This Mocha Brown Stratocaster, serial number 569484, is a good example of Fender’s mid-1970s craftsmanship—boasting historical significance, near-original condition, and a complete set of original case candy. Originally purchased at Euromusic Parys Flore in Brussels Belgium.
The guitar sports a rare, clear Mocha finish with darker edges—a beautiful and highly unusual “Mocha burst” effect. Unlike the standard flat Mocha finishes of the era, this variant shows the wood grain beneath the transparent brown, creating a rich depth in the center that subtly darkens toward the edges. It's an extremely uncommon look, elevating this guitar’s desirability among collectors and vintage tone seekers.
Introduced in 1973, the Mocha Brown color was always paired with a black pickguard, but it wasn’t until 1975 that Fender standardized all-black plastic hardware. This Strat, built during that transition, features the classic black pickguard and black tremolo plate, paired with white pickup covers, control knobs, and switch tip—a configuration seen only for a brief period, adding further rarity and charm.
It retains its original trio of grey bottom single-coil pickups, known for their articulate, vintage-correct tone. These pre-Fall 1974 pickups feature staggered pole pieces, contributing to that unmistakable ‘70s Strat sound—bright, chimey, and responsive across all registers.
While overall in excellent condition, this guitar does have a few dings along the side, consistent with careful use over the decades. The body finish remains glossy, the frets show minimal wear, and all electronics function flawlessly. It's an ideal guitar for players who appreciate vintage tone and feel, without sacrificing originality.
What truly sets this instrument apart is its completeness. It comes in the original Fender hardshell case with all original case candy, including the bridge cover, tremolo bar, case key, inspection tag, hangtag, original strap, and even the business card from Euromusic Parys Flore—a full set rarely seen intact after 50 years.
This Mocha burst Stratocaster offers a blend of aesthetic rarity, transitional-era history, and musical integrity. Whether you’re a collector looking for something truly special or a player seeking authentic vintage tone with undeniable character, this guitar is a rare and rewarding find.
Specifications
- Serial Number: 569484
- Neck Stamp: 0903
- Weight: 3.55kgs
- Potentiometer Dates: 137-7406 (CTS, week 06 of 1974)
- Pickup Configuration: Grey bottom single coils with staggered poles
- Pickup stamp: 23 1974
- Pickguard: Black, 3-ply
- Plastic Parts: White knobs, switch tip, and pickup covers
- Finish: Transparent Mocha Brown with darker edges (“Mocha burst”)
- Case: Original Fender hardshell case
- Accessories: Bridge cover, tremolo arm, hangtag, case key, inspection tag, strap, business card from Euromusic Parys Flore