Before they released the likes of the Telecaster & Stratocaster, the history of Fender began with lapsteel production in the mid '40s. The first Fender lapsteel models were introduced in 1946 are equally as revered as the electric guitars produced by the company, and formed the blueprints of many of the production methods and electronics that would go on to be used on the companies guitars throughout the next decades. This 1949 Fender Champion lapsteel is from the first run of Champions ever produced, after the companies first foray in to lapsteels with the Woody model of the mid '40s. This Champion has some features that are specific to these first year models, such as the flat blond finish and square fret fingerplate. The original pots, pickup and knobs have been replaced, but this lapsteel is otherwise original and still sounds perfect for vintage steel guitar tones. Also included is a period crocodile chipboard case.
This lapsteel has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty. Also included is the original Fender case and legs.
