1964 Fender Stratocaster in Candy Apple Red: The Last Year of Pre-CBS Excellence

The 1964 Fender Stratocaster represents the final chapter of Leo Fender's original vision before the CBS acquisition fundamentally changed the company's manufacturing philosophy. Among all the custom colors available in 1964, Candy Apple Red stands as one of the most visually striking and collectible finishes ever applied to a Stratocaster. These instruments capture both the refined craftsmanship of mature pre-CBS production and the bold aesthetic choices that defined mid-1960s American guitar culture.

What makes the 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster particularly significant is its position at the crossroads of guitar history. Built during Fender's most refined pre-CBS production period, these guitars feature the perfected manufacturing processes developed over a decade of Stratocaster production, combined with premium materials that would soon become cost-prohibitive under corporate ownership. The Candy Apple Red finish itself represents Fender's most ambitious custom color program, requiring multiple layers of specialized automotive paint that created an unmatched depth and brilliance.

Historical Context: Fender's Final Pre-CBS Year

The year 1964 marked the end of an era for Fender Musical Instruments Corporation. Leo Fender, facing health concerns and financial pressures, was in negotiations to sell his company to CBS, a deal that would close in January 1965. This transition created a unique urgency in production, as the company worked to fulfill orders while preparing for new ownership.

During 1964, Fender's Fullerton factory was operating at peak efficiency. The manufacturing processes that had been refined throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s were producing consistently excellent instruments. The workforce was experienced and stable, with many employees having worked on Stratocaster production since the model's introduction in 1954. This combination of mature processes and skilled craftspeople resulted in what many collectors consider the finest examples of American electric guitar manufacturing.

The custom color program in 1964 was at its most sophisticated. Candy Apple Red, introduced around 1962, had become one of Fender's most popular custom finishes. The color required a complex multi-stage process: first, a gold metallic base coat was applied, followed by a translucent red topcoat that created the signature "candy" effect. This process was labor-intensive and expensive, contributing to the premium pricing of custom color instruments.

Notable artists who embraced the Stratocaster during this period included Hank Marvin of The Shadows, whose Fiesta Red Stratocaster had popularized colored Fenders in Europe, and emerging American players who were drawn to the instrument's versatility and visual appeal. The British Invasion was beginning to introduce American audiences to the Stratocaster's potential, setting the stage for its explosive popularity later in the decade.

Current Market Value: 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster (2025 Update)

The market for 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters has experienced significant appreciation over the past decade, driven by increased collector recognition of pre-CBS instruments and the visual appeal of this particular finish combination. These guitars consistently command premium prices due to their rarity, historical significance, and stunning appearance.

Key Value Factors Specific to 1964 Candy Apple Red:

Color Preservation: The translucent red topcoat can fade or change hue with UV exposure. Examples retaining the original deep, rich red command the highest prices. Faded examples, while still valuable, typically bring 20-30% less than perfectly preserved examples.

Gold Base Coat Integrity: The underlying gold metallic base coat is crucial to the candy effect. Examples where this layer remains intact and visible through the red show the proper depth and brilliance that collectors seek.

Original Hardware: The gold-anodized aluminum pickguard and matching gold hardware (bridge, tremolo arm, tuners) were standard with Candy Apple Red. Complete original hardware packages add significant value.

Documentation: Original purchase receipts, case candy, or dealer documentation can add 10-15% to value, particularly for such a rare finish combination.

At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters, recognizing both their rarity and the sophisticated collector market for these instruments.

Detailed Identification Guide

Serial Numbers and Dating

1964 Stratocasters typically feature 5-digit serial numbers in the L-series, ranging from approximately L20000 to L60000. These numbers are stamped on the back tremolo cover plate. However, serial numbers alone aren't definitive for 1964 dating, as there was some overlap with 1963 and early 1965 production.

Neck Dating

The most reliable identifier is the pencil-written date on the heel of the neck, visible when the neck is removed from the body. 1964 necks typically show notations like "1-64" through "12-64" indicating the month and year of manufacture. Some necks may also show additional notations including the router's initials or inspection marks.

Potentiometer Codes

1964 Stratocasters used CTS (Chicago Telephone Supply) potentiometers with date codes that can be precisely decoded:

• 304 indicates CTS manufacturer

• 64 indicates year of manufacture (1964)

• Final two digits indicate the week of manufacture (01-52)

Example: A pot coded "3046435" would indicate CTS manufacture in the 35th week of 1964.

