1977 Greco SE-700W Early Sixties

The Greco SE-700 was the premium big-headstock model of the range in the 1970s. In 1977, there were 2 SE-700 models in the range, a small headstock maple neck version with PU-100 pick-ups and a 3-way switch - these were built in tiny numbers. This is not one of these, it is the more familiar and highly regarded Early Sixties model, with the PU-119 (Excels) and the 5-way switch. These are every bit as good as their well deserved reputation suggests.

Each of the 5 positions (including the middle on its own) has a distinctive character and there is no weak position amongst them and all respond well to subtle control changes on the guitar and the amplifier. The controls and switch are all original, in fact everything on this guitar other than the strings remains original - the bridge and tuners are all in great aged condition - most importantly perfectly functioning.

At precisely 4.40kg (9lbs 11oz) this has, despite the Early Sixties moniker, a very 1970s weight and feel to it - the aged white finish fading to cream gives it that authentic vintage touch too. It isn't completely flawless, there are signs of life, but nothing to detract. 1977 Grecos regularly seem to have a lot more weight to them that earlier and later years - we'd class this as a 'heavy strat' - there are other lighter models here if this is a deal-breaker.

The serial Number on this one is I774760, a late November 1977 Fujigen build from the time they were really showing off to impress the boys from Corona prior to the partnership. A Fender guitar from this CBS era is hit and miss - there were some real howlers, and even the good ones are likely to have been upgraded by now. During this era, Fujigen and their contemporaries were just the opposite - getting better and better. We adore all SE-700 models, and have a special soft spot for this one as it bucks the trend and has its extra kilogram and wears it very gracefully indeed.

There is scope for further work to this guitar - even though the frets have plenty of life left in them, a set of Tall Narrow on this neck; together with a Gotoh 510T tremolo upgrade turns this already fantastic guitar into Custom Shop eater - but without the catastrophic price tag. We don't see the need to upgrade the amazing PU-119 pick-ups, the only worthwhile upgrade would be a set of Haussel Desperados but definitiely give these Excels a chance beforehand. Their reputation is well deserved.