're researching an inherited instrument or considering adding one of these rarities to your collection, understanding their unique characteristics and market position is crucial. The combination of extreme rarity, pre-CBS pedigree, and distinctive tonal qualities ensures these instruments will remain highly sought-after for generations to come.
Edgewater Guitars specializes in the purchase and authentication of rare vintage Fender instruments throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. Our expertise in pre-CBS Telecasters and rare factory options ensures you receive accurate valuations and fair market prices.
Contact us today for your free consultation: (440) 219-3607, or visit our showroom to discuss your vintage Telecaster collection.
Article authored by the vintage guitar specialists at Edgewater Guitars. Our team combines decades of experience in vintage Fender authentication with a deep passion for preserving guitar history. We maintain one of the Midwest's most comprehensive databases of rare Fender specifications and sales data.
