Welcome to Vintage Gear! Up for grabs is an absolute time capsule: an all-original, late-1965 Fender Stratocaster in a stunning 3-Color Sunburst finish.

This guitar represents the highly sought-after "transition" period right after the CBS acquisition, blending the magic of the pre-CBS golden era with the distinct features that defined the mid-to-late '60s. It has honest, gorgeous playwear and the unmistakable resonance of a guitar that has aged perfectly over the last six decades.

The Details & Authentication:

We’ve fully inspected and authenticated this Strat inside and out. Here is what you are looking at:

* Neck Stamp: 2SEP65B (Stratocaster, September 1965, standard 1 5/8" nut width). The neck profile is a supremely comfortable mid-60s "C" shape that practically plays itself.

* Pickups: The original grey-bottom pickups are intact and dated 9-17-65, perfectly matching the neck. They deliver that iconic, glassy, bell-like Stratocaster chime that you simply cannot replicate with modern reissues.

* Hardware: Features the correct Transition-era Fender logo (thick gold with black outline), original Kluson tuners, and the stamped "F" neck plate with an authentic 111xxx serial number.

* Finish: The 3-Color Sunburst is 100% original. We’ve included blacklight (UV) photos in the listing, showing the uniform greenish-yellow glow that confirms the presence of the original nitrocellulose lacquer with no modern touch-ups or overspray. It features beautiful, natural finish checking that gives it incredible character.

* Electronics: Original wiring harness and pots. Untouched and ready to sing.

Condition:

This guitar is in excellent vintage condition. It shows the authentic, natural wear of a well-loved and professionally played instrument—minor nicks, dings, and the beautiful nitro checking mentioned above. Structurally, it is rock solid. The frets have plenty of life left, the truss rod functions perfectly, and it is currently set up for effortless playability.

What’s Included:

This package is as complete as it gets. It ships safely nestled in its original Fender hardshell case (with the classic orange plush interior). We are also including the original "case candy":

* Original "Ashtray" bridge cover

* Original tremolo arm

* Extra tremolo springs

* Vintage leather strap

This isn't just a collector's piece; it's a remarkably inspiring player's grade instrument. Guitars from this specific window of 1965 with this level of documented originality and completeness don't sit on the market for long.

Please review all photos carefully, as they are part of the description. Feel free to reach out with any questions, request specific photo angles, or just talk guitars.

Shipping: Will be packed with extreme care, fully insured, and shipped requiring a signature upon delivery.