AMERICAN ORIGINAL ‘60S STRATOCASTER

A high-class, American-made instrument that nods to Fender’s glory years.

RRP: $3,799

Body: Alder (with lacquer finish)

Neck: Maple (thick ‘60s C-shape)

Scale: 25.5 inches

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 22

Pickups: 3x Three Pure Vintage ‘65 Single-Coils

Controls: Master Volume, Tone 1 (Neck/Middle Pickups), Tone 2 (Bridge Pickup)

Hardware: Nickel/Chrome

PROS

• One of the best American-made Strats currently available.

• Three great colour choices, including Shell Pink.

CONS

• More suited to vintage-style players.

If you’re looking for a beautifully constructed, American-made Strat that has more in common with Fender’s past than other models, then the American Original ‘60s will undoubtedly score high. Periodcorrect appointments such as an alder body with lacquer finish, mint green pickguard and a rosewood fingerboard bring lots of vintage appeal, though unlike the original Strats from this era, it benefits from a five-way pickup switch – offering some level of modern versatility.

Best of all, though, are the options for an Olympic White finish - or even better, Shell Pink - which make it a guitar that can truly turn back time and transport you through Fender’s most iconic years.