Fender Custom Shop 1960 Stratocaster Relic Sonic Blue 2001'

This 2001 Fender Custom Shop 1960 Stratocaster Relic was built during one of the most significant periods in Fender Custom Shop history, when the team was heavily focused on recreating the look, feel, and tone of original vintage Stratocasters.

This guitar is part of the early Time Machine Relic Series, one of the foundations upon which today's Custom Shop Relic program was built. Original RELIC stamps are present in both the neck pocket and neck heel, while the neck is dated February 9, 2001, confirming its authenticity and production period.

Finished in a beautifully aged Sonic Blue, the guitar features subtle lacquer checking, naturally worn edges, and tasteful relic work that captures the spirit of a well-preserved vintage instrument. Unlike many modern relics, the aging on this early Custom Shop example is restrained and organic, reflecting the craftsmanship and philosophy of Fender's early relic program.

The guitar is fitted with a dark, richly figured Slab Rosewood fingerboard, as seen on original early-1960s Stratocasters. Combined with the excellent wood selection and stable neck condition, it delivers both outstanding playability and vintage-inspired aesthetics.

The pickups and electronics remain original, and the neck pocket and pickup cavities retain their original factory markings and RELIC stamps. An additional point of interest is the presence of John Cruz's initials (JC) on the neck heel, a detail often associated with the production and inspection process of early Fender Custom Shop instruments.

Early 2000s Fender Custom Shop Relics continue to be highly regarded by players and collectors alike, and these first-generation Time Machine Relic models have become increasingly difficult to find on the market.

Specifications

• Model: Fender Custom Shop Time Machine Relic
• Year: 2001
• Style: 1960 Stratocaster Relic
• Finish: Sonic Blue
• Neck Date: February 9, 2001
• RELIC Stamps: Neck Pocket & Neck Heel
• Fingerboard: Slab Rosewood
• Bridge: Vintage-Style Tremolo
• Pickups: Original Fender Custom Shop Pickups
• Electronics: Original
• Includes: Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
• Case: Original Fender Hard Case