Hi guys!
This question has to do with the '62 RI stratocaster and the HOT ROD '62 RI.

As far as I know, both guitars have Nitro finish. But, the Hot Rod has a "Thin skin" finish. I've research about this topic and in seems that the 62 RI has a urethane layer first, and then on top of it the Nitro finish. And it seems the Hot Rod has only a 'thin layer' of Nitro.

1. is this true??
2. if it is, will the Hot Rod worn faster than the regular RI?
3. will the regular RI not worn at all just like a Polyurethane finish?

I'm in the process of learning the whole finish concept.
I just bought a Regular '62 RI (vintage white used and mint condition) and I would love if the body starts 'worning' fast... I own a 1997 American Standard since it was new and has thousands of gigs in its body and the finish is practically intact.

Thanks!
Christian.

Both guitars have a polyurethane undercoat from what I've discovered. Its always been done that way since 84. Up to 68 they used fullerplast among other things.

Hotrods wear really really quickly, stupidly quickly infact. Mine has been absolutely babied in the 18 months I've owned it. Its showing 2 dings. The beginings of a wear mark on the back and a line of paint sink on the front. I honestly do not know how these have happened. The guitar lives in its case and gets played very carefully once a week. I even make sure there are no hard objects in the vicinity, including trouser wear with buttons and rivets.

A regular RI will wear just like a regular 50's/60's strat will, over time.

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No no and no

Thats one of the reasons i bought a 57 RI instead of the hot rod. i wanted it to age slowly and gracefully as i mature as a player, im 19, so it be with me for a long time. Plus among other things like all vintage specs, i love vintage My 57RI is awesome and even though the finish is a little thicker its still very delicate. i got two dings on the bottom part of the body within the first few months i got it......oops lol. at the time i wans't aware how delicate the finish was compared to poly. The Vintage Reissues are AWESOME!!

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American Vintage '57 Strat
Super Champ XD

Thanks a lot Nikininja!!
I know that nitro let the body "breathe" according to what some say... I guess when I get the guitar in my hands I can compare...

Christian.

...That's what I've heard man...

Christian.