1959-64 Fender Stratocaster
The 2nd Generation Fender Stratocaster was introduced in 1959, and is collectively known as "Pre-CBS" Stratocasters. "Pre-CBS" signifies guitars which were mad prior the the CBS acquisition of Fender in 1965. "Pre-CBS" models are much more desireable to collectors than models produced during the subsequent "CBS era".
History & Significance
1959-64 Stratocaster (pre CBS)
a. 1959-1962 - Rosewood SLAB and Alder Period
b. 1963-1964 - Rosewood Veneer and Alder Period
○ Second Generation of the standard Strat: rosewood fretboard (slab>veneer from ‘63) on maple neck, 3 color sunburst finish, 11-screw pickguard.
§ Variations during this period include neck profile, fretboard/neck join style, dot marker material, patent numbers on headstock, logo style, and pickguard material.
Artists & Notable Guitars
Stratocaster - The Official Site of Rory Gallagher SN 64351 $1,160,000
1960 Fender Stratocaster Jeff Beck "Blu Wind" SN 56599 1/22/25 Christies $550k
Mark Knopflers 1962 Fender Stratocaster No SN - non-original refinish, between Fiesta and Dakota red used on Dire Straits - Sultans Of Swing (Live Aid 1985)
Steve Gaines 1964 Fender Stratocaster - Used with Lynyrd Skynyrd
A famous NON "Pre-CBS" model is Ed King's 1973 Fender Stratocaster that he used to record Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama"
John Frusciante's 1962 Fender Stratocaster SN 84153
Although not a "Pre-CBS" model, another famous Strat is 1990/93 CUSTOM SHOP STRATOCASTER FOR JEFF BECK, BY J.W. BLACK, KNOWN AS 'ANOUSHKA' which sold for $1,250,000
Reissues & Replicas
Mach Five Guitar
The M5 Guitar is a 1994 Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan Signature "Number One"® SN SE922362
Image Descriptions