Back in 1977, the really well-heeled could open the Project Series catalogue and order an SE-800, SE-1000 and SE-1200, but the SE-800 was the discerning choice. A real 50's style replica - very slim C neck, light as a feather, small headstock and bright airy tones from the 3-way.
 
SE-800s were 2 piece bodies, the one piece bodies being reserved for 1200 models; but you have to look very hard to see the join - these were master-built. Just a couple of minor parking knocks and belt buckle marks to give its age away, this has obviously been cherished. It even has its original case, the little yellow tie straps intact. It has the SE-800 engraved into the neck plate.
 
So, it looks fabulous, it feels fabulous - all the parts and components are original. The pick-ups are good old PU-100 units, so bright and airy and very keen to clip that AC30 or equivalent. The grade of steel used for the bridge and more importantly the block, is higher than that seen on lower models - the ringing sustain from this guitar needs to be experienced to be believed. This guitar has had a couple of wires reconfigured (still using the original wire) to enable the Bill Lawrence configuration that deploys the lower tone control as a middle pick-up blender. Therefore you sacrifice the middle on its own in exchange for the Hendrix tone palette. All the components are still original.
 
These SE-800 models were tributes to the early 50's style - a shallow V neck, a 7.25" radius, 8 hole plate - this is one of the collection, or that special one you daren't take on the road. Or take it, that's what they were for after all. But finding a 1977 Project Series guitar in this condition that feels this delicious, for this kind of price is nothing short of miraculous.