1996 Fender Cunetto Relic Stratocaster — Dakota Red — Norman’s Rare Guitars Special Run — John Cruz Neck

A truly exceptional Cunetto-era Stratocaster.

Offered here is a 1996 Fender Cunetto Relic Stratocaster in Dakota Red—one of the rarest custom colors of the Cunetto period, and widely considered among the hardest to find.

This guitar was part of a special, limited run made exclusively for Norman's Rare Guitars, making it significantly rarer than standard Cunetto production examples.

What sets this example apart

• Ultra-rare Dakota Red finish (seldom seen in the Cunetto era)
• Norman’s Rare Guitars–only run
• Neck built by John Cruz
• Neck profile: round, full round C (not the more common Cunetto V)
• Exceptionally realistic lacquer checking, including lengthwise checking—correct to true vintage Stratocasters and rarely executed this accurately

Condition & Originality

• All original
• Excellent playability
• Includes a brown Fender hard case, believed to be original to the guitar

Dakota Red Cunetto Relics are rarely seen
Norman’s Rare Guitars Cunetto runs are rarely seen.
Finding both together—on a John Cruz–neck example—is exceptional.

This is a collector-grade Cunetto Stratocaster, distinguished by color, provenance, and build pedigree.