Originally introduced as Fender's mid '60s flagship student model, the Fender Mustang has become a favourite of players of all styles due to its comfortable short scale design and its unique sound, due in part to the pickup phase switching only found on this model. This 1969 Fender 'Competition' Mustang is from the first production year of this variant of the model. It is also the same colour and year as the guitar famously played by Kurt Cobain in the 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' music video.
This 1969 Mustang is a fantastic example of a later 'Competition' series of Mustang guitars produced by Fender from 1969 to 1973, comprised of Orange, Red and Blue (or 'Burgundy' as per the Fender catalog) finishes with a 'Competition' racing stripe on the body. This guitar is an example of the Blue / Burgundy model, with a darker shaded edge around the blue body, along with the matching headstock found on early examples. These edges originally had a more purple hue when sprayed, and a far more vibrant blue look to the finish on the rest of the body, although this darkened and faded as the clear lacquer top coat yellowed over time and is more or less visible depending on the condition of the specific guitar.
This Mustang shows signs of its darker edge, but generally it appears more as the flat, slightly yellowed blue associated with the model, with the more vibrant blue contrast can be seen both under the guard and in the neck pocket. The electronics and all other hardware are original with the exception of the switches, which are later, and some added cloth wire for the grounds.
This Mustang is in excellent cosmetic condition, with only the most minor signs of play wear to the finish, and only minimal fadeout. The neck has a comfortable profile with plenty of life left in the frets. The original grey bottom pickups date to 1969, and the electronics are original with the pots dating to the tail end of 1969 (137 6942). This guitar also includes its original export case.
This guitar has been given a full service and appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty. Please enquire for any internal pictures.
