Fender Japan J-Craft Standard Strat, rebel yellow, crafted in Japan 1997-00. What a finish, right? Rebel Yellow was a non-catalog rarity in the 90s, so this one was part of a limited run and certainly not one you see everyday. The dark streaky rosewood board and lightly aged plastics make the yellow pop hard; as if it needed any help. Aside from the look, this delivers. The neck is a superb piece of maple and the original satin finish has been well played, so it's now a mildly glossy, super slidable delight. The modern 9.8" radius makes for easy bends and the slim C shape is very agreeable; it's super easy to play. The standard pickups crank out a chimey, snappy treble and thick, immediate bass; it's got a lot of charm in an understated kinda way. These J-Standard Strats punch well beyond their dollars and when they look this good... well, it's an easy decision, right?

Model: Fender Japan J-Craft Standard Stratocaster (ST-43)
Made: Japan, Dyna plant, 1997-00 (serial O098298)
Finish: rebel yellow (RYL)
Body: basswood
Weight: 3.450kg
Neck: maple with maple board, satin finish, 9.8" radius, 25.5" scale
Mods: none
Pickup: Fender Japan ST-Current single coil x3
Case: basic non original gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has some minor marks on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, just some minor dimples and glossing from play on the back. The back has three little chips along the bottom edge, some scuffs along the back edge and a few dimples around the body; nothing too nasty. The sides have a couple of dimples on the horns and a few little chips and scuffs in the elbow area and around from the jack. The front is pretty tidy, just some little nicks in the elbow area and near the jack and some play wear on the guard and top horn. 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. Frets are freshly polished and dressed, there's plenty of height in them; 8/10 for fret life left. Set up with fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.