1974 Matsumoku Greco SE-500
 
This is another superb example of a pre-serial number Matsumoku built Strat clone - it features the slightly more substantial neck profile than the later Fujigen and Aria products. 
 
This one arrived in decent condition but had worn its frets to the absolute limit. We decided to refret it with Jescar 55090 (similar to a vintage Gibson feel), and so favoured by guitarists in the 1970s who had worn their skinny vintage Fender frets down. These are proving very popular here with customers requiring new frets on their Fender products. Most of our DreamBuild creations have these unless a customer desires an alternative. 
 
Even though I am a sucker for an old early Maxon, I also recognize they are an acquired taste compared to modern more dynamic pick-ups. Maxons are a different shape and size to standard modern singles so we sensitively modify the bodies to accept a modern pick-up, and have had a set of custom Clausen Alnico 3 fitted with a new 5-way switch and potentiometers to control them. The neck unit offers everything from Gilmour to heavy blues, the bridge is wound a little hotter and thicker, but is governed by the lower tone control which can be backed off slightly to find a more traditional bridge single. Backing the volume back to 8.5 also calms the bridge down if a super clean sound is desired. It's all there, but most importantly we think, there is enough aggression and power in that bridge pick-up to get a nod of respect from the guy with the Les Paul. The in between settings are very wide and scooped - Knopfler to funk catered for. In the middle you can be Bonnie Raitt.
 
No trickery or complexity with this wiring - it is a traditional Strat for those who just need that.
 
The bridge and tuners are original Gotoh units - a (very) narrow string spacing (10mm saddles) and 2 1/16 E to E. We often upgrade the bridges to new Gotoh NS units which need a little surgery to fit, but this bridge is perfectly serviceable and retains its full adjustability. The tuners are also in fine health although we have upgraded the string trees. 
 
Compared to many 50 year old working guitars, this one has led a fairly kind life - just a few parking knocks and scrapes. The finish has aged gracefully - just a few cracks in the lacquer and a nice bit of nicotine sheen in the darker areas of the sunburst. It looks and feels like a genuine vintage guitar (because it is one!), but plays and sounds like a modern upgraded reissue. The mystery continues as to the significance of the stamped star at the top of the neck. I have seen a few other Grecos and the occasional Ibanez with this feature - all from the same year and all from Matsumoku. Some suggest it is a sign of a special order, but I suspect it is a dealer specific identifier. If anyone knows for sure, tell us.
 
It tips the scales at 3.68kg (8lbs 2oz).