Candy Apple Red Specific Identifiers

Paint Code Documentation: Many Candy Apple Red Stratocasters retain the original paint code marking in the tremolo cavity or neck pocket. Look for masking tape remnants or pencil notations indicating "CAR" or "Candy Apple Red."

Base Coat Evidence: Examine areas of natural wear (strap button, output jack, tremolo cavity) for evidence of the gold metallic base coat beneath the red topcoat. This layered effect is essential to authentic Candy Apple Red finish.

Color Matching Hardware: Authentic 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters came standard with gold-anodized aluminum pickguards and gold-plated hardware including bridge, tremolo assembly, tuners, and control knobs.

Physical Construction Details

Body Wood: 1964 Stratocasters typically used alder bodies for colored finishes, chosen for its neutral grain pattern that wouldn't interfere with the paint finish.

Neck Construction: One-piece maple necks with rosewood fretboards became standard in 1964, replacing the earlier slab rosewood construction.

Pickup Routing: The pickup cavities in 1964 show the refined routing patterns developed over the model's ten-year production history.

Detailed Physical Specifications

Weight and Dimensions

1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters typically weigh between 7.5 and 8.5 pounds, with the paint layers adding minimal weight compared to natural finishes. The bodies measure approximately 12.75" wide, 16" long, and 1.75" thick.

Neck Specifications

Profile: The 1964 neck profile is characterized by a comfortable C-shape, slightly fuller than modern necks but refined from the chunkier profiles of the late 1950s.

Dimensions:

• Nut width: 1-5/8" (41.3mm)

• 12th fret depth: approximately 0.87"

• Fretboard radius: 7.25"

• Scale length: 25.5"

Fretboard: Brazilian rosewood became standard in 1964, featuring the characteristic dark chocolate color and tight grain pattern. Clay dot position markers were used rather than the pearloid dots found on later instruments.

Electronics and Hardware

Pickups: 1964 Stratocasters featured the classic three single-coil pickup configuration with staggered pole pieces. The pickups typically measure:

• Neck position: 5.8-6.2k ohms

• Middle position: 6.0-6.4k ohms

• Bridge position: 6.2-6.8k ohms

Bridge Assembly: The synchronized tremolo system featured a six-point mounting with vintage-style saddles and a tremolo arm that screwed directly into the bridge block.

Tuning Machines: Kluson Deluxe tuners with single-line "Kluson Deluxe" stamping and plastic oval buttons.

Electronics: The control layout featured one master volume and two tone controls, with a three-way pickup selector switch. The wiring harness used cloth-covered wire and ceramic disc capacitors.

Case and Accessories

1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters typically came with a brown Tolex hardshell case with orange plush lining. The case often contained the original tremolo arm, strap, and sometimes the original sales receipt or warranty information.

Tonal Characteristics

The 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster offers the quintessential pre-CBS Stratocaster tone, characterized by clarity, articulation, and dynamic response that has made these instruments legendary among players and collectors.

Sound Profile

The pickup system in 1964 Stratocasters produces a bright, clear tone with excellent note separation and harmonic complexity. The bridge pickup delivers the classic Stratocaster "spank" with plenty of bite for rhythm work and lead lines. The middle pickup provides a fuller, more balanced tone perfect for clean rhythm parts and blues work. The neck pickup offers a warmer, rounder tone ideal for jazz-influenced playing and smooth lead work.

Construction Impact on Tone

The alder body wood contributes to the balanced frequency response, providing solid bass foundation without muddiness and clear trebles without harshness. The bolt-on neck construction creates the characteristic Stratocaster attack and sustain, with excellent note articulation and quick decay that prevents notes from blurring together.

The vintage-style electronics, including the ceramic disc capacitors and cloth-covered wiring, contribute to the authentic vintage tone that modern reproductions struggle to replicate perfectly.

Comparison to Other Years

Compared to later CBS-era Stratocasters, the 1964 models offer superior wood selection, more refined pickup winding, and better overall construction quality. Compared to earlier pre-CBS models, the 1964 represents the culmination of evolutionary improvements in manufacturing and design.

