1965 Fender Stratocaster – 3-Tone Sunburst

A fantastic example of a mid-1960s Fender Stratocaster, dating from the highly sought-after transitional period surrounding Fender’s sale to CBS in early 1965, although a lot of people deem the official transition period to be 1966.

Finished in its ORIGINAL 3-Tone Sunburst and nitrocellulose lacquer, this beautiful example retains its original finish and has never undergone any body repairs or modifications. The body still exhibits the original nail holes beneath the pickguard, consistent with its 1964 manufacturing date. They used to have this method before drying the body paint on sticks … 

The finish remains in great overall condition, with only a few areas of wear, mainly around the sides.

The one-piece maple neck is dated December 1964 and features the characteristic transitional-era construction, with a rosewood fingerboard, pearl dot position markers (something they did in the spring of ‘64) and clay side dots. The original nitrocellulose neck finish remains untouched, with no overspray or touch-ups, and retains its distinctive Fender Transition logo but with the smaller and more desirable headstock.

The neck has been professionally refretted to a high standard, using larger fret wire than originally fitted, providing excellent playability.

Electronics comprise three original greyback pickups, with CTS potentiometers dating to the first week of 1965. The guitar is running a 5 way selector switch but does come with its original 3-way selector as factory specification, this can be easily changed back by the next owner. A a treble bleed circuit has been added to the volume pot but again, this is an easily reversible modification and does not compromise the guitar’s originality.

All hardware is correct for a transitional-era Stratocaster, including the original single-line Kluson tuners, 3-ply green nitrate pickguard, original tremolo block and bridge saddles.

Accompanied by its correct period black tolex Fender case with black leather ends and burnt orange interior.

A superb and increasingly collectible example of a transitional-era Stratocaster, offering all the character, feel and unmistakable tone of a genuine mid-60s Fender.

Serial Number: L6004

This is a real investment guitar that we are very pleased to offer for sale!

If you have any serious enquiries, require any more photographs or want to arrange a viewing at our store then please get in touch.