Alternative budget-friendly option: take a look at Thomann's Harley Benton Strat/Tele knock-offs. I took a punt on the TE-62 Tele for £130 a year ago (there are even cheaper options on there now, including 25th Anniversary specials) and am really happy with it. Incredibly well made and when you add the caveat 'for the money' it's even better. It's currently the guitar I pick up the most.
I know that’s the logical and correct answer to my question but it’s never going to happen. Weird headstocks on familiar guitars boils my piss. I’d rather spend twice as much for ‘the perception of heritage and brand identity’ if you will, as daft as that might sound..
Alternative budget-friendly option: take a look at Thomann's Harley Benton Strat/Tele knock-offs. I took a punt on the TE-62 Tele for £130 a year ago (there are even cheaper options on there now, including 25th Anniversary specials) and am really happy with it. Incredibly well made and when you add the caveat 'for the money' it's even better. It's currently the guitar I pick up the most.