Is there a way to tell by the serial number if the Strat I'm looking at is indeed a '62 reissue Hot rod?

It will begin with a V, but then again so will a 62 vintage reissue. Other than that no. Even when you get inside and look at the neck/body pocket or pickup cavities there are no distinguishing features that seperate it from any other strat. Other than measuring the fretboard radius (it should be 9.5") and checking the pickups are correct theres no other way i can think of.

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No no and no

The regular '62 Reissue has a Tinded neck, the Hot Rod '62 does not.

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It's a mix between Jazz and Funk, it's called "Junk"

Thanks, I'll go see it tomorrow. Should it have the old style tuners on it, Kluson, I think, like my '52 reissue?

It should have vintage style tuners, satin finish on a very thick neck and the second tone should control the bridge pickup. Good luck, the Hot Rod is one of my favorites.

Hello pts295,

62 hotrod has a much larger neck than the 62 reissue.
and like Niki said 9.5r on the hotrod , 7.25r on the reissue.

The reissue also comes from the factory with a 3 position switch
installed and a extra 5 position for later installation if the
owner desires.

The reissue also wears a nice thickish coat of glossy
nitro on the body and neck.

The reissue also comes with the ashtray bridge cover.

The Hotrod is equipped with a 5 position rev wound/rev polarity
middle pickup.

Hope this helps.

Cheers.