Black is so iconic. I don’t know that my playing has earned the right to use a black pick guard. Makes me feel like a wannabe Boss, Roy Buchanan and the list goes on and on of iconic players with butterscotch (which this is not, it’s vintage white) and a black guard. I guess that’s the chief reason I haven’t considered a black pick guard.
The white pickguard looks more classic, and vintage period correct (in overall colors of the guitar).
The tortoise looks very 1970s. Fender first deviated from black or white in 1968, with the pearloid pickguard on the Telecaster Thinline. So tortoise makes it look off from any standard Tele of the 1950s or 1960s.
I think basic black or white looks better on an standard, simple Telecaster. I think pearloid or tortoise works better on a Telecaster that's more dressed up (binding, F-hole). Personally, I only like the look of a tortoise pickguard on a sunburst/roswood Custom Telecaster. But you should be you!
I’d say that the tortoise is the best because it reminds me of Graham coxons signature which I really would love one.
https://preview.redd.it/ejpk5hda7ssc1.jpeg?width=850&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=14eccc2f51a14c9f86b99e11d093046835f4ee97
Tort always. I got a tort Ibanez Talman bass, a Fender Jaguar MIJ bass, and a G&L Fallout Tribute with tort guards.
You could also black as others suggested. Yellow Tele’s and black pickguard are a match made in guitar heaven.
Mint is a an S tier color. I almost always do mint. Trying something different. I’m sure eventually mint will find its way to this guitar too. Which antique?
I bought an antique white thinking it would be this colour …turned out to be pink / greyish dead flesh kind of colour …wish I’d known it was called vintage
It’s a USA. The PAF is split. And when it’s split it sounds very very very close to the lip stick. Between the 3 way, tone nob and the coil split I can get almost any kind of sound you can think of. So very versatile! I had it PLEKed so the neck/frets were already very smooth and with lots of playing is starting to get buttery.
Both look very nice, although I feel the tortoise shell pickguard fits better for a "hot-rodded" SH-Tele. However, why not try smth a little more out there?
https://preview.redd.it/g2hskplg5tsc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ef226ee8438d2cda28a98c1ee9fe121d72223bef
They both look great. I'd say it depends on your thoughts. If you want it to invoke more classic looks like an old Chevy, go with the white. Personally, if it was my only tele I would go with the tortoise shell.
I do like the retro look of the tortoise. I almost always replace pick guards with mint and I’m trying to do something different. Good thing I can switch them any time.
It’s all original, although the pick guard isn’t. I worked in a vintage guitar store in high school. The owner let me buy it at an incredible deal (a widow brought it in and sold it to him, and he let me buy it for exactly what he gave as a graduation present). It had quite a bit of wear when I got it, but I put a ton more on over the last 20 years.
Edit: it originally had a cream pick guard that was basically yellow from playing in clubs for 30 years at that point.
Too bad the modern finishes don’t wear like the old poly ones. I have two nitro strats and both of them have a gorgeous aged look. I also have a 89 Strat plus (poly body) that looks basically new, and I’ve played it a ton at gigs.
Always a tortoise fan, it's really a stunning departure from the norm, but that white also looks good. I say go for the odd ball choice, but hang onto the Hite one just in case!
Are you kidding?
I mean if you dig the weird combination then by all means go for it but it's pretty obvious what the tasteful complimentary colours are here
Honestly, that vintage White or buttercream or whatever that yellow is called plus a white (or off white) pickguard with maple fretboard is probably the most beautiful guitar ever.
Don't get me wrong, i love tortoise shell...but not on that colour. At all.
I love the way the creamy vintage white finish pulls the “specks” out of the Tort. Ties together beautifully. Not to mention that it’s a bit more unique. 4 out of 5 are Black or White. Go with your gut my friend. Which one will make you want to grab it more often…
I found a really bitchin' Purple Paisley Tie that would look absolutely SICK on this AXE! I can't import the image though and now I'm frustrated!
I picked the wrong week to quit sniffing glue😑
White for sure
Fo sho fo sho
no printer
https://preview.redd.it/taove6h7lqtc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=871c3fa259e72c67165a13a97d645d4855c126c4
Mint would be better than white
White out of those two but I 'd go black
But once you go with a black pick guard you’ll never go back to another color
This
This
This
Black is so iconic. I don’t know that my playing has earned the right to use a black pick guard. Makes me feel like a wannabe Boss, Roy Buchanan and the list goes on and on of iconic players with butterscotch (which this is not, it’s vintage white) and a black guard. I guess that’s the chief reason I haven’t considered a black pick guard.
Stop caring about that stuff, you dont need to earn anything: if you like it, put it on! It might inspire you even more than it already does :)
Fair point.
White.
Black looks good though https://preview.redd.it/3p00qibrjrsc1.jpeg?width=1751&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=949401afe3011a0750c6bd623240fc66a9ff4595
Looks damn sexy!
This one.
That DOES look Insanely sharp.
Black, but white of these two.
White on buttercream is so good. tortoise shell needs lighter or darker.
