Up for sale, a 1965 Fender Mustang in excellent condition and in perfect working order, finished in Daphne Blue and complete with the original hardshell case. 100% original save for a modern nut, what sets this particular Mustang apart is the uncommon slab Brazilian rosewood fretboard. While a slab board is something typically reserved for Pre-CBS Fender instruments (in contrast with the thinner veneer boards which were the norm post-1962), this feature was also implemented only on Fender's short scale models in the mid-1960s for a couple short production runs like the example seen here.
This Mustang has a smooth, defined natural sound that translates well through the gray bobbin pickup pair. There's a bold chewy twang in the bridge position, and smooth bell-like cut and percussive snap at the neck. The Mustang also has the added benefit of a pair of three-way on/off/on pickup switches for an out-of-phase hollow quack when the switches are engaged in their innermost or outermost positions. Weighing 7lbs 5oz, this Mustang has been professionally setup here at Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar with fresh 10-46 strings, low action and accurate intonation.
Neck Specs:
-Wood: Maple
-Shape: Chunky C, full shoulders, measuring .860” 1st fret, .890” 12th fret
-Fretboard: Brazilian rosewood slab, 7 1/4” radius, dot inlay
-Frets: Slender, leveled and crowned, faint wear beneath the plain strings on frets 1-4
-Scale Length: 24”
-Nut: 1 9/16” (replacement)
-Tuners: Kluson Deluxe double-line
-Serialization: Six-digit stamp on F neck plate
-Factory Markings: December, 1965 date stamp on neck heel, "B" nut width
Body Specs:
-Wood: Alder
-Pickups: Gray bobbin single coil x2
-Harness: Untouched solder, CTS pots date to 42nd week of 1965
-Hardware: Bridge with barrel saddles, vibrato (chrome-plated)
-Plastics: Pointer knobs, three-ply white pearloid pickguard
The Daphne Blue nitro lacquer gloss gloss finish exhibits vertical checking and subtle greening of the clear coat. There is light buckle rash central to the back, a few minor finish chips, and some small marks and finish scuffs consistent with careful use. The neck profile retains its smooth gloss, with palm wear down to the bare maple behind frets 1-2 and a few shallow marks along the profile that are virtually undetectable to the palm.
The original hardshell case with a gray speckled exterior and black leather ends is included. The case has two functional (outer) latches and the original handle.