Offered up today is a vintage 1983 Fender Stratocaster in Olympic White, complete with its original hard case. This is a true player’s guitar with real miles on it — the kind of Strat that’s clearly seen barrooms, loud stages, and long nights, exactly as a good Strat should.  The Olympic White finish has naturally yellowed over time, giving it an authentic vintage patina, with the expected bumps, dings, and wear from years of gigging (please see photos). The maple neck shows some lacquer flaking between the 3rd and 6th frets; this is purely cosmetic and does not affect playability or tone in any way. The guitar plays smoothly and sounds excellent, with the classic Strat feel and response intact. It includes a modern Fender tremolo arm.  This instrument comes from the late Dan Smith era, a unique and increasingly appreciated transitional period for Fender. For 1983 and 1984, Fender introduced this version of the Stratocaster—commonly referred to as the Standard Stratocaster (not to be confused with the later Mexican-made models). This short-lived design features the distinctive Freeflyte surface-mounted vibrato system with no rear cavity, a top-mounted input jack, and a simplified two-knob control layout with the third tone control deleted. These features were exclusive to this two-year production run.  The guitar includes its original Fender hard case. The case is in very rough condition, with one missing hinge and duct tape reinforcement, but it still securely holds and protects the guitar.  If you’re looking for a real-deal early ’80s Strat with character, history, and excellent playability, don’t pass this one up. Item pictured is the item you will receive.