1960 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst: The Refined Pre-CBS Classic

Why the 1960 Sunburst Stratocaster Matters

The 1960 Fender Stratocaster represents the pinnacle of Leo Fender's original vision—a guitar that had reached full maturity after six years of continuous refinement. The 1960 Fender Stratocaster is considered a wonderful year for the Stratocaster. Not much changed from 1959 to 1960 but the guitar did become slightly more refined in the changes that took place over the 1959 year models. These instruments were crafted during what collectors universally consider the golden era of pre-CBS Fender production, before the company's 1965 acquisition by Columbia Broadcasting System.

What makes the 1960 Sunburst Stratocaster special:

• Perfected manufacturing processes after six years of Stratocaster production

• Premium materials still being used, including old-growth woods and hand-wound pickups

• Classic slab rosewood fretboard with Brazilian rosewood that was changed to veneer in late 1962

• Lighter, more resonant alder bodies with thinner, more vibrant nitrocellulose finishes

• Subtle pickup improvements with the switch from north-wound to south-wound pickups

• Built during the peak era of American guitar manufacturing excellence

The 1960 Stratocaster bridges the classic late-1950s specifications with the subtle improvements that would define the early 1960s pre-CBS era. For collectors and players alike, these instruments represent the sweet spot of vintage Stratocaster evolution.

Historical Context: Fender's Golden Year

1960 was a pivotal year for Fender Musical Instruments. Leo Fender and his team had perfected the Stratocaster formula while simultaneously developing the Jazz Bass, which would debut later that year. At the beginning of 1960, Fender switched from North Wound Pickups to South Wound Pickups. There is no real difference in Tone. That's why no one really noticed. This seemingly minor change reflected Fender's ongoing commitment to manufacturing efficiency without compromising tone.

During this period, Fender was experiencing unprecedented growth. The company had established itself as the leader in solid-body electric guitars, with the Stratocaster becoming the weapon of choice for a new generation of rock and roll pioneers. Artists like Buddy Holly had already demonstrated the Stratocaster's versatility, and surf music was beginning to showcase the instrument's bright, articulate voice.

The 1960 production year also marked the final chapter of the early pre-CBS era's manufacturing philosophy. Fender was still a relatively small company where Leo Fender himself could maintain oversight of production standards and quality control. This hands-on approach would soon change as the company grew larger and eventually sold to CBS in 1965.

Why Collectors Seek 1960 Stratocasters:

The 1960 model year represents the culmination of early Stratocaster development. By this time, Fender had resolved the early production inconsistencies of the 1954-1957 period while maintaining the superior materials and craftsmanship that would be compromised in later CBS-era production.

Key Value Factors for 1960 Sunburst Stratocasters:

Finish Originality: Fender continued with the 3-tone sunburst finish as standard for the Stratocaster. However, the red they used lost pigment went exposed to UV rays or sunlight. So, many of the original finish sunburst 1960 Strats look like the classic 2-tone sunburst of the 50s. Unfaded sunburst examples with intact red pigments command premium prices.

Component Originality: All-original examples with matching dates command 25-40% premiums over guitars with replaced parts or refinishing.

Condition Grade: Clean, unfaded sunburst finishes are increasingly rare due to UV light exposure, making well-preserved examples highly sought after.

Documentation: Original case, receipts, or provenance can add 10-15% to value.

Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium examples. Our expertise in pre-CBS Stratocasters ensures accurate valuation and fair market pricing for sellers.

Detailed Identification Guide: Authenticating Your 1960 Stratocaster

Serial Numbers

The serial numbers for the 1960 Fender Stratocaster generally fall within the 40,000 – 58,000 range stamped onto the neck plate. However, serial numbers alone aren't definitive for dating—always cross-reference with other identifying features as Fender's numbering wasn't strictly sequential.

Neck Date Identification

The most reliable identifier is the pencil-written neck date on the heel of the neck (visible when removed from the body). 1960 necks are typically marked with notations like "1-60" through "12-60" indicating month and year. The format during this period was month-year (e.g., "5-60" for May 1960).

Potentiometer Codes

1960 Stratocasters used Stackpole potentiometers with codes that can be decoded: First three digits (304) = Stackpole manufacturer code, Next two digits (60) = Year of manufacture, Last two digits = Week of manufacture. CTS potentiometers weren't widely used until 1963.

