At first glance, this may look like a regular Stratocaster — but upon closer inspection, you will notice it has very unusual specifications.

This is the rare “THE 2-KNOB STRATOCASTER”, often referred to as “The Smith Strat.”

You might think, “Smith Strats aren’t that rare.” That’s true if we are talking about USA-made models, which do appear on the market from time to time. However, this one is something entirely different — it is Made in Japan.

This is the Fender Japan model ST83-80. The “83” designation is said to reference the year 1983, when the Smith Strat was introduced. It is believed that Dan Smith visited Fujigen in Japan and commissioned this model to be produced.

Despite this fascinating background, this Japanese-made Smith Strat almost never appears on the Japanese market. It was not listed in official catalogs, and many collectors consider it a “phantom” model.

There is a detailed website explaining the Smith Strat history, and it contains a particularly interesting story. The prototype of the 2-Knob Stratocaster was reportedly built by Scott Zimmerman, who later went on to work at Fujigen. He is known as the luthier who built Kurt Cobain’s famous Skystang and Oranj-Stang, and he also crafted the neck for the Jag-Stang prototype that was given to Kurt.

During the development of the 2-Knob Strat sample, Scott was apparently close to being fired due to the controversial bridge design. If that had happened, perhaps Kurt’s Mustang models might never have existed — an interesting “what if” in guitar history.

Now, back to this guitar.

The serial number is an E-serial, and based on the neck date it was manufactured in December 1983. One might expect a JV serial for a 1983 model, but it is said that this early “E” stood for “Eighties.” Later, Fender Japan transitioned into the standard E-serial system, which makes things somewhat confusing.

The body appears to be alder, as with the USA model. The neck and fingerboard are maple. The pickups are USA-made and stamped 016730. These are the same pickups as the JV-serial left-handed Strat I currently have listed separately.

The original “80” sticker on the back of the headstock is still present.

In my personal opinion, fewer than 50 of these were likely produced. Among Fender Japan models, this is unquestionably one of the top three rarest. Anyone who wants this guitar is likely a serious MIJ collector. Please consider adding this extraordinary piece to your collection.

Weight: approximately 3.3 kg (7.3 lbs).

Considering it is 43 years old, it is in very good condition. There are no major wood-exposing damages. The frets remain in solid shape.

However, as shown in the photos, for some reason only the first fret area of the fingerboard and the headstock show noticeable discoloration. The clear coat from the second fret onward is intact. This is easier to see from the side.

There is also a typical crack around the bridge stud area, which is common on this type of model. The bridge does not move even when using the tremolo arm, so there is no structural issue at present. However, when using the tremolo arm, the guitar goes out of tune. This is part of the original design issue — the same issue that reportedly almost cost Scott Zimmerman his job.

Included:
• Fender gig bag
• Non-original tremolo arm

Please note: the zipper on the gig bag pocket is broken and does not close.

Please note that this is a used item.

There are no issues with its current functionality, but please understand that you may need to make further adjustments after purchase to suit your preferences.

Be sure to review the photos and description carefully before placing a bid.

If there’s anything you’d like to confirm, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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We do not undervalue items or mark them as “gifts,” as this is prohibited by regulations in Japan, the United States, and other countries.

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In rare cases, especially for high-value items, U.S. Customs or the carrier may request the buyer’s Tax Identification Number (such as an SSN or CBP Form 5106) for clearance. This is a standard procedure, and failure to provide it may result in delays or the return of the package.

Thank you for your understanding!

Management Number: B-2634