The Evolution of the Fender Stratocaster 1980-1989

1980 The Strat; Jimi Hendrix-inspired prototype

1981 Walnut Strat; Gold Stratocaster; ‘Dan Smith’ Stratocaster specs: small headstock, 4-bolt neck

1982 Vintage series ’57 and ’62 Stratocasters (Japan)

1983 Vintage series ’57 and ’62 Stratocasters (USA); ‘Standard’ Stratocaster specs: 2 knobs, 90-degree jack

1984 Elite series: Walnut Elite, Gold Elite, and Elite Stratocasters; Stratocaster now Standard Stratocaster

1985 CBS sells Fender (FMIC new owners); Contemporary Stratocasters (Japan)

1986 American Standard Stratocaster developed

1987 Strat Plus; Eric Clapton and Yngwie Malmsteen signature model Stratocasters

1988 H.M. Strat

1989 Deluxe Strat Plus