Fender Bullet Deluxe with Rosewood Fretboard 1981 - 1982 - Ivory
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DESCRIPTION
An Exceptional Example of Early 1980s American Fender CraftsmanshipUp for sale is a truly remarkable 1981 Fender Bullet Deluxe from the first year of production, representing a pivotal moment in Fender history. This guitar is not just a player's instrument—it's a piece of Fender heritage designed by the legendary John Page (who later co-founded Suhr Guitars).
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The Fender Bullet Deluxe was conceived as Fender's response to Japanese manufacturers entering the market, designed to offer affordable American-made instruments without compromising quality. These early USA Bullets (1981-1982) are increasingly recognized as collectible instruments from the late CBS/early pre-CBS transition era reverb.comen.wikipedia.org.CONDITION & UNIQUENESSThis particular example stands out for several reasons:✓ Museum-Quality Preservation: Excellent vintage condition with minimal play wear ✓ Complete Package: Includes original Fender hard case and period-correct original strap—an exceptionally rare find ✓ Natural Patina: The original ivory/white finish has developed a stunning natural butterscotch/cream aging over 40+ years. This nitrocellulose lacquer aging is highly sought after by collectors and players alike—it cannot be artificially replicated and adds significant value ✓ All Original: Unmodified, authentic vintage specimen
SPECIFICATIONS
- Body: Solid hardwood (single cutaway Telecaster-style)
- Neck: Maple bolt-on with rosewood fretboard
- Frets: 21 frets
- Scale Length: 25.5" (standard Fender)
- Pickups: 2x Fender Bullet single-coil pickups with closed covers
- Bridge: String-through-body hardtail for enhanced sustain
- Controls: Volume, Tone, 3-way selector
- Finish: Original ivory (naturally aged to butterscotch blonde)
- Hardware: Chrome
- Country of Origin: USA (Fullerton, California)
- Year: 1981 (E-series serial number)
SOUND & PLAYABILITY
The Bullet Deluxe delivers classic Fender tone with exceptional clarity and bite. The single-coil pickups produce crystalline cleans and sharp attacks perfect for blues, rock, country, and vintage pop. The string-through-body bridge design enhances sustain and tuning stability. The slim "C" profile neck provides fast, comfortable playability.
This guitar's exceptional completeness (original case + strap), excellent condition, and desirable natural finish aging justify the premium collector price
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 1981 Fender Bullet Deluxe guitar
- Original Fender hard case
- Original period Fender strap
- Case candy (if available)
SHIPPING
Carefully packaged and insured shipping available worldwide. Local pickup welcome.
This is a no-excuses, collector-grade example of one of Fender's most underrated vintage instruments. The combination of completeness, condition, and natural aging makes this a museum-quality piece that will only appreciate in value.
This item is sold As-Described
This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.
| Listed | 2 months ago |
|---|---|
| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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