Bay Area Vintage Guitars is pleased to present this exceptional 1966 Fender Stratocaster in its original 3-Tone Sunburst finish, offered from the Brad Gillis Collection.

This is an outstanding example of a completely original mid-1966 Fender Stratocaster. Featuring its original September 1966 "B" neck, matching grey-bottom pickups, original electronics, original nitrocellulose finish, and classic transition-era appointments, this Strat represents one of the most desirable CBS-era vintage Fender guitars available today.

Weighing an ideal 7.5 lbs, this Strat has all of the characteristics collectors seek. The original lacquer finish exhibits beautiful natural checking and playwear throughout, accompanied by honest edge wear earned over sixty years. Nothing appears artificial or excessive, just the kind of authentic vintage aging that makes original Fender guitars so desirable.

This guitar retains its original grey-bottom pickups and untouched electronics. The pickups produce everything expected from a great mid-'60s Strat: articulate highs, woody mids, glassy cleans, and the unmistakable in-between "quack" that has made vintage Stratocasters legendary.

The neck is dated 13 SEP 66 B, confirming a September 1966 production date with the desirable standard "B" width neck measuring approximately 1 5/8" at the nut. The neck is comfortable, straight, and paired perfectly with the lightweight alder body.

Finding a 1966 Stratocaster that remains this original—with its original finish, pickups, wiring, hardware, and no evidence of refinishing or routing—is becoming increasingly difficult. This is an exceptional vintage Fender equally suited for the serious collector or professional player.

Specifications

• Year: 1966
• Make: Fender
• Model: Stratocaster
• Finish: Original 3-Tone Sunburst Nitrocellulose Lacquer
• Body: Alder
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Veneer Rosewood
• Neck Stamp: 13 SEP 66 B
• Serial Number: 162280
• Scale Length: 25.5"
• Frets: 21
• Nut Width: 1 5/8"
• Fingerboard Radius: 7.25"
• Neck Profile: Medium C
• Weight: 7.5 lbs
• Pickups: Three Original Grey Bottom Fender Single Coils
• Pickup Readings: Neck: 6.08 | Middle: 5.82 | Bridge: 7.20
• Pickup Dates:
• • Neck: August 1966
  • Middle: Original August 1966 Grey Bottom Pickup (date partially obscured)
  • Bridge: August 16, 1966
• Electronics: Original
• Bridge: Original Fender Synchronized Tremolo
• Tuners: Original Kluson Double-Line
• Neck Plate: Original "F" Plate
• Case: Non-Fender Black Hardshell Case

Condition

The original finish displays beautiful lacquer checking throughout with honest play wear, buckle rash, and edge wear consistent with a well-preserved and well-played vintage instrument. There are no signs of refinishing visible (blacklight photos available), and the guitar retains outstanding originality throughout.

This Strat has clearly been cared for over the decades while remaining an instrument that has been enjoyed.

Please review all photos carefully, as they are an important part of the description and accurately represent the guitar's condition.

Why Buy From Bay Area Vintage Guitars?

Bay Area Vintage Guitars specializes in authentic vintage and collectible guitars, amps, and gear with a focus on originality, accurate representation, and player-focused instruments. Every instrument we sell is carefully inspected and evaluated in detail.

We are players and collectors ourselves, and we understand how important trust and transparency are when purchasing vintage instruments online.

Shipping

All guitars are professionally packed with extreme care and fully insured. We ship promptly and communicate throughout the process.

Please note that vintage guitars may require minor setup adjustments due to climate and shipping conditions. This is normal for vintage instruments.