Genuine Vintage Fender 1964 Stratocaster vs Custom Shop Replica | Is Vintage Worth It?

It's not every day we get the chance to play a real 1964 Fender Stratocaster. That's why we immediately seized the opportunity when this Stratocaster came in! So we can finally answer the age-old question: is vintage really better than a Custom Shop replica?
October 8, 2024 by
Thijmen van der Hoeve
| No comments yet

Loyal viewers of our New Arrivals have seen this vintage​ Fender Stratocaster from 1964 passed by before. At first glance, you immediately notice the four screw holes behind the bridge, most likely from a synth pickup, and the guitar is also equipped with a stereo jack. Despite these modifications, this Stratocaster still retains the magic of a vintage model! So Maico & Milo take a closer look at this piece of history and contrast it with a Fender '60s Stratocaster from The Custom Shop. The question is: Is vintage really better than today's Custom Shop replicas?

Fender Stratocaster Sunburst 1964

This Stratocaster still features the original sunburst with a bright red color typical of the early 1960s, with the yellow undercoat also clearly visible. The original mint green pickguard houses the three single coils, with the neck and bridge pickups untouched, and the middle pickup rewound by Swedish pickup guru Johan Lundgren of Lundgren Pickups. Behind the bridge are four screw holes from a processor of very likely a synthesizer pickup, and the guitar is hereby also equipped with a stereo jack.

Check out the '64 Fender Stratocaster Here!

Fender Custom Shop 61 Stratocaster 3 Color Sunburst Heavy Relic

This Custom Shop '61 Strat features a mesmerizing Super Heavy Relic finish. Its worn aesthetic brings an indescribable playing experience, as if this Strat has already experienced countless stages. This Strat is a true masterpiece that captures the essence of 1961, with a rebellious twist that only the Fender Custom Shop can offer!


Its Alder body adds depth and resonance, with a dark, rich color reminiscent of a vintage classic that has stood the test of time. The quartersawn maple neck has a solid “C” profile for a comfortable and inspiring playing experience, while Pallisander fingerboard again contributes to its deep rich color.​ 

Check out the Custom Shop Fender Stratocaster Here!

Genuine Vintage Fender 1964 Stratocaster vs Custom Shop Replica | Is Vintage Worth It?

See the differences between two great guitars from completely different eras. Maico & Milo dive into the unique features of a 1964 vintage Fender Stratocaster and a Custom Shop Fender '60s Stratocaster. Is the “magic” of a vintage instrument really worth it, or does a modern replica offer the same enchantment? Find out in our latest video!
Sign in to leave a comment