Any vintage guitar aficionado knows that there are some instruments that just have “it”. Whether you call it “vibe”, “mojo”, or prefer some other blurry adjective, seasoned players and admirers can usually spot these pieces from a mile away. They radiate an aura of history that can’t quite be matched in even the most accurate replicas or reissues. Don’t get us wrong, we love a minty clean “under the bed special” as much as anyone, but those certain well-loved guitars that show their mileage hold a special place in our hearts. We love any vintage Fender guitar here at IVG. But every so often, a particular example comes our way that’s worth giving a little extra praise to. This would be one of those guitars. We’re pleased to present you folks with our 1964 Pre-CBS Fender Stratocaster

The Fender Stratocaster is one of the most beloved instruments of all time and for good reason. It’s been cherished by both musicians and collectors for decades, and has now reached a legendary status in the world of electric guitars. This vintage pre-CBS model boasts a contoured, double-cutaway alder body, offering excellent comfort and balance during play. It sports its original 3-tone sunburst finish in thin nitrocellulose lacquer, a timeless look that exudes vintage charm.

The face of the guitar shows subtle fading in the red of the sunburst, which suggests that this guitar has seen plenty of sunlight over the course of its almost 60-year life. Too cool! This kind of wear only comes from many years of service, and you can’t help but wonder what kind of things this guitar has seen while looking at it. The playwear and patina on this Strat almost stares you back in the face as if to say, “I was there, and i’ve lived it”.

One of the most notable features of this ’64 Stratocaster is its trio of original single-coil pickups, delivering crisp and clear tones. These pickups provide a wide range of sonic possibilities, from the glassy, bell-like cleans to the biting overdrive tones favored by countless legends. With an added 5-way switch, players can explore the full range of pickup combinations and sounds on tap.

The maple neck sports a comfortable medium “C”-shaped profile with a silky broken-in feel. And being a late ’64, the Brazilian rosewood fingerboard features pearl dots as opposed to clay. The overall feel of this neck is remarkable, and the professional refret with jumbo fret wire ensures smooth playability and effortless bending. So if you’re a player doing 2 step bends, rest assured there’s no fretting out on this guitar. The original synchronized tremolo bridge allows for expressive vibrato effects, another hallmark of the Stratocaster’s versatility.

With its timeless design and exceptional feel and tone, this 1964 Fender Stratocaster is destined to remain a highly sought-after instrument, representing the golden era of electric guitars and the enduring legacy of Fender’s craftsmanship. The wear on this example proves that this is a stellar guitar, telling tales of long closed down smoke-filled dive bars, midnight performances on outdoor stages, and people and places now in the distant past. This ’64 is truly a special piece that’s sure to put a smile on its new owners face for many years to come.

We’re always looking to buy vintage Fender instruments! If you’re looking to sell but don’t know where to start, visit our website here. We pay top dollar for quality instruments at any of our 4 locations across Southern California! Give us a call or contact us online directly.