Fender 50s Strat BKoVBL Relic MBAH

Each Masterbuilder relic guitar is individually aged with a remarkable level of detail. Andy Hicks places particular emphasis on lightweight tonewoods and an authentic feel, and that comes through clearly in this 50s Strat. The ageing itself feels carefully composed – a cohesive recreation from the hand of a true relic specialist. From the visible playwear and the oxidation on the hardware, through to the subtly yellowed plastic parts that sit naturally against the Vintage Blonde undercoat, every element contributes harmoniously to the whole. Equally notable are the three single coils, hand-wound by Josefina Campos. At Fender, she's widely known as the "Queen of Pickups", and her work is recognised for its clarity and dynamic response. She was chosen by Abigail Ybarra – in turn, a pupil of Leo Fender himself – to learn the craft, and continues that tradition to this day.

Fender is without question one of the most iconic names in the world of guitars and amplifiers. Founded in 1946 by Leo Fender, the company has shaped the landscape of electric guitars and basses like few others. Working in the spirit of those early years, Fender's Masterbuilders create both faithful recreations of legendary instruments and modern interpretations that take things in new directions. Andy Hicks has been part of the Fender Custom Shop for some years, and a Masterbuilder since 2022. After his training as a guitar maker, he worked as assistant to Gretsch Custom Shop senior masterbuilder Mike Stern, whose relic work and design ideas are widely regarded for capturing vintage character with exceptional accuracy. Coming out of that background, Hicks' guitars are more than simple vintage tributes. They're defined by authentic ageing and finely judged craftsmanship, all guided by a clear aim: Achieving a coherent sense of perfection in look, sound, and execution.