Charvel Surfcaster, black, made in Japan 2005. The Surfcaster is a cult-favourite Charvel model; it's quite a departure from the 'superstrat' and 'modern-T' style guitars Charvel are most famous for. The most recognised Surfcaster model is semi-hollow with a pair of lipstick pickups. This model dates to 2005 (the final year of production) and was a one-year-only release for the Japan market. The signature Surfcaster shape and pickguard are there, but the classy black finish and the HSS pickups offer some great tonal options. The neck and middle pickups offer a Strat-flavoured tone with some extra brightness, output and cut, while the bridge pickup offer a midrange hump and some additional natural compression while staying fairly well matched to the other pickups. The hardware is study: the two point trem is solid and smooth with great high mass saddles, the Charvel-branded tuners are reassuring and stable, the electronics are sturdy. As a vehicle for grunge, indie or surf, this is a quirky looking and brilliant sounding alternative to the classic Fender offsets; plus it's surely got to have significant appeal to collectors of the weird and wonderful in the guitar universe. 

Model: Charvel Surfcaster EM-SC
Made: Japan, 2005 (serial 05120040)
Finish: black, 3-ply white guard
Body: basswood
Neck: maple, satin finish w/ rosewood board, 12" radius, 25.5" scale
Weight: 3.535kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Charvel flat-pole single coils (N+M) and humbucker (B)
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some minor dimples on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has a few dimples in the elbow area and near the jack, as well as some scuffs around the neck plate and horns. The sides have some dimples near the jack and on the bottom horn and some scuffs in the elbow area. The front has some dimples near the jack and in the elbow area as well as some light play wear on the guard and horns. 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 minor wear, 9/10 fret for life left. Setup with fresh 10/46 strings.