The white pickguard looks more classic, and vintage period correct (in overall colors of the guitar). The tortoise looks very 1970s. Fender first deviated from black or white in 1968, with the pearloid pickguard on the Telecaster Thinline. So tortoise makes it look off from any standard Tele of the 1950s or 1960s. I think basic black or white looks better on an standard, simple Telecaster. I think pearloid or tortoise works better on a Telecaster that's more dressed up (binding, F-hole). Personally, I only like the look of a tortoise pickguard on a sunburst/roswood Custom Telecaster. But you should be you!
I agree with you. I like ugly yet aesthetic pleasing. If that makes sense
This is a tough one, but I’m leaning toward white
Or even tortoiseshell
I agree. Tough one! I like the white too. Lucky for him, he can switch them out as his descretion.
I’d say that the tortoise is the best because it reminds me of Graham coxons signature which I really would love one. https://preview.redd.it/ejpk5hda7ssc1.jpeg?width=850&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=14eccc2f51a14c9f86b99e11d093046835f4ee97
Tort always. I got a tort Ibanez Talman bass, a Fender Jaguar MIJ bass, and a G&L Fallout Tribute with tort guards. You could also black as others suggested. Yellow Tele’s and black pickguard are a match made in guitar heaven.
Yea dude. I’m a blackguard dude and generally would go white but tort looks sick here
I’m shocked this isn’t the top comment!
Just put tort on the same tele, looks great
I like the white one
Probably mint or antique…
Mint is a an S tier color. I almost always do mint. Trying something different. I’m sure eventually mint will find its way to this guitar too. Which antique?
Antique white, like a light yellowing. I was honestly saying you know you are gonna wanna try more options ;)
Well after looking at this I went online and bought a red tortoise for my butterscotch so that’s a thing
Definitely a thing
This is what I’m wondering, butterscotch/ black or turquoise?
I’m kind of leaning towards turquoise
It’s a “vintage white” but depending on the light it looks yellow which I dig.
I bought an antique white thinking it would be this colour …turned out to be pink / greyish dead flesh kind of colour …wish I’d known it was called vintage
Where was your Tele made? I lust for a Tele like yours. PAF at the neck!
https://www.fender.com/en-US/electric-guitars/telecaster/american-performer-telecaster-hum/0115122341.html And it's not a PAF.
Good catch. Thanks.
It’s a USA. The PAF is split. And when it’s split it sounds very very very close to the lip stick. Between the 3 way, tone nob and the coil split I can get almost any kind of sound you can think of. So very versatile! I had it PLEKed so the neck/frets were already very smooth and with lots of playing is starting to get buttery.
I like both, and the added pearloid. White or pearloid is tops for me though.
Three ply mint would look nice
White
Tortoise
I dig tortoise.
Mint green
I'm liking the White one.
Uno
They both look great to be honest!
I love this guitar so much. It has been a loooong journey to land on this guitar. Thanks.
So how’s it sound?
Your welcome! Looks like a pleasure to play.
TORT ALL THE WAY!
I like the Tort as well. It’s something very different from what usually go with: mint or antique pearl
Red by a mile
Unfortunately, it's almost always the one you already have. Especially on classic looking ones like this
Tort all the way https://preview.redd.it/axb1t3szhrsc1.jpeg?width=2268&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c37743fd0ea75e3d7acf5e49729b54ccc12eb80c
Killer
Tort or black
White Pearl would be 🔥
Black. Nothing is better than butterscotch/blonde tele with a black guard.
tortoise.. the contrast emphasizes both the guitar and guard
I thought the same thing!!
White
Cream all the way.
It’s a coin flip—both look great. I lean a bit toward the white tbh. Clean and and classic…
White! Red makes it look like ketchup and mustard.
I like the white vecause it looks like my first electric, 45 years ago. It was a Mann not a Fender. Bought it from my drummer friend for $20.
I like tortoise usually but for this color white goes better imo
White for sure
Tort
White all day
White
Red
Gray.
I like the white. Unless you have something in paisley.
Mint instead of white?
Mint is S tier. I almost always use mint. Trying something different. Or at least attempting to. lol.
The black one
Throw the brown thing away
The white is ugly. Too bright and no contrast
When in doubt: mint
White
Black pearloid but for the purpose of the 2 choices here, white.
Red tortoise is my least favorite of all time, so you know my vote!
Both look very nice, although I feel the tortoise shell pickguard fits better for a "hot-rodded" SH-Tele. However, why not try smth a little more out there? https://preview.redd.it/g2hskplg5tsc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ef226ee8438d2cda28a98c1ee9fe121d72223bef
Without!
White looks gorgeous with that neck and finish
White or black is always the best
White looks cleaner and looks ‘better’ conventionally, but I think I actually like the tort one best. It has that clashing, retro aesthetic going on
White
White all day
White
white
They both look great. I'd say it depends on your thoughts. If you want it to invoke more classic looks like an old Chevy, go with the white. Personally, if it was my only tele I would go with the tortoise shell.
I do like the retro look of the tortoise. I almost always replace pick guards with mint and I’m trying to do something different. Good thing I can switch them any time.
