1966 Fender Stratocaster in Original Candy Apple Red – An Excellent Player with all the great mojo!

Bay Area Vintage Guitars is pleased to offer this 1966 Fender Stratocaster in its factory Candy Apple Red finish from the collection of Night Ranger guitarist Brad Gillis.

This is the real deal: original finish, pickups, electronics, and neck — not a refin, not a parts guitar. The color has aged beautifully and shows all the right wear, nicks, and dings (no abuse), which is a testament to how enjoyable it is to play.

Details:

• Original Candy Apple Red finish with Gold base coat
• Original grey-bottom pickups, electronics, and hardware (pots date to ’66)
• Neck is original with 13 May 1966 (B) stamp; professional refret for smooth, clean playability
• Updated bridge + saddles installed for performance and tuning stability
  (Original-style tone and feel are fully intact — no extra routing or modification)
• Original 3-way switch
• Includes an early 1960s Fender Hardshell Case (black tolex w/ orange interior) that shows its wear over the past ~59 years.
• Weight: 8 lbs 3 oz
• Nut width: 1.62"
• Neck depth at 1st fret: .82"
• Neck depth at 12th fret: .90"

This one plays exactly how you want a mid-60s Strat to play: lively, resonant, and responsive. The pickups have that classic glassy top, vocal midrange, and woody low end that the mid-60s sets are known for. It’s a player’s guitar that still counts as a collector's piece because it retains everything that makes this year so desirable.

If you’ve been hunting for an original ‘66 Strat in a desirable custom color (without the “museum tax”), this is your guitar!

Why Buy From Bay Area Vintage Guitars?
At Bay Area Vintage Guitars, we live for the stories these instruments tell. Our passion is fueled by a lifelong obsession with vintage guitars, the magic of classic amplifiers, and the endless pursuit of perfect tone; it’s about the fellowship we share with musicians and collectors like you who keep this history alive.

Important Note

Inventory & Availability: This instrument is listed on multiple platforms and may sell elsewhere before we can update this listing. To avoid disappointment, please message us to confirm availability before making an offer or purchase.

Condition & Photos: The accompanying photos depict the actual instrument for sale and are an integral part of the description. Please review them closely. This instrument is sold as-is.

Setup & Playability: We ensure every instrument is playable before it leaves our shop. However, playability is subjective, and factors such as shipping, climate changes, and personal preferences for action and string gauge will determine how the instrument feels in your hands. Please anticipate that a personalized setup by a luthier may be required upon arrival to match your specific tastes.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any specific questions before purchasing.

Shipping:

All items are packed with the utmost care and shipped fully insured.

Ships to the Continental U.S.