The Fender Custom Shop 1956 Heavy Relic Thinline Stratocaster embodies the rugged charm of an original ´50s workhorse Strat that´s survived decades of gigs and all-night jam sessions. This limited-edition instrument authentically replicates the unmistakable look, feel and tone of a hard-played vintage guitar that´s developed its own character over years of use. From its relic´d ash body to its handwound pickups, every detail evokes the vibe of a tried-and-true thinline that´s been there and back.
Relic´d for Authentic Vintage Tone
At the heart of this Thinline Strat lies a relic´d ash body with an F-hole for that coveted semi-hollow tone. The aged heavy relic lacquer finish is riddled with simulated dings, chips and wear marks that recreate the appearance of a true vintage workhorse. This battered aesthetic isn´t just for looks though—it also impacts the resonance and sustain, infusing your tone with the character that only years of playing can achieve. The aged lacquer finish on the one-piece quartersawn maple neck adds to the vintage vibe while enhancing resonance.
Vintage-Spec Neck for Classic Playability
Crafted from quartersawn maple, the one-piece neck features the comfortable ´56 V-shape profile that so many players love. The 9.5" fingerboard radius is ideal for effortless string bending and vibrato, while the 21 vintage-style 6105 frets provide that broken-in feel right away. Every bend, run and chord rings out with the trademark resonance and sustain that made vintage Strats so revered. From the bone nut to the relic´d neck finish, every aspect of this neck contributes to the unmistakable vintage playing experience.
Handwound ´50s Pickups Deliver Classic Strat Voices
To authentically replicate those iconic ´50s Strat tones, the Fender Custom Shop loaded this Thinline model with a trio of handwound Fat ´50s single-coil pickups. The neck and bridge pickups have that quintessential Strat spank, with bell-like chime and articulation that sings out for lead playing. But the real star is the reverse-wound/reverse-polarity middle pickup that lets you dial in authentic humbucking "in-between" sounds with liquid sustain and warmth. Combining pickup settings provides endless tonal variations for any genre or style.
Premium Fender Extras and Extras
Beyond the meticulously crafted relic´d body, neck and pickups, this Thinline Strat includes several premium extras that make it gig-ready. The single-ply eggshell pickguard gives it that classic ´50s aesthetic, while the 5-way pickup switch provides all those signature Strat tones. It also comes protected in a deluxe hardshell case and includes a strap and certificate of authenticity—everything you need to start channeling your favorite vintage guitar heroes right away.
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.