(SOLD) Fender Japan Stratocaster STR65SP Red Sparkle 1994
Fender Strat, outrageous red sparkle finish, made in Japan 1993. Here it is friends... proof once again that Japan gets all the cool guitars and everyone else gets the rest. This little stunner was made in a super limited run for the domestic Japan market only; not many were produced and the model and finish doesn't seem to have ever repeated. You get some cool quirks: the silver spaghetti logo, satin finish neck, Gotoh tuners, block saddles... all nice little touches. The neck feels awesome in the hands; it's a slim 60s style shape and has an instantly familiar feel; like a favourite pair of jeans. The tone is impactful: I expected a good, standard Strat spank, but I got all that and more. There's a heap of natural bass and roundness, a thick punchy attack and a beautiful, glassy clear treble... tone that'll easily scare some very expensive USA models. And that finish... what to say? In the flesh, it's beautiful. The depth and texture of the sparkle is reminiscent of 60s 'glass glitter' drum wraps; it's definitely got a retro gaudiness and a whole lot of exuberant swagger. You'll need a red velvet tracksuit to match of course.
Model: Fender Stratocaster (STR65SP)
Made: Japan, 1993-4, Fujjigen plant (serial N032418)
Finish: red glitter/sparkle, 3-ply white pearl guard
Body: basswood
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius
Weight: 3.490kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender Japan ST-Single
Case: basic non-original gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock and neck pretty clean. Back has no major marks, just a small chip near the neck pocket and a dimple on the top horn. Sides are pretty clean, just a little dimple near the input jack. The front has no major marks, just some very light play wear on the guard and top horn. Overall: excellent condition (9/10).
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 but are in good shape, 8/10 for fret life left. Setup with fresh 10/46 strings.