That sounds like a great idea - like you I think the natural finish will be the go - especially if you find a great piece of timber.

I would like to build one from scratch next - another Tele with relief cuts in it but will a MusicMan style headstock (4 tuners on top and 2 below) - trying to get a piece of Queensland Maple for the purpose

Like you say though - there is only so much time in the day.....