Squier SST33 Silver Series Strat, made in Japan in 1993-4 in sunburst. The Silver Series heralded a return to Japanese manufacturing for Squier, and were very well received at the time owing to the excellent build quality from the legendary Fujigen factory. This one is a particularly vibrant take on the three tone burst: the aged creamy guard and dark choc rosewood board make the finish pop beautifully. Tone-wise, this stomps: punchy, fat attack, warm natural bass, heaps of chime and sizzle on the top. The magic here is in the neck: the well played satin finish feels excellent, and the slim 1962 style profile is just too easy and there's some lovely pieces of maple and rosewood on deck. These Silver Series guitars go pound for pound with much pricier guitars, plus they're surely a modder's delight... easy decision, right?

Model: Squier Silver Series Stratocaster, SST33-M
Made: Japan, Fujigen plant, 1993-94 (serial O000356)
Finish: 3-tone sunburst, 1-ply white guard
Body: 'wood fibre', appears like basswood
Weight: 3.685kg
Neck: maple with maple board, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius
Mods: back cover removed
Pickups: Fender Japan ST Single x3
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has some minor marks on the end, back and bottom edge, no major marks. The neck is smooth in the hands but has a number of dimples and scuffs on the back. The back has light scuffs and dimples, mostly on the back and bottom edge, as well as a chip on the bottom horn; no major marks. Back cover is missing. The sides have a few marks: a chip on the top horn, minor dents and scuffs on the shoulder, scuffs and marks around from the jack, a minor chip on the bottom horn. The front is pretty tidy, just a couple of dimples behind the bridge and on the elbow carve and 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 have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.