Electric Guitar Review

After slipping into my best Ninja outfit and stealthily sneaking my way through the dark recesses of Fender’s website, I came across this breathtaking beauty––Fender’s Builder Select 1961 Stratocaster Relic, Masterbuilt by John Cruz.

As far as I can gather, this thoroughly worn-in Strat, which is apparently slated for release this month, will be produced in a run of just 100 instruments, and will come fully loaded with top-shelf upgrades.

Unique features are expected to include a special “faded wide” 3-color sunburst nitrocellulose finish, maple fat “C” shaped neck, dark Indian rosewood fretboard w/compound radius of 9.5“ to 12” (not something you see everyday on a Strat,) a set of Dunlop’s 6100 frets, a pair of LTD John Cruz Custom neck & mid singlecoils, Dimarzio Tone Zone humbucker at the bridge, and Fender’s versatile S-1 switching.

The guitar will also sport a body of select alder, bone nut, 4-ply tortoise shell pickguard, American Vintage synchronized tremolo unit, Fender/Gotoh vintage-style tuners, and of course Fender’s “Relic” treatment––imparting the instrument with a decidedly used & abused look and feel.

Comes with a Deluxe Blonde Hardshell Case (with red plush interior,) strap, cable, and a Limited Edition Certificate. No word on pricing.