Common Issues and Modifications

When evaluating a 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster, several condition factors require careful attention due to the instrument's age and the specific challenges associated with the custom paint finish.

Finish-Related Issues

Color Fading: The translucent red topcoat is susceptible to UV fading, which can result in color shifts ranging from subtle warming to dramatic change toward orange or pink hues. While faded examples retain value, collectors typically prefer examples with original color saturation.

Paint Checking: Nitrocellulose finishes naturally develop fine checking lines over time. On Candy Apple Red examples, this checking can be more visible due to the dark color contrast. Fine checking is considered normal aging, but extensive cracking may indicate storage issues.

Touch-up Work: Many examples show small touch-up repairs where the finish has chipped or worn through. Professional touch-ups using period-correct materials are generally acceptable, but amateur repairs can significantly impact value.

Hardware Modifications

Tuner Replacements: Many players upgraded the original Kluson tuners to Grover or Schaller models for improved tuning stability. While these modifications were often reversible, original Kluson tuners are preferred by collectors.

Bridge Modifications: Some examples show modifications to the tremolo system, including blocked tremolos or upgraded saddles. Original tremolo functionality is preferred for collector value.

Electronics Updates: Common modifications include pickup replacements, rewiring, or the addition of modern electronics. Original electronics significantly impact collector value.

Structural Concerns

Neck Pocket Wear: The bolt-on neck design can show wear in the neck pocket area, particularly around the bolt holes. This wear is typically cosmetic but should be evaluated for structural integrity.

Tremolo Cavity Wear: Heavy tremolo use can cause wear in the tremolo cavity routing. This wear pattern can actually help authenticate the instrument's age and usage history.

Authentication Concerns

The high value of 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters has led to various forms of counterfeiting and misrepresentation:

Complete Refinishes: Some later Stratocasters have been refinished in Candy Apple Red and misrepresented as 1964 examples. Careful examination of paint layers, hardware, and construction details is essential.

Converted Instruments: Some examples of common finishes have been stripped and refinished in Candy Apple Red. Examination of the gold base coat and paint build-up patterns can help identify these conversions.

Parts Replacement: Significant value differences between 1964 and later models have led to "year upgrades" where necks, bodies, or other components are swapped to create apparent 1964 examples.

Why Players and Collectors Value This Model

The 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster occupies a unique position in both player and collector markets, offering exceptional playing characteristics combined with undeniable visual appeal and historical significance.

Playing Characteristics

From a player's perspective, the 1964 Stratocaster represents the refinement of Leo Fender's original design philosophy. The neck profile strikes an ideal balance between comfort and stability, allowing for both rhythm work and lead playing without fatigue. The fretboard radius and fret size provide excellent playability across all positions, while the pickup system offers the versatility that made the Stratocaster the go-to instrument for countless musical styles.

The tremolo system in 1964 examples operates smoothly and returns to pitch reliably, providing the expressive capabilities that players prize in vintage Stratocasters. The overall setup and intonation capabilities remain excellent even after six decades, testament to the quality of the original manufacturing.

Collector Appeal

For collectors, the 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster represents multiple collecting themes simultaneously. As a pre-CBS instrument, it carries the cachet of Leo Fender's original company and manufacturing philosophy. As a custom color example, it represents the peak of Fender's custom finishing program. The specific color choice makes it one of the most visually striking Stratocasters ever produced.

The relative rarity of the color combination adds to its collector appeal. While exact production numbers aren't available, estimates suggest that fewer than 200 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters were produced in 1964, making them significantly rarer than standard Sunburst examples.

Investment Potential

From an investment standpoint, 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters have shown consistent appreciation over the past two decades. The combination of increasing recognition of pre-CBS instruments, limited supply, and growing collector interest in custom color examples has driven steady value increases.

The guitar's position at the end of the pre-CBS era, combined with its visual appeal and excellent playing characteristics, suggests continued strong collector interest. As baby boomer collectors age and begin liquidating collections, the finest examples are likely to become even more concentrated in serious collections.

Historical Significance

These instruments represent a pivotal moment in American guitar manufacturing. Built during the final year before corporate ownership changed Fender's manufacturing philosophy, they embody the craftsmanship and attention to detail that made American guitars the world standard.

