Charvel Surfcaster, red, made in Japan 2005. The Surfcaster is a cult-favourite Charvel model; it's quite a departure from the 'superstrat' and 'modern-T' style guitars Charvel are most famous for. The most recognised Surfcaster model is semi-hollow with a pair of lipstick pickups. This model seems to date to 2005 (the final year of production) and was a very short-lived release for the Japan market. The signature Surfcaster shape and pickguard are there, but the more modest solid red finish is a refreshing peculiarity and the HSS pickups offer some great tonal options. The neck and middle pickups offer a Strat-flavoured tone with some extra brightness, output and cut, while the bridge pickup offer a midrange hump and some additional natural compression while staying fairly well matched to the other pickups. The hardware is study: the two point trem is solid and smooth with great high mass saddles, the Charvel-branded tuners are reassuring and stable, the electronics are sturdy. As a vehicle for grunge, indie or surf, this is a quirky looking and brilliant sounding alternative to the classic Fender offsets; plus it's surely got to have significant appeal to collectors of the weird and wonderful in the guitar universe. 

Model: Charvel Surfcaster EM-SC
Made: Japan, 2005, (best estimate, serial 05120038)
Finish: corvette red, 3-ply white guard
Body: basswood
Neck: maple, satin finish w/ rosewood board, 12" radius, 25.5" scale
Weight: 3.6kg approx
Mods: none
Pickups: original Charvel flat-pole single coils (N+M) and humbucker (B)
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. There's a minor scuff on the end of the headstock. The neck is pretty clean. The back is almost flawless, just a couple of very slight scratches near the neck pocket and body contour. The sides are also very clean, extremely minor dimples on the shoulder and near the jack only.  The front has some very light scratches from play and some very minor dimples behind the bridge. Overall: excellent condition (9/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have almost no visible wear, 9/10 for life left. Setup with fresh 10/46 strings.