I never thought I would want to get a proper American Fender Stratocaster. But the last two weeks I was searching for one. I have learned that the right Fender Strats can appreciate in value. I shortlisted some vintage strats within my budget, namely the 70s, 80s and 90s. I was also keeping track of the American Vintage Reissues (AVRI) and the Custom Shops.
So I found the cheapest 70s strat in a 1979 sienna sunburst. The owner(not the first) offered her in a trade deal for my surf green thinline. It would have cost me only 2.4 to own her. Then, I found the cheapest AVRI in a 2012 ’56 strat in aged white blonde. I tried both 79 and 56. I prefer the latter. I even tried a 1984 standard strat. But she has several non-original parts. I also found the cheapest Custom Shop strat in a Custom Classic that was listed at about 3.
After two days of consideration, I went for the AVRI for slightly under 2. She plays well and looks cool with all signs of aging from both factory relic and natural play wear. This is the 2012 Fender American Vintage Reissue ’56 Stratocaster.
I’m only just beginning to embrace the beauty of the stratocaster and time will tell if this ’56 will stay long.
And she does look like the James Tyler that I previously owned.