Wow...

[Strat Avenger]

 

[Verne Bunsen]

I’m not sure how I feel about that. I mean, to be fair, non-Fender guitars of that shape are typically referred to as “S-Style”, and that shape is only generic and ubiquitous because of the popularity and success of the Strat. So I get where Fender is coming from. But this definitely seems like a bit of legal tee-crossing that should have been done many decades ago. The genie is kind of out of the bottle. Whatever may be right or wrong, I suspect this ruling won’t hold up to much pressure.

 

[Spud]

Maybe in the future to manufacture S tyles will require a licensing fee be paid to the mighty F!

 

[mayfly]

just as long as it does not affect Telecasters, I'm good.

 

[Don O]

I watched that earlier today. I wonder what was trademarked? Body shape only? Does it include pickup layout (and variations)? Etc…

I read they only won the lawsuit because the other side did not show up. Hmmm…

 

[TBurst Std]

Isn’t statute of limitations in play? The F has allowed obvious Ss other than licensed for what now, 40-50 years ?

First electric I played was a Crestwood S type back in the late 70s. The body and neck were pretty much spot on. Actually it was not bad playing or sounding. Was a neighbors. Tried it against a late 70s Strat back then and I preferred the Crestwood. Eventually my neighbor wanted it back. At that time I had my 1st LP. I knew I also wanted Fender tones. Grabbed a used 69 Tele that had been Bigsby snakebit and undone. Got it for $200. Excellent Tele. I’d still have it if it wasn’t stolen in the early 80s. It was a pale blonde, white guard, maple neck with the threaded saddles.

 

[Hodgo]

Isn’t statute of limitations in play? The F has allowed obvious Ss other than licensed for what now, 40-50 years ?

That’s what the video talks about. This particular German court appears to disagree with the US interpretation Fender received in 2004

 

[Hodgo]

Which means our dealers friends at Warmoth are likely okay