Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $14,616

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

  • Owners with long-term use report standard wear, such as buckle rash, indicating the durability of these vintage instruments even with extensive gigging.

    Source
  • Appraisals from multiple sources are advised to ensure a fair assessment and avoid potential undervaluation or overcharging.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's common for vintage Stratocasters to undergo verification of internals and serials at repair shops to maintain authenticity and value.

    Source
  • Gruhn Guitars in Nashville is highly recommended for appraisals, as they are recognized for providing accurate valuations of vintage guitars.

    Source

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

Other

  • The originality of parts, especially neck, body, and pickups, is critical in appraising value; these components significantly impact the guitar's worth.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dan Patlansky uses Fender Stratocaster 1962 The Old Red

Dan Patlansky

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Dan Patlansky on Guitars & Gear - 'The Old Red' (episode 1)," Dan Patlansky discusses his Fender Stratocaster 1962, known as "The Old Red," highlighting its resilience during the Katherina Storm.

Genre 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