Fernandes JG-65, surf green, made in Taiwan circa 1998. Fernandes are one of Japan's best loved and most successful domestic brands; they really do well over there. The JG series was made from 1995-03 approx, offering combining modern sensibilities, intuitive hardware and cool electronics to the classic offset shape. This one is a late 90s example, and one of the less common SSS-style models. It feels great: the body is very light, the neck is slim and quick and carved from some gorgeous high grade maple and the stock Wilkinson bridge is very stable and responsive. The pickups are a slightly overwound take on a a vintage Strat sound, so it's fat and full with lovely snappy detail and clarity. I was very impressed with the tone, it certainly punches above it's price bracket very convincingly. The pearl guard has yellowed significantly and the surf green finish, complete with matching headstock, is just delightfully gaudy. These are a bit of a Topshelf favourite, guess why? If you guessed 'because they're dope!', ten points to Gryffindor.

Model: Fernandes JG-65
Made: Taiwan, 1998 approx (no serial number)
Finish: surf green, 3-ply white pearl guard
Body: alder
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 25.5" scale, 13.75" radius, slim C shape
Weight: 3.305kg
Mods: none
Pickup: Fernandes MS-201 single coil x3
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some scuffs on the bottom edge and the end, a small chip on the top corner of the front and a dimple on the edge near the 'F' in the logo. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and some rub wear on the back only. The back has some dimples on the top horn, some scuffs around the neck joint, a small chip on the bottom edge in the waist area, scuffs and dimples near the jack and some dimples in the elbow area. The sides have a small dent on the top horn, a pair of chips in the elbow area, a few dents and dimples near the jack and some light scuffs on the bottom horn. The front has some scuffs in the elbow area and along the back edge, some dimples near the jack and some play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (7.5/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. The frets look great, 9/10 for fret life left. All electrics tested and working properly. Setup with fresh 11/49 Moonshiners strings.