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Average Price: $24,032

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

Step into the golden era of rock 'n' roll with the 1962 Fender Stratocaster, a guitar that has become synonymous with timeless sound and vintage flair. This iconic instrument captures the essence of a transformative period in music, where innovation met tradition. Its Alder body and Maple neck ensure a balanced tone and comfortable playability—perfect for both stage and studio.

One of the unique aspects of the '62 Stratocaster is its transition to a curved or 'veneer' Rosewood fingerboard, which marked a departure from the thicker "slab" style of previous years. This subtle tweak not only enhances the guitar's aesthetics but also contributes to its smooth, fluid playing experience.

The Stratocaster's versatile 3 single-coil pickups and 5-way selector allow musicians to explore a wide range of tones, from bright, crisp leads to warm, rounded rhythms. Whether you're channeling the energy of Buddy Holly or the soul of Jimi Hendrix, the 1962 Stratocaster stands ready to deliver, thanks to its enduring design elements like the bolt-on neck and dot inlays.

Finished in the classic Sunburst, this guitar is as much a visual masterpiece as it is an auditory one, making it a cherished addition for collectors and performers alike.

Key Features:

  • Alder body and Maple neck with a veneer Rosewood fingerboard
  • 3 single-coil pickups with a 5-way pickup selector
  • Bolt-on neck with dot inlays
  • Classic Sunburst finish
  • Notable players include Buddy Holly, Bob Dylan, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jimi Hendrix

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Stratocaster
Finish Blonde, Candy Apple Red, Dakota Red, Fiesta Red, Olympic White, Sonic Blue, Sunburst
Year 1962
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Blue, Brown, Red, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Vintage Pre-CBS Era
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Fender 1962 Stratocaster for blues music?

The Fender 1962 Stratocaster is renowned for its bright, clear tones with a smooth, warm midrange, making it ideal for blues. Its single-coil pickups deliver a crisp, articulate sound that enhances expressive playing styles typical in blues music.

What is the neck profile like on the Fender 1962 Stratocaster?

The Fender 1962 Stratocaster features a "C"-shaped neck profile, which is comfortable for most players, allowing for smooth transitions and easy playability across the fretboard.

Is the Fender 1962 Stratocaster suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the Fender 1962 Stratocaster offers exceptional build quality and sound, it is typically favored by experienced players due to its vintage specifications and price point. Beginners might find more affordable options in the Fender range that offer similar playability.

How does the tremolo bridge on the Fender 1962 Stratocaster affect playability?

The tremolo bridge on the Fender 1962 Stratocaster allows for subtle pitch modulation, adding expressive vibrato effects to your playing. It maintains tuning stability well, making it a versatile choice for various playing styles.

What are the standout features of the Fender 1962 Stratocaster's sound?

The standout features of the Fender 1962 Stratocaster's sound include its bright and articulate single-coil pickups, vintage tonal characteristics, and the ability to cut through mixes with clarity, making it a favorite for rock, blues, and surf music.

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Vintage October 1962 Fender Stratocaster • Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for Vintage October 1962 Fender Stratocaster  •  Wildwood Guitars by Wildwood Guitars

Vintage October 1962 Fender Stratocaster • Wildwood Guitars

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Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1962 Fender Stratocaster | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1962 Fender Stratocaster | Guitar of the Day

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Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1962 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1962 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1962 Fender Stratocaster in Fiesta Red by williesguitars

1962 Fender Stratocaster in Fiesta Red

williesguitars

williesguitars

Video thumbnail for 1962 Fiesta Red Fender Stratocaster by Dave Simpson

1962 Fiesta Red Fender Stratocaster

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Dave Simpson

Video thumbnail for 1962 Fender Stratocaster | CME Vintage Demo | Alex Chadwick by Chicago Music Exchange

1962 Fender Stratocaster | CME Vintage Demo | Alex Chadwick

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Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for 1962 Fender Stratocaster by ATB Guitars

1962 Fender Stratocaster

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ATB Guitars

Video thumbnail for Uncirculated Pre-CBS Custom Color Strat: 1962 Fender Stratocaster Fiesta Red! by True Vintage Guitar

Uncirculated Pre-CBS Custom Color Strat: 1962 Fender Stratocaster Fiesta Red!

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True Vintage Guitar

Video thumbnail for 1962 Fender Stratocaster - All Original - ONLY at Lovies Guitars - Vintage! by TJ Nilsen

1962 Fender Stratocaster - All Original - ONLY at Lovies Guitars - Vintage!

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Video thumbnail for 1962 Original  Fiesta Red Fender Strat Sound Demo www.eddievegas.com Eddie Vegas by eddievegas1

1962 Original Fiesta Red Fender Strat Sound Demo www.eddievegas.com Eddie Vegas

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Video thumbnail for 1962 Fender Stratocaster fiesta red by Oscar Guitars

1962 Fender Stratocaster fiesta red

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Fender Strat 1962 Fiesta Red

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Guitar Village

Video thumbnail for 1962 Fender Stratocaster Fiesta Red!!! Demo / Yeahman´s Guitar Fest / VintageandRare.com by VintageandRare

1962 Fender Stratocaster Fiesta Red!!! Demo / Yeahman´s Guitar Fest / VintageandRare.com

VintageandRare

VintageandRare

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender 1962 Stratocaster.

