Fender '62 Strat, dakota red, crafted in Japan 2002-4. We get plenty of candy apple red Strats through the shop, but this non-metallic vibrant dakota red is a non-catalog colour and far less common. It's looking amazing for a guitar that's around twenty years old, it's obviously been well cared for. The red really pops too, it's a great colour. The neck is a slim, rounded C shape, which feels great in the hands. These '62 style models tend to find favour in the shop for their neck shape, it's comfy and intuitive. Plugged in, this is snappy and chiming with a fun percussive bass. There's plenty of sparkle on the top end balanced by a tasteful depth through the lows and mids. These early 00s Fender Japan models offer more personality and a more convincing tone than the current new offerings, I reckon they're really fun guitars with a lot to offer. 

Model: Fender Stratocaster (ST62-58US)
Made: Japan, 2002-04, Dyna plant (serial Q076008)
Finish: dakota red (DKR), 3-ply white guard
Body: basswood
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius, slim vintage C shape
Weight: 3.740kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender USA ST-Vintage single coil x3  
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some minor dimples on the end and on the back near the nut. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has some light scuffs on the bottom horn and back edge, no major marks. The sides have some minor dimples near the knobs and on the bottom horn. The front has some dimples in the elbow area and some standard play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Setup with fresh 10/46 strings.