I haven't played an Am Deluxe, but I have an ultra that you could say was its predecessor... i.e., the fanciest production model guitar Fender made at the time. I love it dearly, but it is outclassed in every department by my CS '66 relic. It's hard to quantify the difference, but it's real. Just saying that the materials and craftsmanship are superior doesn't really cover it; there's more evidence of the intent of the makers... someone -- a highly skilled someone -- picked out that neck, and decided that it would go best with that particular body, and thought to some extent about different types of wear... I know that they didn't sit for hours stroking their chin or go seek inspiration on a windy peak, but their judgment as a master of their craft came into play. For me, that's the Custom Shop difference. My ultra is a superb guitar by any measure, but the playing experience swims into tighter focus on the CS and I'm a happier musician for it.

I'm not suggesting that going for an Am Deluxe would be "settling" for anything. They're pretty seductive guitars, and I'd get one in a flash if funds permitted. There was a Montego black one with anodised guard selling near me not long ago, and that was as gorgeous an instrument as I've ever seen. But to play... I don't think you can top the Custom Shop. That's why it exists.

Apologies for what sounds like advertising copy... heh. But I do love that CS guitar. Perhaps you can tell.

As far as appreciation goes... I think they're much the same as any other Fender. If you buy new, hang onto it for ten years and you'll probably get a bit more than your money back (at the minimum). Secondhand, after that amount of time it'll most likely be worth twice what you paid. Obviously a masterbuilt will appreciate, but they're more expensive to begin with. If something happens such as the master in question passing away, the value goes up. But as you've said... you want a keeper. I'm of the same mind. It's nice to feel that your cherished axe is growing in value, but it's not that important -- if you sell it, you won't have it any more (obvious, I know). If you want an investment, track down a Smith-era Strat in a custom colour... heh.

Thankyou mondo, you explain everything I wanted to know. The montego black with anodized pickguard is the dlx that has me in awww. If I can come across a closet classic cs in my price range I am sure there will be no keeping me from it now. If not, that montego deluxe is the bees knees.
Thanks again
J

I guess the deluxe is just as tempting as the CS. I say- tell that little angel on your left shoulder to listen to the devil brother from another mother "just go for the custom shop" I mean, if you get the deluxe- you will enjoy it a lot. But that nagging thought will haunt you- "why didnt I save a little more and go for the CS?"

A deluxe is the next best thing to the custom shop.. a custom deluxe is the next step up- Im not too sure if you think the price jump is worth it but in 20years it will be desirable.

Moral of the story- go with your gut.

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I am beginning to realize just how little I actually know about cs's. All I know about are team built, and master builts. Where do custom deluxe's fall in line? I should do some homework on this before I commit aye? Also, if it is not a relic, is it considered a nos? Are closet classics a replica of landmark strat years, or does it mean it is unreliced? So many terms here... Thanks again for any insight.
J

NOS is if the guitar was purchased & brought back to the present day in a time machine.

Closet classic- a guitar thats well looked after- played onece in a blue moon but has the odd ding and hairline fractures on the finish here and there- but nothing obvious. Looks great condition considering age

Relic- think of a strat thats had a hard life- gigs, jamm sessions etc... and the elements have gotten to it over the years

All are true to the original build quality and specs of the day

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So if I wanted one that I could put the first ding or scratch on, what would I ask for? I don't mean an internship at the road worn factory.

NOS.

I think roadworns all look the same. put two together and the markings are identical- and they are ugly. Relics on the other hand are different with each guitar.

Id buy a closet classic- but thats me. Maybe you're the type who will look after your guitar and not mark it?

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I am the origonal owner of a 99 am std strat. I have always been pretty finatic about making my friends take there belt buckles off before playing it just to put my point of view in perspective. If and when it does get dented or scratched, it will be a sad day for me. If lets say, a friend, or even my brother damaged my instrument out of carelessness, it would be a long road to forgiveness. So I guess I am the safe type.

The main difference i noticed after about 3months was that when playing my CS i wasnt compensating for anything in my playing that i do with my production guitars. I find i'm very specific on right hand/finger attack in relation to hand possition and left finger placement. I didnt have to even consider fretting technique or pick attack on the CS it falls into place. All my guitars are setup the same. I go to excruciating lengths to make that happen. The fret/pick ease is just one of those subtle things that make the guitar worth paying for.

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No no and no

If you could afford either, go to the music store and play both until you've ultimately decided. As in, go there with the intention of leaving with a guitar, regardless as to how long it takes to decide. At closing time, leave with your guitar. Then, never look back. Just play it until it looks like SRV's number one. Isn't that the point anyway? Best of luck to you in your search, and congrats regardless as to what you get.

This one is a no brainer the only thing making me hesitate is that you are talking resale value before you have the guitar.If you are a house player with one other guitar jump on the custom shop. If you are in a band and gigging steady get the deluxe. Both are pro level guitars but if you are just a casual player more than likely your guitar should look the same ten years from now. If you are gigging I dont care how careful you are dings will happen. I have a nice amount of guitars and take great care of them but my two mane players have scars. Nothing brutal but things happen. Sound and playability wise you cant beat a custom shop guitar they are the cream of the crop. I almost pulled the trigger on a Gilmour this year but went for two top of the line players instead. It would of been my first Fender custom shop but the other deal enticed me more. But at 47 I am ready to grab one as I dont gig no more right now I cant even play but when I am it will be great to lay some tracks down with it. I would say for the price of the custom you are talking about to scratch the deluxe and get it. Even with some wear on it in 10 or 20 years you will get back more than you paid. I have said this a lot but in all my years I never lost money on a Fender guitar and you will definetlly not on a custom shop.

I think I got it. It's just time to go fall in love. It will be a month or so, but I will follow up when I chose and purchase the guitar.
Thanks again for all the expert insight.
J

For slightly more cash investment, you can get a Custom Classic Strat, and I have played a few of these extensively. Absolutely beautiful instruments, especially the Ash strats. Go for the Custom Shop!

Ditto- Ive only lost money in a mim standard. I think if anything, I will stand to profit if I sold them now. Im a very carefull buyer- and I know a deal when I see one. I will never loose money on my two strats for two reasons-

The price I pay- I never pay retail or market value for anything I buy. Pay below price- negotiate.- even if you have to travel to purchase. I mean, in my country your talking about a CS thats around $4-7K- for a guitar.In all seriousness, Id feel far more comfortable paying that for a used car

I also look after my guitars- in ten years, they will look the same as they do today., and I will never never sell them.

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well first i must say go for the CS! But both are amazing piece of art. The real deal is play both. If one of these two fit you best....well thats your answer. follow your instints....not what we say...
may your brain lie to you, but your ears and hands not...hahahaha.

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"music make peolpe smart..."