Project makeover

If you always believed the CBS takeover transformed Fender guitars overnight, then think again because there were fewer changes than you might have imagined

Not only does this 1969 Tele illustrate Fender’s slowly changing post-Leo period, it also documents a lot of modding. Dave Burrluck should know – he was there!

During its long history, Fender has navigated several tricky turning points, but 1965 marks for some the start of a decline from the standards set by Leo’s original company. Is that view still justified?

This latest wave of Fender’s American Ultra models continues to cater for the modern player but with an old-looking vintage vibe. We just can’t escape the past!

Gary’s iconic early custom colour Strat is a fascinating timepiece forever linked to that blazing Fender anniversary performance of Red House

THE ULTRA AND Ultra II succeeded Fender’s Elite range as the manufacturer’s highest-end California-made production six-strings, with its most contemporary specs, including neck heel and rear body cont