2002 Fender Custom Shop Stratocaster – Robert Cray Signature | Violet Finish | USA-Made
Description
Here’s a truly special piece — a 2002 Fender Custom Shop Robert Cray Stratocaster in a striking Violet finish, built in the USA to the exacting standards of one of blues music’s most expressive voices. This hardtail Strat delivers soulful tone, unshakable tuning stability, and that unmistakable Custom Shop craftsmanship.
Built during a golden era for Fender’s Custom Shop, this is not just a tribute — it’s a professional-grade, no-compromise guitar designed for expressive phrasing, silky sustain, and punchy blues articulation.
Key Specs:
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Model: Fender Custom Shop Robert Cray Stratocaster
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Year: 2002
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Finish: Violet – rare and stunning
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Body: Select Alder
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Neck: Maple, ’60s “C” profile – comfortable and familiar
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Fingerboard: Rosewood,
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Frets: 21 medium jumbo
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Bridge: Hardtail (non-tremolo) – incredible sustain, rock-solid tuning
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Pickups: Custom Shop Robert Cray Signature Single-Coils
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Controls: Master Volume, 2 Tone knobs, 5-way selector
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Tuners: Vintage-style Gotoh
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Made in: USA, Fender Custom Shop
Tone & Feel
This guitar sings with rich clarity and bell-like highs, thanks to the hardtail bridge and hand-wound pickups. It has the smooth, articulate tone that defines Robert Cray’s sound — ideal for blues, soul, funk, or any style that demands nuance and dynamic range.
The neck is effortless to play, with a rosewood board that feels both fast and substantial. Sustain is exceptional — this Strat holds notes like a semi-hollow, with the responsiveness of a Custom Shop build.
Condition
In excellent condition with only minimal signs of use for a 20+ year-old instrument. Well cared for, recently cleaned and professionally set up. Electronics are dead-quiet and fully functional. Frets have plenty of life. Truly a boutique-quality Strat that’s stage- and studio-ready.
Included:
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Original Custom Shop Tweed Case
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COA (Certificate of Authenticity)
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Case candy (strap, cable, manual, etc. if available)
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Fresh setup + strings
Why This Guitar?
The Robert Cray Custom Shop Strat is a sleeper in Fender’s artist lineup — understated, elegant, and tonally powerful. Add in the rare Violet finish, USA Custom Shop build, and pristine condition, and you’ve got a collector-grade instrument that’s still built to be played hard.
🎸 Play the blues the way Robert Cray intended — clear, smooth, and full of soul.