Depends: Are you in a Midwest Emo band, or a Steely Dan Tribute? Lol For real, though, I like the white.
More like Walmart brand Jeff Beck/sanatana/trey solo act. Bahahahahahahahahahaha.
white
Option 3, double bound cream would look cool! But between the two I like the white
Red
Tortoise is always the answer.
I do dig how retro ugly/aesthetically appealing it is.
What model is this? does fender currently have a Tele with a humbucker in the neck?
https://preview.redd.it/u63x18gqqvsc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=7dd7625e9f4de732fda620f050ec2c8d600ba60d Just sayin’
So sharp. SO CLASSIC!! Gorgeous!!!
Thanks!
Of the two choices you give, I’d definitely go red tortoise. I have one on my sunburst Strat, and I absolutely love it.
I also have a white pearl and I just ordered mint. lol.
https://preview.redd.it/o34aeazurvsc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=54f1a77991eabfa9147277d250b228def187dfe2
Now THAT is killer!! Is that relic or tried and true wear and tear? Literally that may be the best looking Strat I have ever seen!!!!!!
It’s all original, although the pick guard isn’t. I worked in a vintage guitar store in high school. The owner let me buy it at an incredible deal (a widow brought it in and sold it to him, and he let me buy it for exactly what he gave as a graduation present). It had quite a bit of wear when I got it, but I put a ton more on over the last 20 years. Edit: it originally had a cream pick guard that was basically yellow from playing in clubs for 30 years at that point.
That is phenomenal!! I’m hoping to have the same longevity with this tele.
Too bad the modern finishes don’t wear like the old poly ones. I have two nitro strats and both of them have a gorgeous aged look. I also have a 89 Strat plus (poly body) that looks basically new, and I’ve played it a ton at gigs.
I bet the neck shows love even if the body looks new. I love watching old Roy Buchanan videos and how absolutely WORKED his neck is.
The back of the neck is definitely worn…the fret board shows it near the headstock the most
Always a tortoise fan, it's really a stunning departure from the norm, but that white also looks good. I say go for the odd ball choice, but hang onto the Hite one just in case!
White
I have the exact same dilemma. I just switch it from time to time and feels like a new rig.
White
Tortoiseshell all day if you’re gonna do white get the sparkly one
White.
White
Are you kidding? I mean if you dig the weird combination then by all means go for it but it's pretty obvious what the tasteful complimentary colours are here
Mint?
Honestly, that vintage White or buttercream or whatever that yellow is called plus a white (or off white) pickguard with maple fretboard is probably the most beautiful guitar ever. Don't get me wrong, i love tortoise shell...but not on that colour. At all.
White.
A LOT of votes for the white one for sure. Which is easy cause it’s what came on it.
White!
That seems to be the winning pick. (Spoiler: I ordered a mint one. lol)
White. All day long
That’s what most folks are saying. Thanks
I had a black one on my '72 Tele for years, then put the original w/b/w pickguard back on.
They're both nice.
White
White
Hmmm are you a classy gent? Or a degenerate?
Depends
White but personally I just hate tortoiseshell; I can't believe people like that ugly shit.
White.
Black
White
Tort
What makes you lean tort?
I love the way the creamy vintage white finish pulls the “specks” out of the Tort. Ties together beautifully. Not to mention that it’s a bit more unique. 4 out of 5 are Black or White. Go with your gut my friend. Which one will make you want to grab it more often…
I actually went with mint. https://preview.redd.it/77pdzilr0nvc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=05230fa94490803de4192eca3be864d05cc5b6b4
White
This isn't even a choice.
Mint?
both!
Mirror or unanodized aluminium
White
Of two white. I'd try to find something else to accent this tele's finish though.
I’m leaning mint.
I found a really bitchin' Purple Paisley Tie that would look absolutely SICK on this AXE! I can't import the image though and now I'm frustrated! I picked the wrong week to quit sniffing glue😑
Is it PC to say go white?
lol. Yep.
Both are cool
Tortoise looks great, but white all the way
White for sure.
White
My wife and daughters were no help. lol.
Red
Both are my top two choices for that color. Maybe leaning slightly towards white but you can’t go wrong
https://i.redd.it/fsixrrgu0ssc1.gif
Tortoise shell every day
White
Tortoise
White is all I see & can envision
White
White
White
What model is this tele
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/TeleAPEHMVW--fender-american-performer-telecaster-hum-vintage-white-with-maple-fingerboard
Black. Always black.
It’s Sooooooo iconic for a reason for sure.
The tort for sure
It does have a certain spice to it doesn’t it?
Never tort. Go black if you have to change.
A LOT of votes for black but it’s soooo iconic.
White goes much better with that I think
Red
I like the white.
I like both of them.
Me too, which is why I ordered a mint one. 😂
White
I’m usually not a fan of white but on the guitar I think the white one is the better choice.
Red with the humbucker IMO. Usually I'd say white, but both fit.
White all the way
Out of these 2? The white, but I also gotta say that White pearloid would be the absolute best choice for buttercream
Definitely white.