Key Visual Identifiers for 1960 Models:

1. Slab Rosewood Fingerboard: Brazilian rosewood slab board approximately 4.8mm thick (not veneer)

2. Clay Dot Inlays: Vintage-correct clay position markers with slight yellowing

3. Headstock Logo: "Spaghetti" style logo with thin silver letters outlined in black

4. Pickguard: Single-layer mint green (appears white in photos but has slight greenish tint)

5. Pickup Covers & Knobs: Off-white/aged white ABS plastic showing natural aging

6. Small Headstock: Classic pre-CBS proportions with gold-sparkle "Fender" logo

Body and Neck Construction Details:

• Neck Profile: Very thin C-shape profile, extremely comfortable

• Fretboard Radius: 7.25" radius with 21 small vintage frets

• Body Wood: Premium lightweight alder with excellent grain patterns

• Neck Wood: Hard rock maple with Brazilian rosewood slab fretboard

Detailed Physical Specifications

Weight and Dimensions:

• Typical Weight Range: 7.5-8.5 lbs (lighter than most modern Stratocasters)

• Neck Dimensions: Very thin C-profile with 1-5/8" nut width

• Fretboard Radius: 7.25" with clay dot position markers

• Scale Length: 25.5" (standard Stratocaster scale)

Electronics and Hardware:

• Pickup Configuration: Three single-coil pickups with south-wound magnets

• Pickup Output: Typically 5.5-6.2k ohms resistance per pickup

• Controls: Master volume, two tone controls with 3-way selector switch

• Potentiometers: 250k audio taper Stackpole pots

• Capacitors: Paper-in-oil tone capacitors

• Bridge: Vintage synchronized tremolo with six individual saddles

• Tuners: Single-line Kluson Deluxe tuners with plastic buttons

Case and Accessories:

1960 Stratocasters typically came with the classic Fender "poodle" case featuring:

• Black alligator-pattern exterior with pink plush interior

• Multiple compartments for accessories

• Fender logo embossed on the exterior

Tonal Characteristics: The 1960 Sound Profile

The 1960 Stratocaster represents what many consider the classic pre-CBS Stratocaster tone. The combination of lightweight alder bodies, thin nitrocellulose finishes, and hand-wound pickups creates a distinctive sound profile:

Pickup Characteristics:

• Hand-wound construction with formvar wire for warm, musical response

• South-wound magnets (changed from north-wound in early 1960)

• Unpotted or lightly potted pickups allowing for greater harmonic complexity

• Balanced output across all three pickups with excellent note-to-note clarity

Resonance and Sustain: The lightweight alder bodies and thin nitrocellulose finishes contribute to exceptional resonance and sustain. The slab rosewood fingerboard adds warmth and complexity to the overall tone, creating the perfect balance between brightness and musical warmth.

Amplified Characteristics: Through period-appropriate amplifiers, 1960 Stratocasters deliver:

• Crystal-clear highs without harshness

• Musical midrange with excellent note definition

• Balanced bass response that doesn't overwhelm

• Exceptional touch sensitivity and dynamic response

Notable Recordings: While specific 1960 Stratocaster recordings are difficult to document precisely, instruments from this era were used extensively in early surf music, rockabilly, and the emerging rock and roll genre.

Common Issues & Modifications to Watch For

Typical Problems Found in 1960 Stratocasters:

Finish Issues: The red pigment in the sunburst finish was prone to fading when exposed to UV light, causing many original 3-tone sunbursts to appear as 2-tone bursts. Check for:

• UV-faded red pigments in the sunburst

• Nitrocellulose finish checking (normal aging)

• Touch-up work or overspray

• Complete refinishing (significantly reduces value)

Neck and Fret Issues:

• Worn frets (original frets were small and low)

• Neck bowing or warping

• Headstock breaks (less common on 1960s than later models)

• Truss rod problems (early rods were less robust)

Electronics Problems:

• Failed or weak pickups (common with 60+ year old electronics)

• Scratchy or failed potentiometers

• Corroded selector switch contacts

• Replaced wiring harnesses

Common Modifications That Affect Value:

Reversible Modifications:

• Replacement tuners (Grovers were popular upgrades)

• Changed pickguard (affects value but replaceable)

• Nut replacement (common maintenance item)

• Re-fretting (necessary maintenance, minor value impact)

Significant Value Impact:

• Pickup replacements (major impact on collectibility)

• Neck refinishing or replacement

• Body refinishing or routing modifications

• Replacement of original electronics

Authentication Red Flags:

• Serial numbers outside the 40,000-58,000 range

• CTS potentiometers (should be Stackpole in 1960)

• Veneer rosewood fingerboards (changed in late 1962)

• Large headstock (CBS-era feature)

• Polyurethane finish (introduced later)

Why Players and Collectors Value 1960 Stratocasters

Playing Characteristics:

Exceptional Playability: The back of the neck continued to be a very thin C profile shape. The slim neck profile combined with the 7.25" radius fingerboard creates an incredibly comfortable playing experience that many consider superior to modern alternatives.

