Road Runner

Originally designed by Trev Wilkinson, the Eclat single-cut gets a makeover for 2023 and a signature tie-up with Brit virtuoso Paul Rose

- Dave Burrluck

In one of those where the heck does time go?' moments, we realise that next year it will be the 30th anniversary of Fret-King's launch at the 1994 NAMM Show. In fact, 30 years ago the original designer, Trev Wilkinson - who sold the brand to JHS in 2007 but still provides the pickups here - was putting his ideas into practice as he prepared for that launch.

Fret-King has had quite a history since then. We've seen models made in the UK, Europe, Korea and most recently India where the latest 2023 collection is made, and, from this writer's perspective at least, relative affordability has always been key to the range, which playfully adapts the classics - the epitome of inspired-by, not copycat design. Back in issue 491 we took a look at one of our favourite Fret-King designs, the Elise, alongside another stalwart the Country Squire. Now it's time to reacquaint ourselves with the longrunning Eclat, which also introduces a tie-up with UK guitarist Paul Rose.