1963 Fender Stratocaster

Custom Colour Fender Stratocasters have long been considered some of the most sought after vintage guitars on the market, and this pre-CBS 1963 Fender Stratocaster finished in Fiesta Red is one of the more desirable models from the period. This particular colour was the most popular custom colour in the early '60s, mostly due to the popularity of The Shadows at the time.

This guitar has a particularly interesting history. It was refinished in black in the early '80s, although the finish was sprayed straight over the Fiesta Red, instead of the original finish being removed. Our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop have spent many hours painstakingly restoring this Strat, gradually sanding and buffing back the black respray to reveal the vibrant original Fiesta Red finish. This guitar has been extensively appraised by our luthiers, and unlike many other Feista Red '60s Strats you see for sale in the UK, this Stratocaster features a Fullerton factory Fiesta Red finish and not a Selmer refinish that was applied in the UK. 

This guitar is in very good condition, with some signs of play wear and signs of the black refinish still visible, although this is very minor with the exception of the tremolo cavity. The original black bottom pickups, wiring and 3 way switch and present and correct, which the wires leading to the jack output having previously been cut and re-soldered, presumably to accommodate the previous refinish. All other solder joins within the loom are undisturbed. The three matching pots date to the 15th week of 1963 (304 6315) and the neck heel shows a FEB 63 neck stamp. It is in all original condition with the exception of a set of replacement Kluson tuners and a refret that was carried out by us. It also includes its original brown tolex case. 

This guitar has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.