Squier SST30 Strat, made in Japan 1987, black. These E serial examples were made in the same factory by the same hands as the Fender Japan models of the era, a couple of short years after the famed JV serial instruments announced a return to form for Fender in 1982-4. The neck is really quite something: it's carved to a comfy slim vintage C shape, the back features some gorgeous concentric maple grain and the board is a dark, rich piece of open-pore rosewood. It feels incredible too, it's hard to overstate how magic it feels in the hands. The tone is classic-Strat spank, but with a sweet and delicate top end that lends sparkle and nuance to your notes and a self-assured, weighty bass. The black-on-black look works perfectly with the rosewood board and golden maple headstock, it's a perfect mix of business and party. I'd wager these E-serial Squiers are going to be worth a pretty penny one day, so get ahead of the game while they're still pretty manageable. Sweet.

Model: Squier Stratocaster SST30
Made: Japan, 1985-7, no neck date, Fujigen plant (serial E738345)
Finish: black, black 3-ply guard
Body: basswood
Weight: 3.510kg
Neck: maple, rosewood board, 7.25" radius, 25.5" scale, slim C shape
Mods: middle pickup replaced with mid 90s Fender Japan ST-Single, 5-way switch replaced, back cover removed and missing
Pickups: Fender Japan ST Single x3
Case: very basic gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some 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 a dent near the neck plate and on the bottom horn, as well as some widespread light scuffs around the body. The back plate is missing. The sides have minor dimples on the both horns, some scuffs and marks near the jack and a pair of minor chips in the waist area on the top edge. The front has a couple of dimples on the back edge and near bridge, as well as scuffs near the jack and elbow area and some standard play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: good condition (7/10)

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. Setup with fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.