The Black Strat.

The Custom Shop recreations of the fabled Fender on which Gilmour built his career, have been described by the man himself as, “Just as good as my Black Strat, if not better.”

It’s easy to agree with the Pink Floyd legend. This collectors item is radiating that elusive blend of presence, feel and tonal character that players endlessly chase but rarely reach. It’s the sort of instrument that invites you to linger on a single note, to explore the space between phrases, to lose yourself in the bloom and decay of a sound that feels almost alive under your fingertips.

There’s an unmistakable balance here; clarity without sterility, warmth without mud and a dynamic response that seems to anticipate your intent before you even articulate it. Whether you’re coaxing shimmering cleans or leaning into a epic wall of screaming fuzz and echoes, it delivers with a depth and dimensionality that feels both familiar and strangely intangible. It’s not just about what it does, but how it makes you play; with considered purpose and creative intention.

Finished in period-correct nitrocellulose, the surface has begun to settle in gracefully, showing only light swirl marks and the faintest impressions from handling. These are purely cosmetic, lending a touch of lived-in authenticity without detracting from its overall excellent condition. The frets remain intact with no wear, offering a pristine playing surface and there are no dings, damages or notable blemishes to speak of overall. Even the protective film still sits on the back plate; this one’s spent most of life in the case as a collectors piece.

Supplied with its certificate of authenticity, accompanying book on the history of the original, CD of David’s live performance in Gdansk and Fender strap; the evidence audio cable is sadly absent from the package, but easily replaceable.

Main Features & Specs

• Colour: Black
• Serial: R85961
• Year: 2016
• Body Material: Alder
• Neck Material: Maple
• Neck Profile: Replica ‘Thin Shoulder’ C Shape - Duplicated from Davids original.
• Fingerboard: Maple, 7.25" Radius
• Frets: Vintage, 21
• Scale Length: 25.5"
• Pickups: Custom Wound Neck and Middle with Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Bridge
• Bridge Type: Vintage Vibrato with Bent Steel Saddles
• Tuners: Vintage Style
• Finish Type: Gloss Nitrocellulose
• Other Special Features: Mini-Toggle add neck pikcup to positions 1,2 and 3. Shortened Trem Arm.
• Weight: 3.48 Kg
• Case: Original Fender Hard Case

All our pre-owned guitars and basses are sold freshly set-up & fully serviced in our state-of-the-art guitar workshop. The pre-sale service includes a 21 point check, including:  

• Brand new strings
• Action
• Electronic components
• Neck angle and Truss Rod adjustment
• Hardware
• Fretwork
• Clean and condition inc. Fretboard
• Saddle/Bridge height, radius, intonation
• Nut  

The Absolute multi point pre sales service & set-up is free with every pre-owned guitar. Also included is a 12 month warranty*. We provide a 14 day no-quibble money back guarantee on all our used instruments, so you can buy with confidence.  

Frequently Asked Questions ➤ Is this Black Strat an authentic Fender Custom Shop model?
Yes, this is a genuine Fender Custom Shop recreation meticulously crafted to replicate David Gilmour’s original Black Strat. It includes a certificate of authenticity.
➤ Are there any signs of wear or damage on the guitar?
The guitar shows only light swirl marks and minor handling impressions typical of a well-preserved vintage instrument. The frets and hardware are in excellent condition with no notable damage.
➤ Does the guitar come with accessories?
It includes the original Fender hard case, certificate of authenticity, a history book, a CD of David Gilmour’s live performance in Gdańsk, and a Fender strap. Please note an audio cable is not provided but can be purchased separately.
➤ What setup and servicing are included before delivery?
The guitar is freshly serviced and set up free of charge with a comprehensive 21-point check including new strings, fretwork, electronics, neck and hardware adjustments to ensure perfect playability.
➤ What is your return policy?
We offer a 14-day no-quibble money-back guarantee on all pre-owned instruments, allowing you to buy with confidence.

Outside the UK?

Please note that shipping costs outside the UK are very approximate and can vary radically. Please contact us with your Country and Post/Zip Code for an accurate quote. Many thanks. Please also note if you are outside the UK we will not charge you tax on your purchase but you may be liable for import duty in your country.

Please also note that all our stock is sold for the UK market. If you are buying from outside the UK, please check that it is suitable for use in your country before purchase.

Please note we do not ship guitars outside the European Union.