FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO JOE'S VINTAGE GUITARS in Mesa, AZ with any questions, or to chat about the instrument.

Up for sale is a stunning, highly vibrant 1968 Fender Stratocaster in its original factory Custom Color Candy Apple Red finish. This guitar has been wonderfully cared for over its life and remains a clean, well-preserved player’s instrument that presents beautifully.

The finish is 100% original, displaying the correct factory gold undercoat characteristic of this specific late-60s era, along with the telltale, untouched neck pocket shadow. The body is outfitted with its original hardware throughout, including the original bridge, tremolo block, neck plate, strap buttons, and original pickguard.

As a guitar that was actively enjoyed by a player, it features a few minor, practical player modifications:

• A second string tree was added to the headstock.
• The original 3-way switch was upgraded to a 5-way switch for instant access to those coveted, hollow "in-between" positions.
• Additional ground wires were added across the backs of the potentiometers, and the aluminum shield behind the pickguard was removed at that time.
• The original F-style tuners are currently installed and fit neatly without any enlarged post holes. The guitar previously had a different set of tuners mounted (likely mini-Schallers), leaving one small visible mounting hole on the back of the headstock beneath the low E tuner.

The electronics feature the original pickups paired with original pots dated to 1966—a completely correct and standard factory occurrence for 1968 Strats, as Fender used up their massive inventory of 1966 CTS pots for several years.

One of the most unique and desirable features of this particular Stratocaster is its rare factory "A" width neck stamp. Unlike the standard "B" neck width (1 5/8"), this "A" neck features a slimmer 1.48" nut width with a distinct taper. It feels incredible in the hand—allowing for comfortable chord wrapping and effortless thumb-over technique in the lower positions, while tapering smoothly into a broader 1.95" profile at the 12th fret. Coupled with its lightweight 7.29 lbs build, the guitar feels incredibly fast, nimble, and dynamic.

Tone-wise, this '68 delivers everything you want from a late-60s gray-bottom pickup Stratocaster. It is bright, glassy, and articulate with snappy attack, crystalline highs, and a tight, punchy low end. Plugged into a tube amp, the pickups produce a woody, resonant acoustic chime that instantly breaks into a searing, harmonic-rich overdrive when pushed.

Neck Dimensions:

• Nut Width: 1.48"
• 12th Fret Width: 1.95"
• Depth at 1st Fret: 0.81"
• Depth at 12th Fret: 0.89"
• Weight: 7.29 lbs

Includes the original black Fender hardshell case. The case is fully functional and closes securely, though it is missing one exterior latch.

At Joe’s Vintage Guitars, your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind every instrument we sell, and we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. That’s why we offer a 7-day return policy with no restocking fee. Take a full week to inspect, play, and fall in love with your new guitar. If for any reason it isn’t the right fit, simply return it in the same condition for a full refund—no hidden fees, no hassle. We know that buying a vintage instrument is a big decision, and we’re committed to making the process as comfortable and transparent as possible. Shop with peace of mind knowing that every guitar from Joe’s Vintage Guitars is backed by honest service and years of expertise.