1957 Fender Stratocaster – All Original – 10/57 – Serial #18688 This is an original 1957 Fender Stratocaster in two-tone sunburst, serial number 18688, complete with its original tweed case.   There are three things that truly define this guitar:

1. It is an exceptionally straight and substantiated October 1957 Stratocaster with original finish, electronics, hardware, and case (professionally refretted with period-correct frets).
2. It is, without question, one of the best-sounding Stratocasters I have ever played. It delivers the quintessential late-’50s Fender Strat tone.
3. The appearance and vibe are extraordinary. This is authentic, earned wear from decades of real playing. Guitars do not wear like this unless they are exceptional instruments.

Originality & Condition This guitar remains all original with the exception of a professional refret, which feel, look and play authentically. Under blacklight inspection (see photos), the finish is completely consistent across the neck and body. There is no evidence of overspray or touch-up.   The interior cavities, neck pocket, wiring, and solder joints are untouched and correct. The original pickguard has a minor split near one screw hole, common for guards of this era.   The pickups retain their original windings and measure between 5.63K – 5.75K ohms (textbook 1957 output). Pot codes, neck date (10-57), and body cavity markings (10-57) all align correctly with the serial number.   The lacquer finish exhibits age-appropriate checking throughout. The body is lightweight and resonant.   Neck & Playability The maple neck is straight and exceptionally comfortable. The fingerboard shows heavy authentic wear, along with lacquer wear on the back of the neck — none of which affects playability. The refret was done properly and allows the guitar to perform at its full potential. There is minor fret-end feel along the edges due to natural seasonal expansion and contraction over decades, but this does not affect play.   Case The original tweed case is included. It shows road wear consistent with the guitar but remains structurally solid and correct.   Notes This is not a guitar that sat in a case unplayed for decades. It is a real, played, October 1957 Stratocaster that has been used for what it was built to do.   It has the tone, feel, resonance, and visual presence that only decades of continuous playing can produce. The wear tells the story, and the sound confirms it.   --------------   Please review all photos and video carefully. Additional photos are available upon request.   The guitar will be professionally packaged and fully insured for shipment. Shipping available outside the Continental U.S.   Please feel free to reach out with any questions. (Stand in photos not included.)   The environment is important to us. At Golden Pickups, our packaging will be made of recycled materials and recyclable materials. We use the following recyclable packing material or recycled packing material:

• Cardboard boxes for larger items or recycled-paper padded envelopes for small part or flat items. We do not use plastic envelopes or plastic containers.
• Paper packing tape is used to seal boxes . Clear packing tape (plastic) may be used in a limited way to join pieces of bubble wrap or for affixing a label.
• Kraft paper for padding and space/void filling : is made from 100% recycled paper and is fully recyclable.
• Biodegradable peanuts for padding : are made from organic starch and decomposes in water leaving no toxic waste. Simply dissolve in water or place loosely in a garbage bag since they will decompose in a landfill.
• Recycled green bubble wrap , that is made from up to 40% recycled content with up to 20% from post-consumer sources.