Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster: A Legendary Guitar Reborn
The Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster is a recreation of one of the most iconic guitars in rock history. This legendary instrument was originally owned by Jeff Beck before being gifted to Jimmy Page, who used it to create some of Led Zeppelin’s most revered riffs and solos. The Mirror Telecaster has since become synonymous with Page’s distinctive sound and style. Now, the team at Fender has meticulously recreated this guitar, giving players a chance to own a piece of rock history.
Design and Construction
The Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster boasts a visually striking design that is instantly recognizable. The body is made from two-piece ash, with a white blonde finish that allows the wood grain to show through. The guitar’s slim “Oval C”-shaped maple neck features a rosewood fingerboard with 21 vintage-style frets and authentic clay dot inlays. The headstock is adorned with the classic Fender logo and Jimmy Page’s signature, adding a touch of personal flair.
One of the most eye-catching features of this guitar is its mirror adornment. The original Telecaster had eight circular mirrors glued to the body, which Page would later remove, leaving only the residue behind. The Fender Custom Shop has recreated this unique look by providing a set of eight removable mirrors that can be attached to the body using double-sided adhesive.
Electronics and Hardware
The Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster is equipped with a pair of custom Jimmy Page Telecaster single-coil pickups. These hand-wound pickups have been designed to replicate the bright, cutting tone that defined Page’s early work with Led Zeppelin. The guitar also features a three-position pickup selector switch, master volume, and master tone controls, providing a wide range of tonal options.
The hardware on this guitar is a testament to Fender’s attention to detail. The vintage-style bridge features three threaded steel saddles, which contribute to the guitar’s characteristic twang. The chrome hardware, including the tuning machines, control plate, and neck plate, is all period-correct, adding to the guitar’s authenticity.
Playability
The Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster feels as good as it looks. The slim “Oval C”-shaped neck profile offers a comfortable grip, while the 7.25-inch radius fingerboard provides a vintage feel that is well-suited for chord work and lead playing alike. The vintage-style frets are narrow and tall, making them ideal for string bending and achieving those classic Page-esque tones.
The guitar’s setup and intonation are excellent right out of the box, requiring minimal adjustment, if any, to suit a player’s preferences. The lightweight ash body and ergonomic design make the Mirror Telecaster a pleasure to play for extended periods, whether standing or sitting.
Sound and Versatility
The Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster delivers a wide range of tones that are perfect for rock, blues, and beyond. The custom pickups provide a bright, cutting sound that cuts through the mix with ease, while the three-way pickup selector switch allows players to dial in the perfect balance of warmth and bite.
With the neck pickup selected, the guitar produces a warm, smooth tone that is ideal for rhythm playing and bluesy lead lines. The middle position, which combines both pickups, offers a balanced sound with added depth and clarity. Finally, the bridge pickup delivers the quintessential Telecaster twang, providing the biting, aggressive sound that defined Led Zeppelin’s early albums.
The master volume and tone controls offer further tonal shaping, allowing players to darken or brighten their sound as needed. This versatility makes the Mirror Telecaster a suitable choice for a variety of genres and playing styles.
Conclusion
The Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster is not only a stunning tribute to a legendary guitarist and his iconic instrument, but it also stands on its own as a high-quality, versatile guitar. With its meticulous attention to detail, authentic design, and excellent playability, this guitar is sure to impress both fans of Page and those who simply appreciate a superbly crafted instrument.
Whether you’re a die-hard Led Zeppelin fan or a guitarist seeking a unique and versatile instrument, the Fender Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster is a worthy addition to any collection. While its price tag may be steep for some, the opportunity to own a piece of rock history and experience the unmistakable tone and feel of this legendary guitar is truly priceless.
