This 1955 Stratocaster Heavy Relic from the Fender Custom Shop is finished in HLE Gold, with Heavy Relic Flash Coat lacquer that gives it the look and feel of a well-played early Strat that’s seen decades of use. The select ash body keeps the response lively and articulate, while the heavy aging adds depth and character without feeling forced. It’s a bold visual take on a mid-’50s Strat that still feels grounded in tradition. The substantial 1954 “U”-shaped quartersawn maple neck delivers an authoritative grip, balanced by a vintage compound radius that keeps things comfortable up and down the neck. Custom Shop hand-wound Fat ’50s Strat pickups provide classic sparkle, warmth, and bite, with a familiar, musical response across all five positions. A confident, character-forward Strat that blends early-’50s DNA with Custom Shop craftsmanship. Comes with Deluxe Hardshell Case and Certificate of Authenticity.