Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $14,627
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The Fender Stratocaster 1962, affectionately known as "The Old Red," is a timeless icon in the world of electric guitars, revered by musicians across genres for its unparalleled versatility and classic design. A quintessential piece of musical history, the '62 Stratocaster marks the transition to the curved or veneer Rosewood fingerboard, a subtle yet important evolution from the earlier slab style. This change, along with the durable Alder body and smooth Maple neck, delivers a playing experience that combines comfort with the legendary Strat sound.
Designed with the professional musician in mind, The Old Red features three high-quality single-coil pickups that produce the distinctive bright, crisp tones that have defined countless records. The 5-way pickup selector allows for a broad palette of sonic possibilities, making it an ideal choice for both studio sessions and live performances. Whether you're channeling the smooth licks of Buddy Holly or the electrifying riffs of Jimi Hendrix, this guitar is your perfect companion.
A hallmark of Fender's craftsmanship, the Stratocaster 1962 stands out not only for its sound but also for its aesthetic appeal, with a 3-ply pickguard and dot inlays that capture the essence of vintage cool. Whether you're a collector or a modern-day rockstar, The Old Red promises a historical journey with every strum, making it a must-have for any serious guitarist.
Key Features:
- Alder body with Maple neck
- Curved or veneer Rosewood fingerboard
- Bolt-on neck design
- Dot inlays for classic style
- Three single-coil pickups
- 5-way pickup selector for versatile sound options
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 Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red?
-
The Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red is known for its classic, bright, and bell-like tones, ideal for genres like rock, blues, and surf music. The single-coil pickups provide a clear, articulate sound with a touch of vintage warmth.
-
Is the Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red suitable for beginners?
-
While the Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red is a high-quality instrument often favored by experienced players and collectors, its comfortable neck and versatile tones can also make it suitable for dedicated beginners looking for a long-term investment.
-
What is the neck profile like on the Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red?
-
The Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red typically features a vintage-style "C" neck profile, offering a comfortable grip that is well-suited for both rhythm and lead playing.
-
How does the Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red differ from modern Stratocasters?
-
The Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red features vintage specifications like a 7.25" fretboard radius and a rosewood fretboard, which contribute to its distinct playability and tone, differing from the flatter radii and modern pickups found in contemporary models.
-
What finishes are available for the Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red?
-
The Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red is available in several finishes, including Candy Apple Red, Dakota Red, and Fiesta Red, each offering a unique aesthetic while maintaining the classic Stratocaster look.
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red.
Value and pricing
-
1962 Fender Stratocasters with original finishes, especially rare colors like factory Black, can significantly increase the instrument's value.
Source -
A refinish, especially if done long ago and well-executed, may reduce a Stratocaster's value to around 50% of its original finish counterpart.
Source -
Vintage Guitar Magazine's annual price guide is a useful resource for determining the value of vintage guitars, particularly those with modifications like refinishing.
Source
User experience
Setup and maintenance
Use cases and applications
-
Despite its vintage status, some owners still use their 1962 Stratocaster actively, preferring it for its historical significance and unique tonal qualities.
Source -
For selling, Reverb is noted as a platform that can maximize return through private sale, while consignment with a dealer is another viable option.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Fender Solid Body Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Solid Body Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
yildizburcGear IQ 108
-