Fender 1993 Robben Ford signature model

1after909 · #1 09-25-2022, 05:59 PM

Up for grabs is my ‘1993 Fender (Japan) Robben Ford signature model in excellent condition.
This was Fender’s take on a Gibson style set neck Les Paul style guitar. At the time Fender was only building instruments out of Japan as Bill Schulz and the staff were in the process of buying back the company from CBS. This instrument was part of their “Master Series” of instruments along with the Jimmy D’Aquisto archtops. Made by the finest Japanese luthiers of the time with great attention to detail. The guitar is in a beautiful cherry sunburst with an chambered alder body and spruce top. 1 11/16” at the nut with a very comfortable shallow “C” neck profile.
Ebony fretboard with abalone and mother of pearl fret markers.
Pickups are humbucker sized Lindy Fralin P-92’s which are P-90 voiced but without the hum
sometimes associated with that style of pickup. The tone is as clear as a bell with great warmth definition and breakup when pushed. So much so as the previous owner removed the bridge treble pot and disconnected the coil split as there was still plenty of high end clarity.
The tone pot is included in the sale and can be easily be reinstalled along with the coil split if desired. I loved the tone as is and never felt the desire to change it.
I really don’t know why Fender doesn’t continue to make these. They really are outstanding instruments and really gave Gibson and others a run for their money in the Les Paul/335 territory. Please don’t confuse this instrument to the flame or elite models that some state are RF models..they are not! They are VERY different. Most are solid bodies in all alder. Guitar weighs 8.0 lbs
Robben has stated that these Japanese versions were his favorite version as he felt the spruce top gave it more nuance in his approach. After this year Fender setup their US production plant and the guitar become only available thru the Fender custom shop and of course was much more expensive. It was no longer offered with a spruce top.
For examples of this instrument please refer to Robben’s and the Blue line’s album…
“Talk to your Daughter” which Robben used his signature model to Great effect.
Guitar has a few small nicks and light scratches but is in very good shape for a 30 year guitar.
Frets are in great shape, there are no structural issues. Comes with the original case too in great shape.These instruments are becoming collectible but more then that their versatile great playing and sounding instruments! $2400.00 shipped and insured in con USA only!
More photos available please PM… Thanks!!