Fender Custom Shop 1997 1960 Relic Stratocaster

“Among the Fender Custom Shop Relic models, I want a true collector’s item—and a guitar I can actually play—that boasts a special story and an overwhelming tone.”
“But it’s rare to come across a guitar that captures the atmosphere of that era—something you can’t experience with today’s Relic finishes—and features rich, three-dimensional harmonics that spread out like an acoustic guitar.” Aren’t you looking for a Stratocaster that goes beyond a
mere replica, boasting a class above the rest in both style and supreme sound?

In 1995, the Relic Series—which shines brilliantly in the history of the Fender Custom Shop—was launched. During its dawn years, from 1995 to 1999, the Relic finishing process was on a consignment basis with the legendary craftsman Vince Knett.

The number of these early Relic models—known as the “Cunetto Era”—available on the market has plummeted year by year. Furthermore, to come across an instrument supervised by John Cruz, who would later make a name for himself as a legendary master builder, is nothing short of a miraculous stroke of luck.

This is a miraculous instrument that beautifully embodies the romance of the Custom Shop’s golden age and its supreme acoustic qualities. A Fender Custom Shop 1960 Relic Stratocaster in Burgundy Mist from the late 1990s “Cunetto Era,” featuring John Cruz’s stamp engraved on the back of the neck. It encapsulates a one-of-a-kind, luxurious story and specifications that will stir the hearts of vintage enthusiasts and players alike.

This early Relic model, crafted by Vince Cunetto, was produced only during the extremely brief period from 1995 to 1999. Its natural, authentic weathercrack and aging treatments exude an aura that sets it apart from recent models.

This is a rare specimen from the period when John Cruz—a master builder who has created countless legendary instruments—served as the supervising builder. The “John Cruz” stamp engraved on the back of the neck attests to its exceptional quality.

The body features an elegant “Burgundy Mist” finish. Mr. Knet’s relic finish, combined with the passage of approximately 30 years, creates a sophisticated, subdued charm that is neither flashy nor lacking in depth.

It delivers a rich, enveloping harmonic richness and a three-dimensional soundstage, as if you were playing a high-quality acoustic guitar. Regardless of whether you play in the front, middle, or rear position, it produces a Strat tone that’s a cut above the rest, showcasing a rich, distinct character that never gets lost in the mix.

This instrument represents the intersection of the “Cunetto Era”—a period of special significance in Custom Shop history—and the legacy of master luthier John Cruz. After nearly 30 years, the wood has matured to perfection, offering not only significant collectible value but also serving as a ready-to-play asset that exudes a one-of-a-kind presence on stage and in the recording studio, bringing pure joy to any guitarist.

The origin and pinnacle of Fender Relic. This is your chance to experience the three-dimensional harmonics that envelop the space the moment you play a single note, along with the ultimate playing feel.

[SPEC
] BODY: Alder
NECK: Maple
FINGERBOARD: Rosewood
P.U.: Original
WEIGHT: 3.50 kg
NUT WIDTH: 41.8 mm
Includes original hard case and COA
. Long-scale neck
*Refret

[Repair/Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
*Please note that as this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection.
We appreciate your understanding.

*Thoroughly adjusted in-store and comes with a 5-year adjustment warranty for your peace of mind.* Please feel free to contact our staff for more details about the
product. *We offer high buyback prices for items purchased from
our store.