Tonal Versatility: The hand-wound pickups and quality electronics provide exceptional tonal range, from crystalline cleans to warm, musical overdriven tones.

Build Quality: The attention to detail and premium materials used in 1960 production create instruments that have stood the test of time remarkably well.

Collector Appeal:

Historical Significance: 1960 represents the peak of pre-CBS Stratocaster production, making these instruments important pieces of guitar history.

Rarity Factor: With production numbers relatively low compared to later years, 1960 Stratocasters are becoming increasingly rare in original condition.

Investment Potential: The value of an original 1950s or 1960s Stratocaster can be anywhere between $10,000 up to $200,000+ for rare and clean examples. Well-preserved examples have shown consistent appreciation over the past two decades.

Provenance and Documentation: Instruments with known histories, famous ownership, or exceptional condition command premium prices in today's market.

Selling Your 1960 Sunburst Stratocaster

If you own a 1960 Stratocaster, you possess one of the most desirable vintage electric guitars ever made. At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in purchasing these exceptional instruments and understand both their historical significance and current market value.

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars:

Premium Valuations: We typically offer 30-40% more than local guitar shops because we understand the true market value of pre-CBS Stratocasters and have buyers ready for exceptional examples.

Expert Authentication: Our team of vintage guitar experts can quickly and accurately authenticate your instrument, identifying all original components and assessing condition factors that affect value.

Immediate Cash Offers: No waiting periods or consignment fees. We make immediate cash offers on qualified instruments.

White-Glove Service: For high-value instruments like 1960 Stratocasters, we provide in-person evaluation and secure transaction handling.

Nationwide Service: We purchase instruments throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia, with travel available for exceptional examples.

Ready to sell your vintage Stratocaster? Get your free valuation today or call us directly at (440) 219-3607 for immediate assistance.

Related Resources for 1960 Stratocaster Owners

Authentication and Dating Resources:

• Complete Fender Serial Number Lookup Tool

• Fender Potentiometer Dating Guide

• How to Spot Refinished Stratocasters

• Neck Date Decoder for Vintage Fenders

Additional Model Information:

• 1959 Fender Stratocaster Guide - See the previous year's specifications

• 1961 Fender Stratocaster Guide - Compare with the following year's changes

• Pre-CBS Stratocaster Value Guide - Complete valuation information

Selling Resources:

• Vintage Guitar Selling Guide - Comprehensive guide to selling vintage instruments

• Authentication Services - Professional verification and documentation

• Insurance Appraisal Services - For insurance and estate purposes

  
  

Contact Edgewater Guitars Today

Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to you for high-value instruments like 1960 Stratocasters, providing secure, professional transactions with immediate payment.

Get Your Free Valuation:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607 for immediate assistance

• Online: Submit photos through our secure evaluation form

• Email: Contact our vintage guitar specialists directly

• In-Person: On-site evaluations available for qualified instruments

Why Sellers Choose Edgewater:

• Expertise: Deep knowledge of vintage Fender instruments and market values

• Fair Pricing: Consistently 30-40% above typical guitar shop offers

• Security: Professional handling and secure payment processing

• Convenience: We handle all aspects of the transaction

• Trust: Established reputation with satisfied sellers throughout the Midwest

Your 1960 Fender Stratocaster represents both musical history and significant financial value. Trust the experts at Edgewater Guitars to provide the professional service and fair pricing your vintage instrument deserves.

Contact us today to discover what your 1960 Stratocaster is worth in today's competitive vintage guitar market.

This guide was prepared by the vintage guitar experts at Edgewater Guitars, Ohio's premier vintage guitar buying service. Our team has evaluated and purchased hundreds of pre-CBS Stratocasters, providing sellers with expert authentication, fair pricing, and professional service throughout Ohio and neighboring states.