Probett Rocket III, 2017

Condition: this Rocket III is in excellent condition with no issues.

I've been a fan of Damian Probett's work for years and have played several of his guitars, but this 2017 Rocket III was my first encounter with this particular model. What Damian has done here is create a thoughtful recipe of two guitar build worlds—a boutique builder who found the sweet spot between Leo and Kalamazoo.

The concept is brilliant in its simplicity: take that familiar Strat-like body shape and six-in-line headstock with vibrato bridge, then marry it to a set neck construction and 24.625" scale length. The result feels immediately comfortable and familiar, yet somehow fresh. The soft V-neck carve has that substantial feel of a great vintage Gibson without any of the bulk that can slow you down.

The aged Aztec silver finish is righteous—stunning and warm against that tortoiseshell pickguard. Fit and finish are at the highest level throughout. This guitar is resonant and acoustically satisfying.

The pickup combination here tells an interesting story. The Bulldog A2 PAF in the bridge has that creamy, saturated tone you'd expect, but it's those Mojo gold foil pickups that really caught my attention. They have this distinctive midrange character that's neither Strat-bright nor P90-growly; something uniquely their own. The reverse Telecaster control layout took a moment to adjust to, but once you do, it opens up some genuinely musical combinations.

What impressed me most was the overall coherence of the instrument. Every component feels purposefully chosen rather than just spec'd for looks. The Gotoh locking tuners are rock solid, the stainless steel frets make bending effortless, and the Amazon rosewood fingerboard has the visual appeal of Brazilian rosewood. At just under eight pounds, it's perfectly balanced — no neck dive, no awkward weight distribution.

This RIII captures exactly what I appreciate about thoughtful guitar building. It's an instrument that rewards exploration, revealing new tonal possibilities the more time you spend with it.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.

ABOUT PROBETT GUITARS
Damian Probett has worked as a saddlemaker, carpenter, joiner, aircraft toolmaker, racing motorcycle chassis maker, racing motorcycle engine builder and tuner, guitar repairer and, of course, guitar maker. Damien is considered by many in the boutique world as one of the finest builders working today. Not to be missed if you're in any way, shape, or form a fan of the classic electric designs.