This is one of the Strats I own which feature a default string retainer. As depicted above, the retainer itself comes into contact with the headstock surface. If you are re-stringing your guitar, you need to press the strings down to release it from the retainer's catch. Scratching the headstock surface is inevitable.
Simple solution - purchase a spacer that helps elevate the retainer off the headstock surface. It might affect the vintage vibe of the instrument but this is the least of my worries; I am more interested with problem-solving.
