Used 2024 Fender Custom Shop 1968 Stratocaster Journeyman Relic Charcoal Frost Metallic with OHSC
Most of the time, the Fender Custom Shop builds you see are 50's and early 60's models. Sometimes you see mid 60's stuff - but rarely do you see late 60's designs. So, we were thrilled to see this 1968 Stratocaster Journeyman Relic strutting through the door. Especially since it's Charcoal Frost Metallic, one of our favorite colors. As to be expected, the amazingly talented team at the Custom Shop nailed it.
A masterfully executed recreation of a 1968 Stratocaster, this Fender Custom Shop Journeyman Relic exemplifies vintage authenticity through its Charcoal Frost Metallic finish and carefully applied aging that documents years of performance. Period-accurate specifications govern every component, from hardware to electronics, while the instrument's construction methodology reflects genuine 1960s lutherie standards. The Custom Shop's meticulous setup delivers the responsive feel and tonal complexity characteristic of vintage instruments. Ideal for discerning musicians and collectors who demand both historical accuracy and dependable playability.
The body is made of alder, with a nitro lacquer finish that has the WLS undercoat. We found it to be quite resonant, sounding great even unplugged. The guitar feaetures a rock solid quartersawn maple with a '69 Style "U" neck profile (.850 - .910") to keep it period correct, capped with a quartersawn maple fretboard. It's super comfortable to play - while this isn't a super skinny neck in the first position, it doesn't fatten out a lot as you go up, lending itself to fast playing. The 7.25 - 9.50" compound radius keeps chord playing comfortable while flattening as you get to the higher register, for easy lead playing. You won't fret out up there either, thanks to the 6105 (narrow tall) frets. It's a urethane neck finish with a light tight, and a lacquer headstock face with medium tint, giving it the right look for the era. They even put the decal under the finish - every last detail is attended to.
This Custom Shop Stratocaster features Hand-Wound Master Design "Bone-Tone" pickups engineered with reduced wire turns and heavy Formvar construction, delivering the classic Strat voice with extended headroom and articulate dynamics under gain. You get the inconic tone and classic sound of a late 60's Strat - but with an added push and clarity that you normally wouldn't find.
Additionally, the innovative 1/2 Blender circuit expands tonal possibilities by introducing the neck pickup in position 1 for authentic dual-pickup character, and activating all three pickups in position 2. This configuration yields seven distinct pickup combinations, transforming the instrument into a tonally versatile platform capable of navigating vintage warmth through modern clarity and everything between.
Other features include a vintage Strat tremelo assembly, Schaller F tuners, and a bone nut. An added touch is the engraved neck plate.
The Journeyman Relic finish on this Custom Shop instrument authentically replicates decades of conscientious ownership—the kind of guitar that's seen countless sessions and performances yet remained meticulously maintained. The aging process reveals characteristic eggshell crazing across the surface, strategic wear patterns, and the distinctive fingerboard patina that only emerges from years of dedicated playing. Every detail speaks to an instrument that's been valued and played regularly, embodying the visual character of a true working musician's guitar.
The guitar includes original hard shell case and certificate of authenticity. It's in excellent condtion. Setup to play perfectly by the techs in our shop, it's ready for it's next home. If you're the market for a late 60's style Strat, this Custom Shop build is a serious find.