Product Description

1965 Fender Stratocaster

A fixed bridge example from one of the pivotal years in the evolution of the Stratocaster. The three toned burst on this one is still very vibrant and has great transition between colors, as opposed to the stark contrast seen on some later models. The three ply pickguard is the bright white of this era and the neck plate is an early example of the "F" stamp that was just being introduced around this time. The neck has the round laminated fretboard and pearl dots, which in conjunction with the small headstock and gold transition logo is a hallmark of this year of production. The serial number is 107957. It weighs in at 6 lbs 12 oz and the neck depths are .82" at the first fret to .96" at the twelfth fret.

This instrument is in remarkably good condition, with an equally surprising level of originality, given that Stratocasters were many guitarists main weapon of choice of the 60 years since this Strat's birth and they often show the subsequent wear and replacement of battered parts. The body shows a few scattered dings and light scratches, mainly relegated to the back of the instrument. None of the dings or scratches are through to the wood or particularly unsightly. There is no lacquer checking to be seen anywhere on the body. The neck matches the cleanliness of the body with lacquer checking down by the flat of the butt of the neck and on the front and back of the headstock. There are only a few dings in the edge of the headstock. The hardware on the guitar is nearly immaculate, with barely any tarnish, which is especially notable for the bridge and saddles which must have lived under the often discarded bridge cover. The most notable wear on the guitar is on the end, on either side of the strap button. There is a textured lacquer burn from either a strap and cable the guitar shared it's case with or possibly a guitar stand it spent a good amount of it's time on

The parts and electronics are all original. The three way switch and grey bottom pickups are untouched, living on a very clean pickguard with no discoloration, cracks, or signs of shrinkage. The frets show little wear, with some indication of a very well executed level and recrowning. The is some light wear to the fretboard, mainly in the chowboy chord neighborhood, that clearly show this guitar was played. The guitar plays beautifully, sounding out across the scale and feeling great. The pickups have that truly magical and musical vintage Strat tone, potentially being bolstered by the string through body. It is in its original hardshell case with black tolex and orange interior. The original bridge cover and hang tag/manual is included, with the serial number handwritten inside with pen. $252.50 is written in marker on the exterior, possibly markings from the original dealer that sold it new. The original grey cable is included, as well as period set of "Audition Strings" and the set of flatwound strings that the guitar may have been shipped with from the factory.

All in all this an instrument that had been lovingly played, yet meticulously maintained over the course of its life. Would surely make a great centerpiece for a collection or a fine number one instrument for a player. Happy to provide additional pictures or answer any questions.

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