1973 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst (W162)

The Sunburst Fender Stratocaster with a large headstock is a classic configuration that’s highly sought after, especially by guitar enthusiasts and collectors. 

• Color Variations: The center of the body has a lighter tone (typically amber or natural wood color) that gradually fades out to darker hues (often black or brown) along the edges. The most common sunburst variations are 3-tone sunburst (light center, with orange, yellow, and red shades) and 2-tone sunburst (lighter center with darker outer edges).

• Classic and Vintage Appeal: The sunburst finish is iconic and has been a favorite choice since the late 1950s.

• Time Period: The large headstock configuration is commonly associated with Fender Stratocasters from the mid to late 1960s (1965–1969). In 1965, Fender made a transition to this larger headstock design, which stayed around until the 1970s.

• Shape and Size: The headstock is noticeably larger than the earlier, smaller headstocks. It has a more pronounced “swoop” on the sides, making it appear bulkier and more distinctive.

• Logo Placement: The "Fender" logo on large headstocks is typically gold (or later, in some instances, silver or black), and sometimes you’ll find the “STRATOCASTER” decal written in a “Spaghetti” style font (on 1960s models) or a “Transition” logo (early 70s models).

• Material: The Stratocaster’s body is usually made from alder or ash, with alder being more common in later models. These woods contribute to the Strat's signature balanced tone.

• Contour and Shape: The Stratocaster body has a double-cutaway design, which provides excellent upper fret access. The body is contoured, making it comfortable to play while standing.

• Maple Neck: Typically, the neck is made of maple, often with a rosewood or maple fretboard.

• Neck Shape: The neck usually has a C-shaped profile that is fairly slim and comfortable for most players, especially those who prefer faster playing.

• Scale Length: Like most Fender Stratocasters, it has a 25.5" scale length, which gives it a bright, snappy tone with excellent sustain.

• Three Single-Coil Pickups: The Stratocaster is equipped with three single-coil pickups, which are responsible for its bright, bell-like tones. The pickup configuration is often bridge, middle, and neck.

• Pickup Switching: The Strat typically has a 5-way pickup selector switch that allows for a variety of tonal options, ranging from the sharp bridge pickup to the mellow neck pickup. The middle position offers a balance of both, and some positions mix pickups for unique tones.

• Bridge: Traditionally, the Strat has a synchronized tremolo bridge (also known as a "whammy bar"), which allows players to add vibrato effects. Some versions have vintage-style tremolos, while others may have a more modern two-point tremolo system.

• Tuners: The large headstock often comes with vintage-style tuners that are either clover or oval-shaped, contributing to its classic look.

• The Fender Stratocaster is known for its bright, sharp, and articulate tone. It has a wide tonal range, making it highly versatile for genres like rock, blues, country, and pop.

• The comfort and smoothness of the neck, combined with the easy access to higher frets, makes it a favorite for lead guitarists and those who like to play intricate solos.

• The combination of the sunburst finish and large headstock gives it a very classic, vintage vibe. It's often sought after by collectors who want to replicate the guitars played by legendary musicians like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, or David Gilmour (who used a sunburst Strat with a large headstock during iconic performances).

The Sunburst Fender Stratocaster with a large headstock is a classic, with a perfect blend of vintage style, timeless appeal, and versatility. It’s a piece of history for players who want that signature Fender tone with the aesthetic of the '60s. Whether you’re a collector or a performer, it’s a guitar that stands out for both its beauty and its sonic characteristics.