Specs:
• Model: Fender Custom Shop ’61 Reissue Stratocaster Heavy Relic
• Finish: Lake Placid Blue – Heavy Relic Nitrocellulose
• Body: 2-Piece Alder
• Neck: Plain Grain Maple – 60 Style Oval “C” (.790” 1st / .930” 12th)
• Fingerboard: AAA Rosewood (Flat Lam)
• Radius: 7.25" Vintage
• Frets: 21 – Vintage Upgrade (45085)
• Nut Width: 1.650"
• Pickups: Handwound ’65 Strat Relic Set (Neck/Middle/Bridge)
• Controls: 5-Way Switch, 250K Pots
• Bridge: American Vintage Strat Relic Tremolo
• Tuners: Dual Pin Mount Chrome w/ Pearl Buttons
• Hardware: Chrome/Nickel (Relic)
• Case: Fender Custom Shop Brown Case + Candy
• Country: USA
• Year: 2023
• Condition: Mint
Personal Thoughts:
Lake Placid Blue and Heavy Relic is one of those combinations that just works — especially on a ’61 spec Strat.
This one leans vintage correct where it matters: 7.25" radius, flat-lam rosewood board, 60s Oval “C” carve — but paired with the slightly taller vintage upgrade fret wire, which makes bends feel easier and more modern without losing that early-60s feel.
The Handwound ’65 pickups are a great choice here. They give you that glassy top-end and hollow mid scoop you expect from a good pre-CBS style Strat, but with just enough output to stay punchy. Clean tones shimmer, neck pickup is syrupy and vocal, and the bridge has proper bite without going thin.
The Heavy Relic finish on Lake Placid Blue just has that “found in a case since 1964” vibe — lots of movement in the lacquer and proper Custom Shop wear without looking forced.
A serious player’s Strat that also ticks the collector box.
Condition Report:
Mint condition. No additional wear beyond the factory Heavy Relic finish. Frets are excellent. Supplied with original Custom Shop case and case candy.
Part Exchange Welcome:
Part exchange welcome. Video demos are available via our YouTube channel at Squealing Pig Guitars. Personal consignment service available via our site at a 10% rate.