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Average Price: $9,562

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$1001+

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Description

The Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie stands as a remarkable relic of a transformative era in guitar history. This particular model embodies the transitional phase of Fender under CBS ownership, showcasing a blend of classic craftsmanship and evolving production techniques. One of the hallmark features from this period is the enlarged headstock, a distinctive trait that sets it apart from its predecessors. This guitar also boasts the inclusion of the maple fingerboard option on a two-piece neck, catering to a variety of playing preferences.

Renowned for its three single-coil pickups, the 1965 L Serie Stratocaster delivers that quintessential Fender sound, characterized by clear, bell-like tones and a versatile range. The bolt-on neck design with pearloid dot inlays provides a seamless playing experience, while the offset solid body shape ensures comfort and style. Made from an alder body and a maple neck with a veneer rosewood fingerboard, this Stratocaster offers a balanced and resonant tonal foundation.

Collectors and musicians alike treasure this instrument not just for its historical significance, but also for the legendary artists it has influenced, such as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. The transition from clay to pearloid dot inlays and the shift in body contouring subtly mark the evolution within this iconic series, making the 1965 L Serie a sought-after piece in the vintage market.

Key Features:

  • Enlarged headstock distinctive to 1965 models
  • Maple neck with veneer rosewood fingerboard
  • Offset solid body design
  • Three single-coil pickups with a three-way selector
  • Bolt-on neck with pearloid dot inlays
  • Alder body for balanced resonance

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Stratocaster
Finish Black, Blonde, Candy Apple Red, Daphne Blue, Fiesta Red, Firemist Gold, Ice Blue Metallic, Inca Silver, Lake Placid Blue, Ocean Turquoise Metallic, Olympic White, Shoreline Gold, Sonic Blue, Sunburst, Teal Green Metallic
Year 1965
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Red, Silver, Teal, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
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

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie?

The Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie typically features a "C" shape neck profile, which offers a comfortable grip suitable for most playing styles, making it a favorite among both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the 1965 L Serie Stratocaster?

The 1965 L Serie Stratocaster is equipped with three single-coil pickups known for their bright, clear, and bell-like tones, making them ideal for genres like blues, rock, and surf music.

Is the Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie suitable for beginners?

While the Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie is a highly sought-after vintage model, its playability and iconic sound can be appreciated by players of all levels, although its value and historical significance may make it more appealing to collectors and experienced musicians.

Does the 1965 L Serie Stratocaster have a tremolo bridge?

Yes, the Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie features a tremolo bridge, allowing for pitch modulation and expressive playing techniques.

What is the fretboard material of the Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie?

The fretboard of the Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie is made from rosewood, which contributes to its warm tone and smooth playability.

What are the finish options available for the 1965 L Serie Stratocaster?

The Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie is available in a variety of finishes, including Black, Sunburst, Candy Apple Red, and Olympic White, among others, each offering a unique aesthetic appeal.

Tone Zone

Tone Zone

How does it SCORE? 1965 Fender Stratocaster L-series | Vintage Guitars | Tone Zone

Video thumbnail for How does it SCORE? 1965 Fender Stratocaster L-series | Vintage Guitars | Tone Zone by Tone Zone

How does it SCORE? 1965 Fender Stratocaster L-series | Vintage Guitars | Tone Zone

Tone Zone

Tone Zone

Video thumbnail for 1965 Fender Stratocaster L-Series by Know Your Vintage Guitars

1965 Fender Stratocaster L-Series

Know Your Vintage Guitars

Know Your Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender Stratocaster 1965 L series Dm blues PAF 1959 inside by spiraless

Fender Stratocaster 1965 L series Dm blues PAF 1959 inside

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Video thumbnail for Fender Stratocaster 1965 L series SRV tone by spiraless

Fender Stratocaster 1965 L series SRV tone

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Fender Stratocaster L series 1965 Cornford RK100

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Video thumbnail for Fender Stratocaster 1965 L series dry test (no FX) by spiraless

Fender Stratocaster 1965 L series dry test (no FX)

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie.

Build quality

  • The "A" stamped on the neck indicates an extremely narrow neck, reminiscent of a "Wizard Neck," combining with a 7.25 radius for a unique feel.

    Source
  • A filled hole near the output jack signifies authenticity, as it was used in the factory for painting.

    Source
  • The natural finish on some 1965 Strats is likely a refinish, as original 1965 models didn't come in a natural finish.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Early 1965 models still featured the spaghetti logo and pearloid dot inlays, aligning with the 1964 specifications and retaining the pre-CBS aesthetic.

    Source
  • The 1965 Stratocaster typically has a 3-way switch, but players can achieve "quacky" tones by carefully positioning the switch in between settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 1965 L-series guitars are often considered pre-CBS due to retaining earlier design elements, comparable to complete 1964 models in quality and feel.

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  • Bolt-on necks in Strats contribute to their signature twang, comparable to the twang found in bolt-on necks of PRS CE 24s.

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Value and pricing

  • A refinished 1965 Stratocaster could be valued between $14,000 and $17,000, reflecting its historical significance and condition.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Del Shannon uses Fender Stratocaster 1965 L Serie

Del Shannon

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Traveling Wilburys

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tayorion

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