Bonfires is definitely not to be trusted, but that doesn't mean the guitar is fake. Give it a good look when and if you get it and post detailed pics of the backs of the pickups if you pull them and we'll tell you what's what. I have a 1976 Starfire VI that's just a gorgeous guitar.
Hey Guys, Today is the day!!! Ive always wanted one of these and here it is. I have a few questions and concerns, and I may send it back based on not as described. If I sell a guitar, I damn sure photograph everything I think is a flaw. This guy did not. He called it excellent condition, where I would say good condition. Called it original vintage when the tuners are obviously new. Said been in case since new which is a joke. It has a lot of miles. Also called it a 1975 when its really a 74.
Before I took it apart I played it and it does sound good and plays well. Neck is straight and action is excellent. I believe the pickups are original, please confirm.
So anyway, here are my questions and concerns...
What were the frets made out of in 1974??? The fingerboard has a lot of grime on it, but there is no fret wear. Do these look like new frets?
Why would someone change the frets and not clean the fretboard???
The jack is chrome, should it not be gold?
There is a heavy scratch on the neck that almost looks like a crack, but I'm pretty sure its a scratch. I do not like the way the scratch starts exactly where its set in the body. Looks like it was scratched before it was set in the body. Its hard to believe a scratch would start exactly at the joint and not be in the body at all. Its the other end of the scratch that makes me believe its a scratch. I am taking it to my luthier tomorrow to be sure. Not described!!!
There is a small binding crack, but Im not surprised on an almost 50 YO guitar. not described
The smallest abalone inlay is missing. not described
There is a weird black mark on the back near the edge. Almost looks like magic marker. not described
There are tons of normal wear and tear scratches everywhere and some buckle rash. Not described
The way this guy takes pictures, you cant see anything I'm describing.
Here are some cell phone pics. I am now going to clean it really good, restring, and play it a while. Luthier inspection tomorrow. I will take some pics with a real camera and post them over the weekend while I'm deciding. If I send it back it will be a lot cleaner than when he shipped it.
Please let me know your thoughts.