1957/'58 Fender Stratocaster, Hardtail, Sunburst

An immensely cool ’57 spec ’58 hardtail Stratocaster in 2-tone sunburst with all the patina and natural ageing one could ask for. This is a superb example that really sings! A serious case of “if you know, you know” with hardtail Strats, particularly 50s models. They tend to have more resonance and sustain, giving a fuller more direct sound than their tremolo counterparts. No wonder these have found favour with players such as Billy Gibbons, Robert Cray, Joe Bonamasa and Nile Rodgers to name a few.

This one has seen some action over the years, testament to how good an instrument it is. Genuine wear and mojo by the bucketload, and a V neck profile that sits beautifully in the hand. The guitar is lightweight and lively, very comfortable to play with it’s pronounced ‘50s body contours. The pickups are well balanced and give you everything from bell-like tones to throaty snarl.

The headstock bears its original ‘no patent’ decal, single butterfly string-tree and original single-line Kluson tuners. The Maple neck is pencil dated 1-58, the nut is changed and it’s been refretted some time ago. The lightweight Alder body bears an 8-57 pencil date in the middle pickup route. The finish is original - nail holes present and correct, elbow wear, gorgeous lacquer checking, fading and wear throughout.

The 8 hole ABS pickguard and all other plastics are correct, as is the hardware with the jack plug missing some of it’s chrome plating. Interestingly, as is occasionally seen the neck plate bears two serial numbers (front and back) both dating to the period with the serial number on the back having a "-" prefix. Under the guard we have a trio of Stackpole pots, correct wiring, 3-way switch and capacitor.

History wise this was purchased by the guitar tech for a well known artist while on tour in the US in the early 2000s. The owner before was Stephen Bruton - a guitarist and friend of Robben Ford, who sold it to fund some studio gear at the time.

All in all, this Strat is inspiring to play and is a wonderful example of ‘50s Fender quality. A great choice for player or collector, complete with original tweed case.