Vintage Fender AVRI '62 Reissue Stratocaster - USA 1983

This is an early Fullerton-built ’62 Stratocaster Reissue, made at Fender’s original California factory before the move to Corona in early 1985. It’s one of the highly desirable first-generation American Vintage reissues, built by Fender’s top craftsmen several years before the Custom Shop was officially established.

The neck is dated 1st February 1983 and shows the deep, sculpted body contours that define Fullerton-era Strats. Its thin nitrocellulose blonde finish has mellowed beautifully over time, and the dark rosewood slab fingerboard feels exceptional. Original Fullerton features are all present — including the early 3-way switch, black bobbin single-coil pickups with cloth wiring, and CTS potentiometers stamped 1378226 (June 1982).

These early ’62 RIs have become some of the most coveted modern-vintage Fenders, prized by collectors for their historical significance and by players for their feel, resonance and tone. This example rings with classic Strat sparkle and punch, aided by the lively black bobbin pickups.

It remains in excellent, unmodified condition for its age. The neck is straight with a fast, low action, the frets are clean and show minimal wear, and the tuners are tight and reliable. Hardware shows only light natural ageing. At some point, a couple of stickers were applied to the back — the outlines can still be faintly seen — but they’re long gone and don’t detract from its look or originality. Apart from a few small marks, it’s remarkably clean for a 40-year-old instrument. Some nice checking in the finish and pick markings from aggressive strumming. No modifications, no repairs, no issues — just a superb, original Fullerton Strat ready for stage or studio.

Supplied in its original Fender hard shell case with tags, manual and ashtray bridge cover.

Features:

Action at 1st Fret: 0.5mm

Action at 12th Fret: 2.0mm

Neck Depth at 1st Fret: 20.37mm

Neck Depth at 12th Fret: 21.74mm

Nut Width: 41.56mm

Width at 12th Fret: 50.88mm

Weight: 7.9 lbs

Scale Length: 25.5"

Fretboard Radius: 9.5"

Neck: Tinted slim C-shape maple, dark rosewood slab fingerboard

Body: Alder

Pickups: American Vintage black bobbin single-coils with staggered pole pieces

Switching: 3-way

Pickguard: 3-ply laminated

Tremolo: Vintage style

Tuners: Vintage Kluson style

Frets: 21 vintage, unmarked

Case: Original Fender hard shell with tags, manual & ashtray cover