When it comes to this part in particular, it really doesn't matter what you put on. A tip is a tip, right? For me, it is a BIG deal, especially since I went through the trouble of finding the pickup covers and knobs. It's only a good reason to compliment them with the appropriate tip!
Too bad the only person who has gotten close to but still far from the original selector switch tip is Montreux. My only resort was to buy an ACTUAL 70's selector switch tip. This specific tip was bought through Ed Matthews (www.eddievegas.com) who sells a TON of original Fender parts as well as other guitar parts and amps. This tip was in great condition, as well as matching in color with the knobs and pickup covers (an A+ in staying in color). The year for this tip came off a 1970 Strat.
This tip has a slightly rounded top than the current tips Fender offers. It also comes with one slot for the switch to fit in.
You can note the difference in tip shapes with the photos above. The left tip is a Montreux '62 tip; The center tip is an original 1970 tip, the right tip is the Genuine Fender standard tip. Notice how the standard tip has two slots instead of one, like all the other tips. This is due to different switches used in production; either for Oak or CRL switches. Imported switches use a different tip altogether. One issue with this tip is its looseness when it is installed. I'll ask the guitar tech to find a way to hold it without creating any permanent damage to the tip and switch.
What is it that requires more plastic? I know that it's something that swings? Does it have to do with an arm? Yes! The Tremolo Arm Tip! Ohh yeah, there's an important post for that final piece of plastic. Off to write some more posts and why this is the most important piece of plastic on the Black Strat (actually, only important in playability, nothing close the the black pickguard!). You'll be surprised as I was in discovering the difference!
David Sarmiento
