I guess I could safely call myself Chuck's biggest fan - I own all of his models and he's making a second Blues Queen for me right now. I got my Classic about 2 months ago [#001] and I echo everything you have said about it. This is one workhorse of a guitar, and it goes well beyond all the Teles and Tele-copys I've owned since 1963. Mine is identical to yours except I don't have a middle pickup. Oh, and mine weighs 6# 8oz.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v3...s/IMG_0320.jpg
Neck: could not feel better - definitely a "C" shape with something between a G&L and Fender Tele feel to it, and definitely vintage-like feel. I also like the board radius for bends. I chose the larger [6105] frets like he does on his archtops, and I'm pleased with that choice. This is a very resonant guitar and I think these frets add to that. I have the same neck on my Fusion, and it has the smaller frets and isn't quite as resonant. Not only does this thing stay in tune, the intonation is scary perfect up and down. Chuck works with each neck until it is perfect - he will not leave that guitar until it's right. And the bolt-on process [like the Fusion model] makes this whole guitar work flawlessly together and sing like you've never heard one sing. It takes only about 2 seconds to KNOW you're holding a masterpiece in your grip.
Body: only a first glace reminds of a Tele. A second glance will notice quite a few differences, many of which are Chuck's patented designs. The body contour and matte finish are only the beginning of setting it apart from others you've known and loved. The raised areas and control placements are evidence of the work of a genius on a par with Leo himself. This guitar probably won't command the respect it deserves from it's looks alone; but the functionality of the controls, headstock, and overall playability after its body meets yours will earn the full respect from even the most descerning guitarist.
Tone: if you're still not convinced you're holding the work of a world-class craftsman BEFORE plugging in, you will be after moments of intimacy with the Classic into you favorite amp. Whether thru my Dr Z Maz 18, Fuchs ODS-30, Swart AST, or Chicago Blues Box I find all the classic Tele tones and more. But this guitar gets a higher rung in sonic heaven. Country and blues pickers will be able to match any delightful experiences they've ever known and then go beyond with this axe. And within the early numbers of that tone knob lie sonic pleasantries to inspire even the most accomplished jazzer. After owning all the other CPT models, I had no doubt that the Classic would be as outstanding and masterfully built as the other models. I didn't hesitate to order the first one, with nothing more to go on than that it would resemble a Tele and be made by THE MAN. Frankly, I expected NO surprises. But the big surprise to me is how well this thing performs as a jazz guitar. Warm and sparkling aren't often mentioned together in the same sentence for other guitars, but you will hear it with this one.
Although my CPT Fusion seems to offer a slightly larger tonal palatte, the Classic isn't going to disappoint anyone. In fact, it really isn't really built for everyone. 99% of Tele-luvvers are going to be just fine with the Teles of their choice. The Classic is like a Limited Edition, Custom Shop, Signature commemorative model all rolled into one.... and MORE. It's for the player who wants MORE, the collector who wants More, and the investor who wants MORE. I cannot imagine any player not lusting for it on the spot because of the inspiration he feels during a test drive. I can't imagine any collector not wanting it for it's uniqueness and rarity. And any instrument investor will immediately realize that all CP Thornton guitars are both unique AND underpriced!!
Like I said, I'm probably Chuck's biggest fan. Not only of the instruments he builds [I still want a violin from his earlier work], but of the man himself. He is so easy to talk with and so knowledgable about what works and why. I feel blessed to have met him and have him work with me to create the finest guitars I could ever hope to own. I would really like to have met Leo Fender, but never did. I wasn't going to let that happen with the other guitar genius of my lifetime. I've owned guitars that cost much more, but none have ever suited like my CPT's. I've always wanted MORE.