Fred Stuart – Guitar Builder | Stuart Fine Custom Instruments

Born in 1947 in Klamath Falls, Oregon, Fred Stuart is widely recognized as one of the true masters of vintage-style electric guitar building. He began his journey in guitar repair in the early 1970s after meeting Paul Barth, president of National Guitars. Stuart later joined Fender Musical Instruments, where he gained hands-on experience across multiple departments. In 1987, he became a founding member of the Fender Custom Shop, working alongside pioneers like J.W. Black, Gene Baker, and John English. Rising to the rank of Senior Master Builder, Stuart earned the nickname “Mr. Telecaster” for his unmatched expertise in recreating and evolving Fender’s most iconic model. His tenure at Fender was marked by historically significant contributions, including the 40th Anniversary Telecaster, the Snake Head Telecaster replica, the Danny Gatton and Clarence White signature models, and other standout projects like the Pine Esquire, Time Machine Series Will Ray, and the Production B-Bender. Stuart eventually departed Fender, citing differences in creative direction, and set out on his own path with fellow builders Gene Baker and Alan Hamel.

In the early 2000s, Stuart co-founded A&F Custom Guitar Services and launched the Rock it Tone series. By 2003, he introduced his own label, Stuart Fine Custom Instruments, debuting the “Black Hawk” and “Silver Hawk” models—Tele-style guitars that reflected his personal vision while honoring vintage traditions. Every instrument, from the woodwork to the pickups and hardware, is handmade using techniques faithful to the original methods of the Fender golden era. Revered for achieving tones nearly indistinguishable from early Fenders, Stuart has also crafted CBS-era Jaguars, Jazzmasters, Thinlines, and more. His instruments are sought after by discerning players and collectors alike. Known not only for his technical mastery but also for his deep connection to Fender’s history, Fred Stuart continues to build with a philosophy rooted in authenticity, tone, and the legacy passed down directly from Leo Fender himself.