Vantage Strat SSS style 1990s Blackburst

Not 'vintage' the adjective... VANTAGE brand, likely from the late 80s or 1990s and I expect from Japan by Matsomoku. The one just like it that was at auction a long while back was Japan built, so this one may be as well (neck color tint is the clue). No model or serial number to go by, so I pieced together my guesses based on what I see in it and what I know about the 'Vantage' branded guitars. Either way, you have a guitar that is very well made with darn good materials and pickups. Just like mine ! 

Update... $150 for a guitar in good shaper and set up, likely from Japan or at least S.Korea ... and you can't do $150 ?? You better get some help.

Weight : 9 lbs! 2 piece body and 1 piece neck. You do NOT see that nowadays! Last 2 pics show the trem block is real steel and FAT... not skinny pot metal as imports today have installed.

Korea or Japan build has raised the opening amount... that's sales ! These were likely from the Matsomoku factory in Japan.

VERY nicely made with a dark tinted maple neck that is 'hand-filling' and in excellent condition (not chipped or dinged). The body appears to be shot in a blackburst with an amber center (not that cheap yellowed look). VERY cool pickup sounds and the tiny jumper is in to make the forward tone pot control both neck and bridge pickups. 

Tuners are pretty good and smooth and positive... from an SX guitar. Yes, the holes from old fashioned tuners remain. The guitar is a rather sharp Strat type that is set up VERY well, is not damaged, has a great neck feel and very good fretboard and frets. Yes, it has those tiny little dings on the headstock edges that appear to be from being played on gigs. But it is NOT busted up or in 'bad shape' at all... It is close to a true relic and is a very well made factory guitar from back in the day. Think Tokai, Hohner, and Fernandes. 

This is a very well-priced Strat for a guy who knows his guitars and spots a real deal when he sees it. I have a good Korean Strat that was a custom one, so I am set ! But you may want a bit of yesteryear and get much more than a Squier Affinity or a plain old Mexico Fender Strat.

Questions ? Notice my feedback is 100% here and in eBay for a reason, just as on 1000+ eBay transactions over decades.