Vintage 1966 Fender Stratocaster Refinished Gold with Case
SKU 80FEN116
by Fender
Sold out
Original price
$ 12,499.99
Original price
$ 12,499.99
-
Original price
$ 12,499.99
Original price
$ 12,499.99
Current price
$ 11,250.00
$ 11,250.00
-
$ 11,250.00
Current price
$ 11,250.00
One of, if not THE most iconic electric guitar of all time, the Fender Stratocaster has gone through many eras, iterations, and versions over the decades. After debuting in 1954, the model evolved through the 50's and 60's. Some of the most significant changes came in the mid-to-late 60's, when the company was purchased by CBS. That deal went down in 1965, and really 1966 marked the beginning of the "transition era" for Fender. Guitars from then are considered much more desirable than ones from just a few years later. Here, we have a great example.
This 1966 Strat is one of the last with the regular sized headstock, which grew in size starting that year. As to be expected, it's an alder body, maple neck and rosewood fretboard. It's the same 4-bold neck design and 3 single coil pickups, with all of the tone desired from a vintage Strat. It was refinished in an ultra cool Gold color, and is all original other than the pots and switch (5-way was installed). When we took it in, we weren't sure, but we did the due diligence, vetting and research. Everything checks out - this is an original '66 Strat, refinished.
Without plugging, we immediately noticed right away how lively and resonant the guitar is. Also, it feels fantastic - it has the slim mid 60's C neck shape that players know and love, with an unmarked maple neck and easy to play rosewood fretboard. There is plenty of life left in the frets. Plugged in, we were blown away by how great it sounds. The original gray bobbin pickups give you the clear, bell-like tone and mid scoop that is signature to this era. The pickups are well balanced and sound sweet no matter which position is used. This gives you the sound of the 60's in the most authentic way.
The original tuners and bridge are intact, and like most Fender hardware, have stood the test of time. It also has the Fender "F" neck plate, which we believe is one of the earlier ones for this. The guitar has been refinished, of course, and it's obvious that it was done by an expert - it's very, very well executed. Personally, we love the color chosen - and it's not often that anyone would have a '66 Strat that looks like this. Other than the finish, pots and pickup selector switch, everything is original. The guitar does not come with the original case, unfortunately - that's long gone. Instead, we've assigned it a different Fender hardshell case.
This is an amazing example of a mid-60's Fender electric, before the major changes started taking place. It would be at home in any vintage collector's stable, a studio that wants the coolest vintage gear for its clients, or just anyone that appreciates the history of Fender. Come to Truetone Music to experience this '66 Strat today, or order right here for it to be expertly packed and safely shipped (fully insured) to your home.
Serial # 123945