History SZ-1MG, sonic blue, made in Japan 2003. The History brand is a collaboration between legendary builder Fujigen Gakki and Shimamura Gakki, one of the major music store chains in Japan. They enjoy a brilliant reputation for quality in Japan, but seldom venture outside the local market, so we mostly miss out on these little gems in the rest of the world. Fujigen Gakki made all those iconic Fender Japan guitars from 1982-96, most of the 'lawsuit' Grecos, all the valuable vintage Ibanez models as well as their current Prestige series... they've been building exceptional instruments for decades now and don't look like stopping anytime soon. There was a couple of versions of this model, this one is the full 25.5" scale with a set of hot HSS pickups. The pickups look and sound similar to a Duncan Quarter Pound, with the big chunky flat pole pieces and a moderately hot wind. The single coils are awesome: plonky and full with a beefy bass response and a whole lot of midrange nuance and clarity. The middle pickup is especially tasty... it's so responsive and full while offering heaps of snarky attack. The bridge pickup is fairly aggressive and does it's best work with a generous dose of dirt, offering a pronounced midrange with heaps of poke and zing. The neck is comfy and slick and blessed with a gorgeous slab of streaky rosewood for the board, it's very easy to get around on. The lightly faded sonic blue finish is such a good look, paired with the contrasting pickups and mint green guard, this offers a slightly meaner twist on a classic summery look. This is a frightfully good guitar for the cash, and it looks all sorts of cute.

Model: History SZ-1MG
Made: Japan, 2003, Fujigen plant, (serial C030157)
Finish: sonic blue, 3-ply mint green guard
Body: basswood
Neck: maple, rosewood board, 12" radius, 25.5" scale, U shape
Weight: 3.730kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fujigen VSA-1 single coil x2, VHA-1 humbucker (bridge)
Case: basic gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some minor dimples on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has some minor dimples on the back edge and widespread minor scuffs around the whole body. The sides have a couple of dimples in the elbow area and bottom horn, as well as some dents near the jack. The front has some scuffs in the elbow area and dimples near the rear strap pin and some standard play wear on the guard and horns. 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 have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.