Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster

The Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster is one of the best-known signature models from this long-established American manufacturer and has long been considered a classic among modern Fender guitars. Developed in close collaboration with Eric Clapton, this model combines the unmistakable character of a classic Stratocaster with electronics specifically tailored to his musical vision.

The history of this signature model dates back to the 1980s. Eric Clapton had played his famous black Stratocaster—known as “Blackie”—for many years and eventually began searching for an instrument that combined the familiar sound and feel of a classic Stratocaster with additional tonal possibilities. In collaboration with Fender, this led to the creation of the Eric Clapton Stratocaster, which was officially unveiled in 1988 and was among the manufacturer’s first signature models.

The Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster offered here dates from 1998 and was manufactured in the U.S. Particularly attractive is the classic Olympic White finish, which has developed a beautiful, slightly creamy hue over the years. Combined with the white pickguard and the one-piece appearance of the maple neck, the guitar has a distinctly elegant vintage look.

A distinctive feature of this older model is its three original Fender Gold Lace Sensor pickups. These pickups were a signature feature of early Eric Clapton Stratocasters before Fender later switched to Vintage Noiseless pickups. The Gold Lace Sensor pickups are known for their clear, balanced tone, dynamic response, and comparatively low noise.

They deliver the classic, bell-like Stratocaster tones with brilliant highs, transparent mids, and beautiful definition of individual notes. Especially in the middle positions, they produce the characteristic, slightly hollow Stratocaster tones that are ideal for blues, funk, and clean rhythm parts.

However, the Eric Clapton Stratocaster owes its exceptional tonal versatility not only to the pickups, but above all to its special electronics. The active mid-boost system allows for a significant boost in the midrange and, when needed, gives the instrument considerably more punch and presence. This makes it possible to produce not only classic Stratocaster sounds but also powerful, singing lead tones that can evoke the character of a humbucker.

This circuit is complemented by the TBX tone control, which allows you to further shape the tone. Together with the 5-way pickup selector switch, this creates an exceptionally wide range of sounds, ranging from transparent clean tones to warm, sustain-rich blues and rock sounds.

In terms of playability as well, this model has been meticulously tailored to Eric Clapton’s specifications. The maple neck feels great in the hand and offers a comfortable, familiar playing experience. The vintage-style tremolo is locked in accordance with the classic Clapton specification and is thus used as a fixed bridge. This promotes stable tuning and ensures direct transmission of string vibrations.

It is precisely the combination of the older Gold Lace Sensor hardware, the active Clapton electronics, and the Olympic White finish—which has aged beautifully over the years—that makes this 1998 Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster a particularly interesting specimen. It combines the classic Stratocaster character with a unique range of tones and the unmistakable playing feel of this legendary signature model.

Condition

The guitar is in very good condition and has been exceptionally well maintained. Over the years, the Olympic White finish has developed an attractive, slightly creamy hue that perfectly complements the classic look of this model.

There are only minimal signs of wear in the form of fine micro-scratches. There is no major damage or noticeable wear and tear.

The frets are also in very good condition and show only minimal wear. All of the electronics—including the active mid-boost circuit, the TBX tone control, and all pickup positions—work perfectly.

Overall, this 1998 Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster is in excellent condition, both visually and technically.

The original Fender case is included with the purchase.

Setup & Playability

We carefully set up every guitar. We adjust the neck radius and string action to ensure that the guitar plays cleanly, comfortably, and without buzzing across the entire fretboard.

This Eric Clapton Stratocaster impresses with its exceptionally comfortable playability. The neck fits comfortably in the hand and, combined with the excellent string action, allows for effortless playing across the entire fretboard.

Specifications

Model: Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster
Year of manufacture: 1998
Origin: USA
Color: Olympic White
Body: Alder
Neck: Maple
Fretboard: Maple
Scale length: 648 mm
Nut width: approx. 42 mm
Pickups: 3 × Fender Gold Lace Sensor
Electronics: Active Mid-Boost
Tone Control: TBX Tone Control
Pickup Selector: 5-way switch
Bridge: Vintage-style tremolo, locked
Tuners: Vintage-style
Case: Original Fender case

Link to Fender

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