1954 Fender Stratocaster – Sunburst (ex Rick Vito)
First-year Strats have such a mystique about them, and this 1954 Fender Stratocaster in Sunburst, owned by Rick Vito of Fleetwood Mac, is definitely no exception! Rick Vito took over lead guitarist duties for Fleetwood Mac in 1987 following the departure of Lindsey Buckingham and remained in the group until 1991. This particular guitar was purchased by Vito in 1980, and it lived primarily in his studio for use whenever needed. In this guitar’s accompanying letter, Vito is kind enough to list all the songs he played this exact guitar on. This guitar’s recording history aside, this first-year Strat still sports its original early components, from the short skirt knobs, football switch tip, and “bakelite” pickup covers, with the only exception being single line Kluson tuners which first appeared in 1956. In just the first few minutes of playing this piece, you can feel why he calls this a “special” Strat in the letter. Thanks to a professional refret with jumbo frets, the playability is incredible up and down the neck. All three pickups are very closely rated for a nice balanced tone in each switch position.
Overall Condition: 7, playwear throughout, edgewear through the clear, patina
Specifications
- finish_details Sunburst, Original, Good Condition with playwear throughout the body, especially on the edges of the guitar body
- body_material Ash
- neck_material Maple
- fretboard_material Maple
- neck_profile Medium C
- weight 8 lbs 6 oz
- scale_length 25-1/2"
- pickup_readings N: 5.24K M: 5.13K B: 5.19K
- tubes
- speakers
- electronics Original, Untouched
- nut_width 1-5/8"
- hardware Original aside from single line Kluson tuners and refret, Good Condition with playwear and patina
- includes Original Tweed Hardshell Case with (relined) red lining
- year
Well Strung Guitars
Upon receipt, if you are dissatisfied with your purchase, you must notify WSG within 24 hours. We will refund your money as soon as the merchandise is returned to us in the same condition as when it shipped out. The customer is responsible for all shipping, insurance, and bank fees that may be incurred throughout the return process. All returns must be packaged in the same materials that the guitar was sent out to ensure the safety of the instrument. All claims regarding loss or damage are the responsibility of the purchaser.