micajah

If there is one thing I have a serious weakness to it's buying music equipment.

I'm in talks with a guy who collects high end Japanese guitars. He has a japanese hand made '52 telecaster replica of pristine quality and condition that I may purchase for thousands of dollars less than it's actual worth.

Sounds sketchy, you say?

There are two reasons why he is letting it go for so cheap.
1. The price in the wood that they use to make this guitar has gone up significantly in the past year or so. He bought it for $2,500 in '03. It is now worth $4,250.
2. He is buying a house and really needs the money.

And just so you know, Japanese guitars are made with a certain precision, artestry, and attention to detail that puts most american guitars to shame. Especially a company like fender. Who sell their high end guitars for about $2000 more than japanese high end guitars. And the Quality, craftsmanship, and tone still are not up to par with their japanese counter parts.

Of course, there is still a risk to be taken. But life is full of risks. And besides. It's only money.

Edit Update: I got it! I didn't even notice, but there was a 'Not for Sale' tag under this guitar on his site. But he said all the buyers he's had before were collectors. He wanted this guitar to be in the hands of an active/gigging musician.