Greco SE-800N

These higher-end premium Grecos are no longer a well-kept secret. The SE-800 was the top of the tree for Grecos in 1978 - the really well-heeled could open the Project Series catalogue and order the 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, the beautifully engineered DM-30 switch allowing those in-between sounds to be found without the aid of a matchstick. Just a couple of parking knocks to give its age away, this has obviously been cherished. This is a super-light guitar - just 3.15kg (just under 7lbs); the lightest 800 we have ever had.

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. Whilst it is tempting to install the PU-119 higher output pick-ups, or something boutique, don't. The original PU-100s suit this guitar perfectly.

Played side by side with a 1978 SE-500, we have to conclude that a higher grade bridge, the density of this higher grade ash makes a huge difference to these PU-100 units. This is a totally different class of guitar. It has balance, the handshake, the dynamics that even our resident US Professional and Vintage II Fenders can't match. Early 50's style neck, a 7.25" radius, Schaller tuners, 8 hole creamier than cream 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 1978 guitar in this condition that feels this delicious, for this kind of price is nothing short of miraculous. I bet a Fender will be a grand more than this one, and that will have a 3 bolt neck, and have a massive headstock.

This is due in with us Mid-March - these SE-800 models are usually snapped up quickly, so get in touch quickly if you think this should be yours