1965 Fender Stratocaster

For your consideration, Garrett Park Guitars presents this 1965 Fender Stratocaster.

1965 represents a fascinating and historically significant moment for the Stratocaster—marking the transition from Fender’s pre-CBS era while still retaining many of the features, materials, and build practices that defined the company’s golden age. With its Brazilian rosewood veneer, gray-bottom pickups, and transitional headstock, this all but all-original Strat captures the unmistakable feel and sound that make mid-’60s examples so enduringly desirable.

Among the last L-series Strats produced, this example features components from early, mid, and late 1965, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the transition era. It is clearly a player, exuding real character and mojo, from the arm-wear on the contour to the buckle rash, while remaining structurally sound with no evidence of repair or refinishing.

At its heart is a trio of untouched pickups, dated November 1965. Complemented by factory CTS pots (March '65), a .05μF tone cap, and cloth-bound wiring, they produce the glassy, articulate sound that helped earn the Strat its iconic status in popular music. To remain as playable as its tone demands, this guitar has been refretted. However, all other components remain original, and even the factory fret wire was retained. 

This Stratocaster is accompanied by its original hardshell case.

Specifications

All components original unless specified otherwise

Model & Year

• Model: Fender Stratocaster
• Year of manufacture: 1965
• Serial Number: L89640

Body

• Material: Alder
• Finish: Sunburst nitrocellulose lacquer
• Weight: 7bs 2oz

Neck

• Date Stamp: 2SEP65B
• Material & Construction: Maple, 4-bolt
• Fretboard: Rosewood
• Profile shape: Medium C
• Nut Width: 1.65"
• Inlays: Pearloid dots
• Frets: Refret
• Headstock: Transition logo
• Tuners: Kluson Deluxe (double-line)

Hardware

• Bridge / Tailpiece: Synchronized tremolo
• Pickguard: 3-ply (W/B/W)
• Knobs: Original 
• Strap buttons: Original

Electronics

• Pickups: Original grey-bottoms, dated 11-24-65
• Impedance / DCR readings:
  • Bridge: 5.94KΩ
  • Middle: 6.66KΩ
  • Neck: 6.25KΩ
• Potentiometers: CTS (137 6510)
• Wiring: Cloth-bound 
• Switch: 3-way CRL

Condition

• Cosmetic: Very Good, with honest play-wear and buckle rash
• Structural: Excellent with no cracks, breaks, or repairs
• Accessories: Original hardshell case, tremolo arm, and fret wire