1960 Fender Stratocaster

Check the serial number on the neck plate (or headstock for later models). Fender serial numbers were not strictly sequential — the neck date stamp (penciled on heel) and body date stamp (neck pocket) are more reliable for precise dating. The neck date stamp (penciled on the heel, visible when the neck is removed) is the single most reliable dating method for Fender guitars. Body dates in the neck pocket or under the pickguard corroborate. Pot codes should read 304 (Stackpole) or 140 (CTS) followed by date codes from 1959-1960. Pots should predate the guitar by no more than 12-18 months. The finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer — under UV/blacklight, original nitro fluoresces differently than modern polyester or polyurethane. Nitro finishes check (develop fine cracks) and wear naturally. Refinished guitars often have a too-perfect look. Slab-cut rosewood fingerboard (thicker rosewood) — this is a key identifier. Slab boards are flat on the bottom where they meet the neck. Pre-CBS Fender (before January 1965 acquisition). Spaghetti logo on headstock. Cloth wiring throughout. Three-way switch (five-way not available until mid-1970s). Kluson tuners. Contoured body (alder or ash). Three single-coil pickups with staggered pole pieces. Synchronized tremolo bridge. Verify correct pickup configuration and tremolo block material for 1960. Check for replaced tuners (original Kluson Deluxe single-line should be present), refrets, body routing modifications, and any filled screw holes. Original custom color finishes are verified by examining color in pickup cavities and under the pickguard. Original case adds provenance value.