User experience

  • Owners find the tone warmer and darker than modern Strats, credited to the slab Brazilian Rosewood neck.

    Source
  • Owners mention that having historical documents or item provenance can attract higher offers than market value.

    Source
  • Owners note that rigorous playing styles, such as attacking the strings, contribute to faster wear and unique character development in the guitar's finish.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's noted that playing vintage models live offers a richer experience than what comparison videos convey.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Original frets on 60s Strats were pulled from the bass side; improper removal can damage the Brazilian rosewood fretboard.

    Source
  • Verification of finish, pickups, solder seams, and case by an expert is crucial for securing a fair selling price.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider a refinished '62 with a refret for more affordable vintage tone without concerns over future modifications.

    Source
  • An Ilitch noise-cancelling system has been installed in some '62 Strats to reduce buzzing, enhancing their live performance capabilities.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some buckle rash may enhance playability comfort by reducing the fear of damaging a pristine finish.

    Source
  • Nitro finishes from the '60s, like on the 1962 Stratocaster, degrade quickly with heavy use, leading to distinctive wear and fading, unlike durable modern poly finishes.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Factory Black custom color from early 1960s is rare and significantly increases value, provided it's verified as original.

    Source
  • A '62 in good condition with minimal changes can fetch $32-35K, while heavily worn or player-grade models drop to around $27K.

    Source

Other

  • Guitars from this era often have serials and components verified by repair shops to confirm authenticity and age.

    Source
  • Some '62 Strats show vertical stripe wear near the neck pickup due to wood grain exposure after the finish wears off, often seen in funk playing styles.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The transition from a two-color to a three-color sunburst in 1959 means many '62 Strats have faded red tones in their finish over time due to light exposure.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
skylinerr

Main strat

This has been my main for years for sessions but I decided to put all I own on my board and this is my number one since 1978, tuners broke replaced with nicker klusons pickups died from being not looked after for years replaced with ssl 1s and its always going to be my best axe!

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Frusciante uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

John Frusciante

Guitarist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, at minute 4:53, Frusciante can be seen using the Fender Stratocaster in a sunburst tone with a white pickguard and three single coils of the same color.

See how Jimmy Page uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

Jimmy Page

Guitarist

Led Zeppelin

...
Verified via YouTube

Neste https://youtu.be/35nJewbonbI?si=oNhh5yokUCmIA82d Jimmy Page play 1962 Fender Stratocaster

See how Matthew Healy uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

Matthew Healy

Singer, Guitarist

The 1975

...
Verified via Photo

During the reading and Leeds festival 2022 we can see Matt Healy playing a fiesta red Strat that looks pretty old. doing some research he seems to have acquired it from here.

https://truevintageguitar.com/blogs/tvg-blog/fender-stratocaster-1962-fiesta-red

The article confirms all of the details of the guitar. As well as it's history.

"I picked up the '62 Fiesta Red Strat out of its case and saw a 5 digit serial number, spaghetti style logo, faded mint green pickguard, and worn custom color Fiesta Red finish. The 5 digit serial number beginning with 82xxx falls right in line with the range we would expect for 1962 (More: Fender Serial Numbers). The spaghetti style logo with three patent numbers was introduced late 1962 and lasted until mid 1964. The celluloid pickguard, which most collectors refer to as mint green because of the look it gets after fading over time, was updated to a pure white ABS material in 1965. "

He then talks about how he sold it to "fellow guitar collector, and Dirty Hit [1975's Label] record label owner Jamie Oborne"

And later

"I received a picture from Jamie recently of Matty Healy of The 1975 playing this exact '62 Fiesta Red Stratocaster at the Reading Festival 2022. Jamie was able to have nice refret completed and have the middle pickup rewound to original spec."

See how Mick Mars uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

Mick Mars

Guitarist

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

«My Fiesta Red Strat is a ’62 with a small headstock and spaghetti logo» (Mick Mars)

See how Kim Deal uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

Kim Deal

Singer, Guitarist

Pixies

...
Verified via YouTube

In a performance on MTV's "120 Minutes" on November 5, 1993, Kim Deal of The Breeders played a 1962 Fender Stratocaster, tuned half a step down.

See how Paul Davids uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

Paul Davids

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

in this video titled "SAME GUITAR, 4 BUDGETS! (Can you hear the difference?)" by Paul Davids on YouTube, he uses an original 1962 Fender Stratocaster although its not stated if he owns it or not.

L

Loz Hardy

Guitarist

Kingmaker

...
Verified via YouTube

Performance on The Word playing Really Scrape the Sky https://youtu.be/b0MU2UewsVQ

See how Anssi Kela uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

Anssi Kela

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Anssi Kela told in his video (41.13) that he got a Stratocaster, which belonged originally to Muta Manninen. The guitar was painted black in the 70s.

See how Rob Parissi uses Fender 1962 Stratocaster

Rob Parissi

Guitarist

Wild Cherry

...
Verified via YouTube

in this live show rob parissi plays a fender strat in Fiesta red and he played that thing damn good

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