There are Master Built guitars, and then there are John Cruz guitars.
John Cruz began his career at Fender in 1987 and spent decades refining what many players consider the ultimate expression of a Stratocaster. Appointed Master Builder in 2003, Cruz became responsible for some of the most revered Custom Shop instruments ever produced, including faithful recreations of guitars owned and played by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jeff Beck, Yngwie Malmsteen, John Mayer, and Gary Moore. His work is widely regarded as some of the finest to ever leave the Fender Custom Shop.
This ’64 Stratocaster is a perfect example of why his instruments command such respect. Everything about it feels deliberate. The body contours are sculpted just that little bit deeper, the neck and headstock edges are impossibly smooth, and the overall balance is exceptional. It has the unmistakable feel of a guitar that was not just built, but finished by hand with total intent.
Despite being over a decade old, this guitar presents exactly as it did when it left the Custom Shop. The relic treatment is tasteful and restrained, designed to replicate a well-loved vintage Strat rather than exaggerate wear. There are no modifications, no visible fret wear, and nothing that detracts from its originality. In essence, it is a beautifully executed modern replica of a well-played mid-’60s Stratocaster, frozen in time.
At just 7.18 lbs (3.26 kg), it is notably lightweight and resonant. The neck features a substantial but refined large “C” profile, offering a reassuring handful without feeling cumbersome. Combined with Cruz’s custom-wound pickups, the guitar delivers a balanced, articulate tone with depth, clarity, and a lively acoustic response that translates effortlessly through an amp.
Since John Cruz’s departure from Fender in 2020, his Master Built instruments have become increasingly difficult to find and consistently more desirable. Each one reflects his personal approach to feel, tone, and final execution — something that cannot be replicated or replaced. Guitars like this are not only exceptional musical tools, but highly collectable instruments with strong long-term appeal.
This example is complete with its Fender Custom Shop hardshell case, Certificate of Authenticity, and all original case candy, all in excellent condition.
Specifications
- Scale Length: 25.5”
- Fretboard Radius: 9.5”
- Finish: 3-Tone Sunburst
- Weight: 3.26 kg / 7.18 lbs
- Action (1st fret): 0.50 mm
- Action (12th fret): 2.0 mm
- Neck Depth (1st fret): 22.6 mm
- Neck Depth (12th fret): 24.5 mm
- Neck Profile: Large “C”
- Nut Width: 41.81 mm
- 12th Fret Width: 51.58 mm
- Nut Material: Bone
- Neck Material: Maple
- Fretboard Inlays: Black Micarta Dots
- Body Material: Alder
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Pickups:
- Neck: 5.7kΩ
- Middle: 5.9kΩ
- Bridge: 5.6kΩ
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- Tuners: Vintage Fender Single-Line
- Pickguard: 3-Ply ’64 Strat Style
- Bridge: American Vintage Strat Tremolo
- Case: Original Fender Custom Shop Hardshell Case