In the realm of electric guitars, Fender stands as an iconic name synonymous with innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless musicality. Over the decades, Fender has produced numerous legendary models that have shaped the sound of generations. However, among the vast array of Fender guitars, there exist some truly rare and coveted gems, each with its own unique story and allure. In this exploration, we delve into 9 of the rarest Fender guitars ever created, showcasing their historical significance, distinctive features, and enduring appeal.
Fender ’51 Nocaster Relic
The Fender ’51 Nocaster Relic recreates the essence of the original Nocaster, a transitional model produced in limited numbers in 1951 before being renamed the Telecaster. Featuring a distinctive butterscotch blonde finish, vintage-style hardware, and a fat U-shaped neck profile, this guitar captures the magic of Fender’s early pioneering years.
Fender Custom Shop Esquire Relic ’55
The Fender Custom Shop Esquire Relic ’55 pays homage to the early days of Fender’s solid-body electric guitars. With its single-cutaway ash body, vintage-style hardware, and a single bridge pickup, this guitar exudes the raw, primal tone that defined the birth of rock ‘n’ roll.
Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition ’59 Special Stratocaster Heavy Relic
The Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition ’59 Special Stratocaster Heavy Relic combines vintage aesthetics with modern playability. With a roasted alder body, hand-wound pickups, and a Heavy Relic finish, this guitar offers players a unique blend of classic tone and contemporary performance.
Fender Custom Shop ’60 Stratocaster Heavy Relic
The Fender Custom Shop ’60 Stratocaster Heavy Relic recreates the vibe of a well-worn 1960 Stratocaster. Its alder body, maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard, and hand-wound pickups deliver the smooth, articulate tone that has made the Stratocaster a timeless classic.
Fender Custom Shop ’61 Stratocaster Heavy Relic
The Fender Custom Shop ’61 Stratocaster Heavy Relic pays tribute to the early ’60s era of Stratocaster production. Featuring a lightweight alder body, vintage-style tremolo system, and hand-wound pickups, this guitar captures the vintage tone and vibe of the early surf and rock ‘n’ roll scenes.
Fender Custom Shop ’62 Telecaster Custom Heavy Relic
The Fender Custom Shop ’62 Telecaster Custom Heavy Relic combines the iconic Telecaster design with modern craftsmanship. Its alder body, custom-wound pickups, and Heavy Relic finish offer players a vintage-inspired instrument with enhanced playability and tone.
Fender Custom Shop ’63 Telecaster Custom Heavy Relic
The Fender Custom Shop ’63 Telecaster Custom Heavy Relic channels the spirit of the mid-’60s Telecaster models. With its lightweight ash body, vintage-style hardware, and Custom Shop hand-wound pickups, this guitar delivers the twangy, articulate tone that has made the Telecaster a staple in country, rock, and blues music.
Fender Custom Shop ’65 Stratocaster Journeyman Relic
The Fender Custom Shop ’65 Stratocaster Journeyman Relic offers a blend of vintage aesthetics and modern playability. With a lightweight alder body, hand-wound pickups, and a Journeyman Relic finish, this guitar delivers the iconic Stratocaster tone with a comfortable and road-worn feel.
Fender Custom Shop ’70 Stratocaster Heavy Relic
The Fender Custom Shop ’70 Stratocaster Heavy Relic channels the vibe of the early ’70s Stratocaster models with its Heavy Relic finish and vintage-style appointments. Its alder body, maple neck, and Custom Shop pickups offer players the classic Stratocaster tone with a touch of vintage character and playability.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
