1979 Fender Stratocaster – Original Dakota Red (Cherry Red) – USA

Offered here is a beautiful vintage 1979 Fender Stratocaster finished in its original Dakota Red — a rich, solid gloss red often referred to by collectors as Cherry Red. The colour has aged gracefully over time, developing a warm vintage hue, without the metallic flake of Candy Apple Red or the orange tones associated with Fiesta Red.

Paired with a black 3-ply pickguard and maple neck, this guitar perfectly captures the bold, unmistakable late-’70s Fender aesthetic.

Manufactured at Fender’s Fullerton, California plant, this Stratocaster comes with its original Polverini hard case, as supplied when sold in Italy.

🎸 Tone & Feel

This Strat plays and sounds every bit as good as it looks — delivering bright, articulate single-coil tones, smooth playability, and the characteristic punch associated with late-’70s Fender craftsmanship. The finish shows light, natural wear consistent with age, adding genuine character without detracting from its visual appeal.

At 46 years old, this is a highly sought-after vintage Stratocaster that has clearly been very well cared for.

🔥 Highlights

• 1979 Fender Stratocaster
• Original Dakota Red finish (often referred to as Cherry Red)
• Made in Fullerton, California
• Original Polverini hard case
• Classic late-’70s black pickguard / maple neck combination
• Light, honest wear consistent with age
• Excellent example from the CBS era

📋 Specifications

• Model: Fender Stratocaster
• Year: 1979
• Finish: Dakota Red (solid, non-metallic)
• Body: Alder
• Neck: Maple, bolt-on
• Fretboard: Maple, 21 frets
• Scale Length: 25.5" (648 mm)
• Pickups: 3 × Fender single-coil pickups
• Controls: Master Volume, 2 × Tone, 5-way selector
• Hardware: Chrome
• Pickguard: Black 3-ply
• Tuners: Fender “F” stamped
• Bridge: Vintage-style synchronized tremolo
• Weight: Approx. 4.1 kg (without case)
• Condition: Excellent for age — light natural wear, parts appear period-correct
• Nut: Appears to have been replaced at some point (likely bone)

🛠️ Recent Professional Setup

Recently taken out for photography and professionally set up in October 2025 by
Pearson Instrument Repairs & Music Services (Wexford, Ireland):

• Electronics and hardware checked & cleaned
• Frets polished
• Fretboard oiled
• Restrung with 9–42 gauge strings
  ➡️ Plays perfectly and is ready to go

📦 Case & Extras

• Original Polverini hard case
• Guitar strap
• Polishing cloth
• Allen keys
• Tremolo bar
• Fender Bullet clip-on tuner
  (All items shown in photos are included)

📜 Provenance

• Purchased from a private owner in Sicily, Italy in 2020
• Carefully stored since acquisition

⭐ Why This Guitar?

Late-’70s Stratocasters continue to grow in desirability, and original-finish examples like this are becoming increasingly scarce. With its approaching 50-year milestone, this Strat represents an excellent opportunity for both players seeking authentic vintage tone and collectors who value originality and condition.

A standout CBS-era Stratocaster with classic looks, tone, and history.

Shipping & Sale Terms:
This instrument is currently offered for sale within Europe only. Sale is completed exclusively through Reverb checkout to ensure full protection for both buyer and seller. Due to value and insurance requirements, international shipping outside Europe is not offered on this item.