Fender VSP '54 Strat, black, crafted in Japan 2007. This is an example of the very well regarded 'Vintage Special Project' models; the highest-of-the-high-end Strats of it's day. These get all the best appointments: nitro topcoat finish, deluxe two-piece premium alder body, premium maple neck also finished in thin gloss nitro, cold-rolled steel block bridge with stamped saddles and in this case, a set of tasty Dimarzio pickups. It feels spectacular. The neck is a moderate soft-V profile, perfect if you're a habitual thumb-overhanger and super comfy and intuitive for switching between lead and rhythm playing. The body rings enthusiastically at the lightest touch, so there's a heap of zing and natural volume on offer even before you plug in. The pickups are not far from a Texas Special in terms of output and voicing, but they're a little more full and honky through the midrange. It's a tasty tone, into a slightly dirty valve amp there's a whole lot of fun to be had. Thick and convincing bass, a warm, singing midrange rounded out with a clear and talkative treble.... yum. The tuxedo finish is perfectly understated: classy clean lines with enough attitude to hold it's own in any setting. This is in the same kinda quality bracket as American Deluxe or American Vintage guitars, it's a serious piece of kit. Good enough for Sir Eric, good enough for you, no?

Model: Fender Vintage Special Project '54 Stratocaster (ST54-DMC/VSP) 
Made: Japan, 2006-8 , Dyna plant (serial S061701)
Finish: black, gloss nitro, 1-ply white guard
Body: alder, 2-piece
Neck: maple 1 piece inc board, soft-V profile, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius
Weight: 3.505kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Dimarzio Classic Vintage DSC-1 passive single coil x3
Case: basic gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor cosmetic wear. Headstock has some minor marks on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, just a few minor dimples on the back. The back has widespread light scuffs, dimples and surface scratches, no major marks. The sides have a few minor dimples on both horns and some light scuffs and marks on the elbow area and near the jack. The front has a handful of minor dimples around the whole body, as well as some play wear on the guard and horn; no major marks. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. Electronics tested and all working properly. Frets have some wear but heaps of life, 7/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.