The Fender Custom Shop 1956 Heavy Relic Thinline Stratocaster embodies the rugged charm of an original '50s workhorse Strat that's survived decades of gigs and all-night jam sessions. This limited-edition instrument authentically replicates the unmistakable look, feel and tone of a hard-played vintage guitar that's developed its own character over years of use. From its relic'd ash body to its handwound pickups, every detail evokes the vibe of a tried-and-true thinline that's been there and back.

Relic'd for Authentic Vintage Tone

At the heart of this Thinline Strat lies a relic'd ash body with an f-hole for that coveted semi-hollow tone. The aged heavy relic lacquer finish is riddled with simulated dings, chips and wear marks that recreate the appearance of a true vintage workhorse. This battered aesthetic isn't just for looks though—it also impacts the resonance and sustain, infusing your tone with the character that only years of playing can achieve. The aged lacquer finish on the one-piece quartersawn maple neck adds to the vintage vibe while enhancing resonance.

Vintage-Spec Neck for Classic Playability

Crafted from quartersawn maple, the one-piece neck features the comfortable '56 V-shape profile that so many players love. The 9.5" fingerboard radius is ideal for effortless string bending and vibrato, while the 21 vintage-style 6105 frets provide that broken-in feel right away. Every bend, run and chord rings out with the trademark resonance and sustain that made vintage Strats so revered. From the bone nut to the relic'd neck finish, every aspect of this neck contributes to the unmistakable vintage playing experience.

Handwound '50s Pickups Deliver Classic Strat Voices

To authentically replicate those iconic '50s Strat tones, the Fender Custom Shop loaded this Thinline model with a trio of handwound Fat '50s single-coil pickups. The neck and bridge pickups have that quintessential Strat spank, with bell-like chime and articulation that sings out for lead playing. But the real star is the reverse-wound/reverse-polarity middle pickup that lets you dial in authentic humbucking "in-between" sounds with liquid sustain and warmth. Combining pickup settings provides endless tonal variations for any genre or style.

Premium Fender Extras and Extras

Beyond the meticulously crafted relic'd body, neck and pickups, this Thinline Strat includes several premium extras that make it gig-ready. The single-ply eggshell pickguard gives it that classic '50s aesthetic, while the 5-way pickup switch provides all those signature Strat tones. It also comes protected in a deluxe hardshell case and includes a strap and certificate of authenticity—everything you need to start channeling your favorite vintage guitar heroes right away.