(SOLD) Fender Japan '62 Stratocaster ST62-110 Sunburst 1993
Fender '62 Strat, sunburst, made in Japan 1993-4. At first glance, this looks like a pretty regular MIJ Strat. But... this is the first example of this model I've ever had in my hands. The '-110' at the end of the model number on this denotes the original price in 1993 Japanese Yen: ¥110000, over twice the price of the regular '62 model. For the extra cash, you get some nice appointments: USA ST-Vintage pickups, vintage style wiring with a three way switch, a high mass steel block tremolo bridge and most notably, a gloss nitro finish. The nitro looks amazing in the flesh; it catches the light differently to a regular poly finish and has a certain majestic aura. The thin finish lets the tightly grained high grade alder body show through visually, but it also lets it speak sonically. The tone is gorgeous: bright and crisp on the treble, with a rounded bell like low end that feels and sounds superbly tight and satisfying. This compares extremely favourably to high end USA made Strats that sell for twice the price on the used market in both feel and tone. Speaking of feel: that neck, oh boy. The '62 profile is slim and round, an instant favourite with many players we get through the shop. This one in particular is blessed with a gorgeous tightly grained piece of maple and a stunning piece of rosewood... you don't get pieces like this on a new guitar really. So, it's the classic 'sleeper': looks like a regular joe Strat, but it's packed with the good stuff under the hood and delivers a sublime experience to both the hands and the ears.
Model: Fender '62 Reissue Stratocaster (ST62-110)
Made: Japan, Fujigen plant, 1993-4 (serial M017909)
Finish: three tone sunburst (3TS), gloss nitro, 3-ply cream guard
Body: alder
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 7.25" radius, 25.5" scale
Weight: 3.575kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender USA ST-Vintage x3
Case: basic non original gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has a few 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 chip on the top and bottom horns as well as some widespread minor dimples and scuffs. The sides have very minor scuffs and dimples around the whole body; no major marks. The front is pretty tidy, just a few dimples around the outside edge and light scuffs around the body, plus some standard play wear on the guard and horn. Overall: very good condition (8/10).
Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have some minor wear, they're in good shape; 8/10 for fret life left. Setup with fresh 10/46 Mooonshiners strings.