A fantastic example of John Cruz’s meticulous craftsmanship at its peak with Abigail Ybarra's pickup winding wizardry! This is a real testament to the Masterbuilt line in terms of quality of components, construction and craftsmanship. It has the kind of acoustic response and snap that immediately tells you this is a special guitar.
The quarter-sawn maple neck a comfortable oval “C” profile. The 9.5" radius and narrow/tall 6105 fretwire make for an effortless playing experience, combining vintage feel with modern precision. Every detail, from the rolled fingerboard edges to the 4-bolt neck joint, body contours and neck carve is executed with Cruz’s trademark precision and attention to detail.
Electronics are Abigail Ybarra hand-wound ’60 Strat Relic pickup set, the middle unit reverse-wound for hum-cancelling positions. Together they deliver that unmistakable Strat chime - glassy and sweet at the top, with the bridge bringing a touch of bite and the neck oozing warmth and clarity.
Presented in excellent overall condition, this Masterbuilt example represents the pinnacle of Fender Custom Shop. Complete with its original brown G&G case, this is a superb opportunity to own one a fantastic Stratocaster under the legendary hand of John Cruz.
Full spec:
Builder: John Cruz (Masterbuilt)
Model: ’59 Stratocaster Relic (built to early ’59 spec)
Finish: NOS Black Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Body: 2-piece Alder
Neck: 1-piece Quartersawn Maple, 1959-style oval “C” profile
Fingerboard: 9.5" radius, 21 frets, 6105 fretwire
Nut Width: 1.650" | 12th fret width: 2.200"
Neck Finish: Nitrocellulose lacquer
Tuners: Vintage style nickel
Bridge: Vintage Strat synchronized tremolo assembly
Pickups: Hand-wound ’60 Strat Relic set (RWRP middle)
Electronics: 5-way selector, 250k pots, (white knobs and tip)
Pickguard: Custom 60 Strat nitro white/black/white NOS
Hardware: Chrome, vintage spec
Case: Brown tolex G&G case