Since most of us fix or make guitars, we have probably heard something about the cease and desist letters Fender has sent out concerning the Stratocaster. I thought I would offer some thoughts. As always, caveat emptor.
There are three basic ways to protect intellectual property under Federal law. Patent, trademark, and copyright. Each protects different things, and has different underlying legal theories.
Lets begin with pate…
There is also a time limit to both Patents and Copyright (and Trademarks, though Trademarks can be renewed). Don't know how long they last in other countries, but Canada is normally 20 years. Copy…
I'm working on a Japanese Strat with a Kahler tremolo I've never seen before. I'm trying to find where the adjustment point for the saddle intonation is. The back side has openings for each string for... something. It's not an allen wrench, and it's not a screwdriver of any kind. The threads are 6/32" and when I tighten a screw into the holes, nothing happens. I haven't been able to find anything on google about this particular bridge.…
If I recognise this correctly, around the back of the guitar, deep up under the bridge you should be just about able to make out six little hex head screws. These lock the saddles in place. If you loo…