Squier Silver Series Telecaster STL-33 Black 1993
Squier Telecaster, black, made in Japan 1993. The Silver Series were Squier's brief but glorious return to Japanese manufacturing, having moved production to Korea in the late 80s. They were made at the always-excellent Fujigen Gakki factory to a very high standard and enjoy an excellent reputation to this day. This has a 'top loader' bridge: no strings through the body, they just load into the back of the bridge. That adds a certain lively sparkle to the top end: this is alive and kicking, with heaps of shimmer and detail through the highs and a full, fat, wide midrange. It really does sound great: simple and unassuming, but full and rich and bright, and that Duncan pickup is a handy bonus, adding some punch and warmth to the classic Tele twang. The neck is a highlight too: really good maple, carved to a comfy slim C, finished in satin... they don't make them like they used to. The black-on-black guard and finish was standard on this model too, which has a bit of punk-meets-tux swagger to it. Very cool.
Model: Squier Silver Series Telecaster STL33
Made: Japan, 1992-3, Fujigen Gakki factory
Serial: Q035779
Finish: black, gloss poly
Body: basswood
Neck: maple, maple fretboard, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius, vintage C shape
Weight: 3.500kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender Japan TL-Single single coil (neck), Seymour Duncan STL-2 Tele Hot Lead single coil (bridge)
Accessories: none
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has minor dimples on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and some rub wear on the back only. The back has some surface scratches on the top horn, scuffs in the middle of the body, bottom corner, elbow area and back edge and some rub wear on the bottom horn. The sides have minor dimples on both horns, a chip and some scuffs in the elbow area and some scuffs near the jack. The front has dimples on the top horn and elbow area, scuffs around the control plate and bridge and some 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 electronics tested and working properly. Wearing fresh 10/46 strings.
Fret life: 8/10, minor wear only