1963 Fender Stratocaster - Lake Placid Blue

1963 Fender Stratocaster – Lake Placid Blue – Player Grade – Original Pickups & Electronics

A fantastic opportunity to own a genuine pre-CBS Strat that was built to be played. This 1963 Hardtail Stratocaster wears a very old Lake Placid Blue refinish and retains its original pickups, electronics, neck finish, and most of its original hardware.

If you’d like a detailed, in-hand description, feel free to contact The Reverend Guitar Man shop line. More photos on the website.

Condition & Originality

• Very old Lake Placid Blue refinish.
• Original black-bottom pickups.
• Original electronics.
• Solder touch-up on the volume pot for the ground wires only. The pickup leads appear untouched.
• Original neck finish.
• Original tuners. One tuner is missing approximately half of its string post, but it still functions properly.
• Original frets.

The pickguard has had the neck and middle pickup openings widened by a previous owner. It’s an obvious modification and wasn’t particularly well executed, but it is purely cosmetic and does not affect the guitar’s performance.

The original frets show normal wear but still have plenty of life. Keep in mind that early-’60s Fender frets were low from the factory and are noticeably smaller than modern fretwire. Some players may eventually prefer a refret, while others will appreciate the original playing feel. The guitar plays well as it sits.

Hardtail Stratocasters remain one of the most underrated pre-CBS Fenders. The fixed bridge gives this guitar outstanding sustain, a quick attack, and excellent note definition while retaining the unmistakable sound of its original 1963 pickups.

The sale includes the original Fender case. If you don’t need the case, I’m happy to discuss a lower price.

I ship worldwide. I do not falsify customs forms, so please do not ask me to do that. I am happy to ship to a forwarding service but make sure you put their address on the order when you purchase the guitar.