1965 Fender Stratocaster – Sunburst

This beautiful 1965 Fender Stratocaster represents a transitional period for the model, as Fender evolved its specs during the mid-1960s. It retains several transitional features, including the small headstock, transition logo, and pearloid dot inlays. It’s a great blend of pre-CBS styling with subtle shifts that define this unique era. Finished in its vibrant, original 3-tone Sunburst, the guitar presents very clean overall with excellent color. There are some minor finish touch-ups along the lower bass side of the body, though these are mainly visible under blacklight. The guitar’s hardware appears original throughout, except for a later-era backplate. The neck is particularly striking, featuring attractive flame figuring and a comfortable medium/thin C profile that feels fast and familiar in hand. Date-wise, everything lines up nicely for a mid-1965 build, including a September 1965 neck, 10th-week-of-1965 pots, and 9-28-65 pickups. All together, this Strat delivers the look, feel, and tone you’d expect from a great mid-’60s example. It’s lively and resonant, with classic Strat clarity and warmth across all positions.

Overall Condition: 9