Fender Lee Ranaldo Jazzmaster, sapphire blue, made in USA 2013. I remember when Fender released this model: both Lee and his Sonic Youth bandmate Thurston Moore got a signature Jazzmaster in 2009, and I thought they were the coolest thing Fender had done for years. Not many bands epitomise that 90s 'wall of guitars' sound like Sonic Youth, so the recognition of their contribution was certainly warranted. The model, also known as a Jazz Blaster, sports the iconic JM body shape, but with some cool unique touches: a Mustang style bridge, anodized black aluminium guard, a pair of Tele Deluxe style Wide Range humbuckers, a single volume control with a speed knob, a cool trans-blue satin nitro finish with a black headstock... heck, that's some tasty appointments. It feels great: the offset body is perfectly balanced, the neck is comfy and agreeably shaped with a lovely slick finish and the bridge helps with string stability. The pickups are a personal favourite of mine, I'm a longtime Wide Range fan. The neck pickup is full and weighty but also clear and glassy, with great articulation and body. The bridge pickup is a little more angular and snarky, perfect for pushing a dirty amp into a creamy growl and still eloquent when paired with a generous dose of gain or fuzz. It's safe to say this looks fantastic, and despite being ten years old it could almost pass for new from a foot or two away. These were never made in large numbers and come up for sale approximately never in Australia, so if you've been waiting for one, here's your chance.

Model: Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster
Made: USA, Corona plant, neck date Apr 2013 (serial US13048301)
Finish: sapphire blue transparent, satin nitro, 1-ply anodized black guard
Body: alder
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 7.25" radius, 25.5" scale, slim C shape
Weight: 3.750kg
Mods: none
Pickup: Fender Wide Range humbucker x2
Case: original Fender G&G hard case, original docs and hang tags and trem arm all included

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has no major marks. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, very minor dimples on the back only. The back has some minor rub wear along the belly carve and near the neck plate as well as a very small chip near the edge in the elbow area. The sides have light rub wear on both horns and the elbow area and some light scuffs near the jack. The front has some light rub wear in the elbow area and on the horns. Overall: excellent condition (9/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. The frets are in great shape, 9/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 11/49 Moonshiners strings.