1958 was a significant year for the Fender Stratocaster. Various changes took place over the first four years of the guitar's evolution. Neck profiles changed from a medium C in 1954, gradually tapering towards the “boat tail” or “V” profile of 1957, and then pointing towards a C profile again in 1958. 1956 saw the change from ash to alder bodies, offering a smoother surface and a good base for the nitro finish. The year also saw an upgrade of the plastic pickup covers to a more durable material. Early pictures of Buddy Holly show a 1954 Stratocaster with the pickup covers crumbling apart due to his aggressive strumming technique. 1958 saw the introduction of the iconic Fender “three tone burst” with black, red, and yellow combining to give a striking “pop” to the sunburst. 1958 is also the last year of only maple necks being available, making late 1958/early 1959 an aesthetically unique time for the Stratocaster.
To say this guitar is pristine is an understatement. Looking at it up close, it is hard to believe this guitar was made 65 years ago. Not only is the finish virtually unmarred, the nitro has been out of the sun and has very little signs of yellowing, or even haze under UV light.
The guitar has cutting machining marks on the original vintage klusons. At the time, Fender would buy two sets of tuners from Kluson and trim down the ends to form the signature “6 in a line” configuration, pioneered by Paul Bigsby some years earlier. Dowel holes evident at the front of the body clarify the body is pre-1959.
The sound of this guitar is quintessential late 50s twang. The low wind pickups produce a clear, bell-like chime. The neck is straight and true with perfect low action of 1.5mm at the 12th fret. A lovely, not overly thick neck profile makes this guitar very comfortable to hold. In 1958, you couldn’t have found an easier-playing guitar.
We’re careful to verify the authenticity of our instruments at Premier Guitars, especially when they are as pristine as this one. It is immaculate. Virtually like new. One of the nicest collector grade 50s Stratocasters we’ve ever seen.
