Fender Japan Stratocaster ST57-55 manufactured in 1985, from the A-series, with the serial number stamped on the neck plate – just like on the earlier JV-series instruments. This guitar comes from the early era of Fender Japan production, a period highly regarded among Fender enthusiasts for exceptionally well-made instruments that successfully competed with their US-made counterparts in terms of quality.

The ST57 is based on late-1950s Stratocasters and features period-correct details such as a one-ply 8-screw pickguard. The maple neck feels great in the hand, while the 7.25" fingerboard radius provides a classic vintage feel. The body is made of basswood, keeping the guitar lightweight and well balanced.

The electronics are original. The potentiometers date to June 1985, and the guitar is equipped with three ST-Vintage Japan single-coil pickups. It has been well played over the years, resonates beautifully and delivers a genuinely great classic Stratocaster tone, with plenty of that unmistakable Strat “glassy” character.

The guitar has undergone a comprehensive inspection and restoration. The frets had already been replaced by the previous owner and still have plenty of life left; we additionally leveled and polished them. The finish, plastics and metal hardware were polished, while the entire electronics were checked, cleaned and serviced. The output jack has been replaced with a new one.

We also installed a new set of high-quality Kluson Vintage Deluxe tuners designed for Stratocaster-style guitars. The guitar is also fitted with a genuine bone nut.

The guitar shows some scratches and small dents, but nothing excessive considering its age – 41 years. Despite polishing, the white pickguard still reveals some signs of rather “emotional” 😉 playing when viewed under the right light.

A fresh set of Fender 10–46 strings has been installed, and the guitar has received a full setup, so it is ready to play straight out of the box.

And since we can never quite decide whether we prefer Clapton’s Strat or Gilmour’s, we’ll leave the new owner with the same “problem” – and include an additional black pickguard. 🙂

A hard case shown in the photos is also available for purchase upon request at an attractive price.

Every instrument purchased from SOUNDSIDERS comes with a product card alongside the proof of purchase. The card includes the instrument’s specifications as well as a detailed list of the restoration and service work we carried out.

Our instruments are carefully packed in sturdy cardboard boxes with plenty of protective padding, so you can be confident that your instrument will arrive safely.