Fender Japan Stratocaster, refinished in satin trans-black, made in Japan 1986-7. This is a classy take on the classic tuxedo-Strat, it's a very attractive item. This one arrived semi-stripped and in a sad state of disrepair, so it's been to visit our brilliant buddy Jon Parsons for a new lease on life. Jon's applied a semi-transparent black, finished in satin oil and with a very light relic. It's really quite stunning! The black has a tinge of chocolate peaking through, and the grain is subtly peaking through the thin finish. Being such a light finish, it really lets the guitar breathe, so this has a really sweet open, expansive tone. There's a nice balance of delicacy and swagger; it's a tonal delight. The satin will wear quickly to gloss around the high contact areas, lending some extra depth and majesty to the look as the the play-hours stack up. Being a 'current' model in it's day, this has the nice satin-finish neck to match, as well as the 80s-era logos and the sensible truss rod adjuster. It's light and lively in the hands, it's quite difficult to put down once you get going. This is a classy, sleek and unique beauty; it'll surely liven up your lounge room and/or live set!

Model: Fender Japan Stratocaster (neck stamped w/non catalog 'ST33 model, appears to be the full scale version of the Boxer medium scale Strat)
Made: Japan, Fujigen plant, 1986-87 (serial F016621)
Finish: hand-rubbed trans-black relic, oil finish, 3-ply white guard
Body: basswood (approx total weight 3.5kg)
Neck: maple with maple board, dot inlays
Mods: wiring replaced (orange drop cap, USA jack and CTS pots installed), re-finished
Pickup: original Fender Japan ST-single
Case: Fender branded gig-bag

Cosmetic condition notes: relic finsh. The's plenty of miles on the clock before this was refinished, so there's a few marks on the neck and headstock, some pitting on the chrome, and plenty of yellowing and play-wear on the plastics. The black is thin and oil based, so it's designed to wear in quickly with play to match the rest of the guitar. 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, note the recent upgrades and re-wire as listed above. Frets look fine, normal wear but height in them and pretty even, 7/10 for life left. Set up with fresh 10/46s.