Fender '57 Strat, made in Japan 1995-6, two tone sunburst. This is pretty much the archetypal Strat, and it really does the job well. The '57 style chunky D-shape neck is comfy and reassuring in the hands, plus that maple board feels nice and slick under the fingers. This is a remarkably lightweight example at 3.2kg, which makes it super agreeable for long sets but also serves to amp up the natural resonance and bass response. The pickups deliver a bright, snappy, articulate take on the classic Strat-spank, and there's a lovely contrast between the warm and friendly neck pickup and the abrupt, crunchy bridge tones. The two tone burst finish is a perennial favourite and looks all the better for a couple of decades of play wear on the clock; paired with the golden maple board and headstock, it's a great vintage aesthetic. Does the thing!

Model: Fender Stratocaster '57 Reissue (ST57-70)
Made: Japan, Fujigen Plant, 1995-6  (serial N096193)
Finish: 2-tone sunburst (2TS), 1-ply white guard
Body: basswood
Neck: maple with maple board, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius
Weight: 3.225kg
Mods: back cover removed and missing
Pickups: Fender USA ST-Vintage single coil x3
Case: basic non-original gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. The headstock has a few minor dimples on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has a few dents on the top and bottom edges, pus some dimples along the belly carve and some scuffs on the bottom corner, no major marks. The sides have a few dimples in the elbow area, near the jack and on the bottom horn. The front has dimples on the back edge, in the elbow area and on the top horn, as well as some normal play wear on the guard. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. The frets look to be recently dressed and polished, so they're nice and even with no buzz issues but there is some height gone, 7/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.