Originally introduced in the mid ’60s as Fender’s flagship student model, the Mustang has since become a firm favourite with players of all styles, thanks to its comfortable short scale feel and its distinctive sound, shaped in part by the unique pickup phase switching found only on this model. This 1969 Fender Mustang in Competition Red dates from the first year of production for the Competition series, with the redesigned racing stripe design that makes this undoubtedly one of Fenders most recognisable vintage instruments.
This guitar is a superb example of the Competition series Mustangs produced between 1969 and 1973, offered in Orange, Red and Blue (referred to as Burgundy in Fender catalogues), each finished with the signature racing stripe. The Competition Red finish has aged nicely over the years, with an almost burnt orange look in some lights due to the red lacquer fading out over time, along with the matching headstock seen on early examples.
Cosmetically, this Mustang is in good condition, showing some surface level play wear, lacquer checking, and finish fade out. There are areas where small amounts of lacquer appear to have been touched up sympathetically, although they have not been blended in with the original finish. The neck has a comfortable profile with plenty of life left in the frets, with the butt ink stamped MAY 69. There has been a small repair to the neck heel, with a split around one of the neck screw holes being glued and clamped by our own luthiers. The original grey bottom pickups are present and correct, and the original pots date to 1966, although full codes are obscured by solder (137 66XX). The bridge ground wire also appears to have been resoldered. This guitar is accompanied by its original short scale case.
This guitar has been given a full service and appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 2 year warranty. Please enquire for any internal pictures.
