1968 Fender Palomino – £999

NEW ARRIVAL  Fender’s foray into acoustic guitars began in 1963 with a range of guitars featuring electric necks bolted onto acoustic bodies. The idea being that the look and feel of a Fender electric neck would appeal to players wanting to crossover into acoustic playing, but still keeping the familiarity and playability of an electric guitar. In 1968 the Palomino was introduced, with even more nods to Fender’s electric guitars. The bridge features an electric style saddle configuration which makes it easier to tweak intonation. There’s also a tension rod running through the middle of the guitar to stop top bellying. Then there’s the gold foil backed pickguard which is just beautiful and the moustache bridge which is very eye catching. There you have it – the guitar is clearly over engineered, but only available until 1971, a rare and quirky piece of Fender history. With a ’68 Fender neck, the playability is great, the tone is bright and resonant, with plenty of punch, and has a real 60’s vibe to it. The guitar is in all original condition, with no cracks or repairs, just plenty of scuffs from years of use. It comes in a non original, vintage hard case.