Fender Stratocaster Eric Clapton "Brownie" Tribute Masterbuilt Todd Krause (2013)

On June 24, 1999 Eric Clapton's "Brownie," which he had played regularly at countless gigs between 1970 and 1999, was auctioned off for charity at a price of $497,500. This guitar, dating back to 1956, was acquired by Clapton in London in 1967, it was his first ever Stratocaster and he recorded his debut solo album with it, which is generally considered his most famous album and highest musical achievement. 14 years later the Fender Custom Shop honored the legendary instrument with an Eric Clapton "Brownie" Tribute Stratocaster, limited to 100 specimens worldwide. This example (#27/100) from that edition, which was meticulously crafted after extensive research on the real 'Brownie', comes matching the original color in a classy 2-tone sunburst finish, subtle relicing and artificially aged pickups with the typical sound character of 1956. Every last scratch, quirk and even cigarette burn has been faithfully replicated. On top of that the guitar comes in a fancy black case made of textured vinyl with the inscription "Fragile" - true to the days of Derek and the Dominos. This case also conceals a number of extras including a numbered certificate of authenticity with Clapton's own signature, the "40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition" of the album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, on the back of which the guitar is also pictured, a book on the history of the Fender company with numerous photos and a brochure on Clapton's Crossroads project in Antigua. But this Strat should by no means be reduced to its great rarity and collector value. It can also fully convince with its top playability and its characteristic killer sound. The neck with its Soft-V profile is extremely comfortable in the hand and can be played fantastically in conjunction with the 7.25'' radius and the proven Vintage-Style frets. The sound is pure Clapton: the tones of "Layla" or "Key to the Highway" virtually spray out of the '56 Strat single coils: wonderfully open, lively, pearly and clear. So we are very happy to be able to offer you this icon of music history in absolute top condition.

• Including original case, certificate, cable, Cruz tool, case candy
• Weight: 3405 grams