The Guitar Player's Resource
You're looking at a one-of-a-kind guitar that channels Keith Richards' raw, rebellious energy from those early Stones videos. He didn't use clear guitars often, but when he did it made serious impact.
Now, sometimes a single performance can elevate an instrument from curiosity to must-have status. H.E.R.'s 2019 Grammy Awards show did exactly that for clear acrylic guitars - her soulful vocals, brilliant showmanship, and that slow-burning guitar solo played on a see-through Custom Shop Strat turned heads worldwide.
Fender Custom Shop master builder Scott Buehl made a decision to make these rare instruments available to players who want that same striking visual impact.
The acrylic body isn't just about eye-catching aesthetics, though it certainly delivers that. Acrylic provides a balanced tone with excellent frequency separation - think of it as sonic clarity that matches the visual transparency. You're getting an interesting foundation for those fourth-generation noiseless electronics, which eliminate hum without sacrificing the classic Stratocaster voice that made this design legendary.
Here's where the Custom Shop craftsmanship really shows: that one-piece quartersawn neck provides incredible stability and sustain. The increased mass from the solid construction yields a natural feel that many players find more comfortable than traditional multi-piece necks. Combined with the 9.5" radius fingerboard and jumbo frets, you've got a playing surface that handles everything from spanky R&B rhythm work to saturated lead lines with dexterous bends and articulate two-handed tapping.
The vintage-style tremolo gives you classic Strat vibrato expression, while that clear pickguard completes the stunning visual statement. Whether you're channeling H.E.R.'s sophisticated R&B approach or exploring your own musical territory, this instrument provides both sonic versatility and undeniable stage presence.
Being crafted one at a time by Scott Buehl ensures each guitar meets Custom Shop standards for both playability and visual perfection. This isn't just a conversation piece - it's a serious performance instrument that happens to look absolutely stunning under stage lights.
