If subtle is what you’re after, this probably isn’t your guitar. A crackle finish never really goes out of style, and this one is no exception. Nearly 40 years later, this Fire Crackle Model 4 still turns heads.

Up for sale is an exceptional 1988 Charvel Model 4, Made in Japan, finished in the unmistakable factory Fire Crackle finish.

The Model 4 is already one of the standout guitars from Charvel’s late-’80s Japanese Model Series. Add the dramatic Fire Crackle finish, sharkfin inlays, black Jackson hardware and active HSS electronics, and this one stands out immediately.

CONDITION

This guitar presents extremely well for its age.

The Fire Crackle finish remains vibrant and glossy across the front, back and sides, and the photographs show just how dramatic the finish is from different angles.

The neck, fingerboard and headstock also present very cleanly, and both neck-pocket areas have been photographed closely.

There is normal age-related wear visible on portions of the JT-6 tremolo and hardware, consistent with a guitar from this period.

I’ve photographed the guitar carefully so the condition can speak for itself.

Additional photos are available upon request.

ORIGINALITY / NOTABLE DETAILS

This guitar retains all of its original factory components, including the original Jackson pickups, electronics, hardware, tuners and JT-6 locking tremolo system.

All three pickups, individual selector switches and the original JE-1200 active mid-boost function exactly as intended.

The original tremolo arm and original control knobs are included, along with a hard-shell case.

The factory Fire Crackle finish is what separates this example immediately from the much more commonly encountered solid-color Model 4s.

FEATURES / SPECS

  • 1988 Charvel Model 4
  • Made in Japan
  • Factory Fire Crackle finish
  • Bolt-on maple neck
  • Rosewood fingerboard
  • Sharkfin inlays
  • 22 frets
  • Jackson HSS pickup configuration
  • JE-1200 active mid-boost electronics
  • Three individual pickup mini-toggle switches
  • Jackson JT-6 locking tremolo
  • Jackson tuners
  • Black hardware

WHY THIS ONE STANDS OUT

Finding a Model 4 isn’t impossible.

Finding one in Fire Crackle is another matter.

This finish gives the guitar a completely different presence from the standard solid-color examples, and the crackle pattern makes each one visually unique.

Combine that with the classic late-’80s Charvel/Jackson hardware and electronics package, and you have a Model 4 that stands apart before it is even plugged in.

If you have been looking for a vintage Japanese Charvel and want something more distinctive than another solid-color example, take a close look at this one.

PLEASE NOTE

This guitar is also listed for sale on other media platforms and may be sold or withdrawn from Reverb without notice at any time prior to a completed sale.

Please ask any and all questions or raise any concerns before purchasing. I’m happy to provide additional photographs or information.

SHIPPING

Actual shipping and insurance charges will vary depending on the buyer’s location.

The shipping amount shown on the listing should be considered an estimate/placeholder until an accurate fully insured quote can be obtained.

Please message me with your location for an accurate, fully insured shipping quote before purchasing.

SHIPPING / HANDLING TIME

Dispatch times may vary.

Please contact me before purchasing to confirm the current handling and shipping timeframe, especially if you require the guitar by a specific date.

Each instrument is carefully inspected and packed for shipment, and I will not rush the packing process simply to meet a courier deadline.

EUROPEAN / INTERNATIONAL BUYERS

European and international buyers are welcome, but please understand that fully insured international shipping can be very expensive.

Do not commit to the purchase unless you are prepared to cover the actual shipping, insurance, duties, taxes and import costs.

Any applicable duties, taxes, tariffs, customs charges, brokerage fees or other import-related costs are the responsibility of the buyer.

I will not declare a reduced value or otherwise misrepresent the value of the guitar to reduce shipping, insurance, customs or import costs.

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Listeda month ago
ConditionExcellent (Used)
Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • Model 4
Finish
  • Fire Crackle
Categories
Year
  • 1988
Right / Left Handed
  • Right Handed
Number of Strings
  • 6-String
Body Type
  • Solid Body

Product safety information may be available here.

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