The Candy Apple Red finish itself represents the optimism and bold aesthetic choices of mid-1960s American culture, making these instruments both musical and cultural artifacts.

Selling Your 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster

If you own a 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster, you possess one of the most desirable vintage electric guitars ever produced. Whether you're looking to liquidate an estate, downsize a collection, or simply capitalize on the current strong market, Edgewater Guitars offers the expertise and resources to ensure you receive maximum value for your instrument.

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars

Premium Valuations: Our expertise in vintage Fender instruments allows us to recognize the subtle details that determine value in rare instruments like 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocasters. We consistently offer 30-40% more than typical guitar shops because we understand the sophisticated collector market for these instruments.

Expert Authentication: Our team includes specialists in pre-CBS Fender instruments who can properly evaluate the originality and condition factors that determine value. We understand the specific details of 1964 construction and Candy Apple Red finish characteristics.

Immediate Cash Offers: Unlike consignment arrangements or online sales, we provide immediate cash offers with no waiting periods or uncertainty about final sale prices.

Discrete Transactions: We understand that high-value instruments require confidential handling. Our transaction process respects your privacy while ensuring proper documentation and security.

White-Glove Service: For instruments of this caliber, we provide in-home evaluation services throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. Our experts will travel to you with proper insurance and security protocols.

The Edgewater Advantage Over Other Options

Compared to Local Guitar Shops: Most local shops lack the specialized knowledge to properly evaluate rare custom color vintage Fenders. They often apply generic vintage guitar pricing that doesn't account for the specific premium factors in 1964 Candy Apple Red examples.

Compared to Online Sales: Selling through online platforms requires extensive photography, detailed descriptions, and extended interaction with potential buyers who may not understand the instrument's value. The process can take months and often results in lowball offers from uninformed buyers.

Compared to Auction Houses: While auction houses can achieve strong prices for exceptional examples, they charge significant seller's fees (typically 15-25%) and require extended consignment periods with uncertain outcomes.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation evaluation:

Phone: (440) 219-3607
Online: Complete our secure evaluation form at EdgewaterGuitars.com
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com

Our team is standing by to discuss your 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster and provide the expert guidance you need to make an informed selling decision.

Related Resources

Authentication and Dating Tools

• Fender Serial Number Database: Complete guide to Fender serial number dating for all years

• Pre-CBS Fender Identification Guide: Detailed visual guide to authentic pre-CBS features

• Custom Color Reference Guide: Comprehensive guide to Fender custom colors including paint codes and variations

• Potentiometer Dating Guide: How to decode pot dates for accurate instrument dating

Additional Vintage Fender Content

• 1963 Fender Stratocaster Guide: The previous year's specifications and values

• 1965 CBS-Era Transition Stratocaster: Understanding the changes after the CBS acquisition

• Fender Custom Color Program History: Complete overview of Fender's custom color offerings

• Pre-CBS vs. CBS Era Comparison: Detailed analysis of manufacturing changes

Selling Resources

• Vintage Guitar Selling Guide: Complete guide to selling vintage instruments

• Market Valuation Tools: Current market data and pricing trends

• Authentication Services: Professional authentication and documentation services

• Estate Planning for Guitar Collections: Planning considerations for valuable instrument collections

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster

The 1964 Fender Stratocaster in Candy Apple Red represents the convergence of exceptional craftsmanship, bold aesthetic vision, and historical significance. These instruments stand as monuments to American guitar manufacturing excellence and continue to inspire players and collectors worldwide.

Whether you're a current owner considering selling, a collector seeking to acquire one of these remarkable instruments, or simply an enthusiast appreciating their historical significance, the 1964 Candy Apple Red Stratocaster demands recognition as one of the finest electric guitars ever produced.

If you own one of these exceptional instruments, Edgewater Guitars stands ready to provide the expertise, service, and fair market valuation you deserve. Our deep knowledge of vintage Fender instruments and commitment to excellence ensures that you'll receive the maximum value for your treasured guitar.

Contact Edgewater Guitars today: (440) 219-3607

About the Author: The Edgewater Guitars team includes certified vintage guitar appraisers with over 25 years of combined experience in pre-CBS Fender instruments. Our expertise in authentication, valuation, and market analysis ensures accurate, up-to-date information for vintage guitar owners throughout the Midwest.