Notice the trem patent clearly shows the trem in float possition. Conclusive proof that their designed to float and that flat setting is just wrong. (only kidding, ive a strat with the trem set flat).

That's movement in the direction I was looking for, 53 Strat. But I still need more.

Once again, I want to reiterate that Im not calling you a liar or trying to discredit you or anything "bad". But Im a naturally jaded and skeptical guy who beleives people are inherently evil and not trustworthy. Plus, I can only imagine how one would validate that yours is, irrefutably, a 1953 Strat body. Mayube there is really no way to confirm it. But paraphrasing a book doesnt make yours authentic, to me anyway.

Let me play devils advocate and I hope you can destroy my objections. for our discussion, I'll focus on the body, the bridge and trem as they are the only pieces you say are 1953.

Regarding the body....there are several guys in this forum that have the skills to make a body just like yours. Niki, for one, has demonstrated some pretty compelling woodworking skills. If there is a book on the subject, there is probably design details somewhere. I would trust that Niki could manufacture a body that looks just like yours, including a fine relic-job and other patina. We could have this exact same debate about the validity of his. Maybe there is some Fender employee, luthier guru or Antique Roadshow guitar master who can authenticate a body this way. I suspect that's what it takes, actually....a series of "professional opinions" from reputable and noted experts. Until you tell me you have that, its just another 3 piece body.

Now the bridge and trem may be easier to authenticate and clearly the book would be a useful tool in this case. Casting those bits and pieces in correct demension is not something a common fraudster would or likely could do, if for no other reason than the cost. Even looking at the pictures from the book, I can more easily believe your claim about those pieces.

I would really enjoy learning more about this. Id love to know you actually have what you say, just because it would be cool! But I'd also enjoy learning how these mysteries are solved.

Hi TheMagician: you mean you haven't heard about my famous Strat?

I'm offended.

(Joke.)

Cheers - C

CV made its because im in the uk but i cant see those patents. The picture just doesnt show up.