WTB - Greco 335-type

AlbertC

I'm potentially after a Japanese made 335-type - ideally an 80s era Greco or maybe Tokai
If you're thinking of selling or know of something...
Cheers

Neilybob

I know they are great value for money if you know what you are looking for. 

I've purchased from Japan to the UK a used red 70's Greco SA550 which has some magic mojo it in and sounds great through a clean amp. Though it looks like a 335 it doesn't have the centre block so it is a feedback monster when used with a angry amp.  See photos on page 12 here 
https://www.thefretboard.co.uk/discussion/2835/old-japanese-guitars-appreciation-thread/p12

I've also purchased from Japan an amazing Navigator ES335 copy with centre block and it sounds amazing. Photos here 
https://www.thefretboard.co.uk/discussion/237554/ngd-just-in-from-japan-navigator-content

I've been lucky but I've also heard some horror stories about ordering from Japan. Best advise I can give you is buy something from the UK lol. You have to review and photos of the guitars in Japan really carefully. 

If money is no object then I'd go hunting for a Navigator ( ESP)  ES335 copy but these are quite rare. Another option is the Super Real Greco's from the early half of the 80's. Some of the Tokai I've seen post on this forum look amazing but I don't have any experience. The internet has realised how amazing these MIJ copies are from the 70's, 80's and 90's so the prices have rocketed. Worth also checking out Burny's and Vester also. 

Good luck with your search. 

Neilybob

Out if interest, what is your budget? 

AlbertC

Thanks for the advice.  The later SA550s have a centre block don’t they? Aren’t the Edwards brand also ESP? 

AlbertC

Neilybob said:

Out if interest, what is your budget? 

I guess up to £1,500 

Neilybob

AlbertC said:

Thanks for the advice.  The later SA550s have a centre block don’t they? Aren’t the Edwards brand also ESP? 

Yes I believe the later ones did have a centre block. 

Edwards are also ESP but I believe there is a different in pricing between the Navigators and Edwards. Others might be able to give first hand experience here. 

Dominic

I have had a bit of experience with Tokai,Navigator and Yamaha SA from the 80s 
They have all been superb and better in every way than every Gibson 335 I have played except one which belongs to a member here and is a monster of a guitar.
The Yamaha SA 2000 is a stunning guitar but it doesn't sound like a 335....it's brighter.......superb but different
The best I have played otherwise have been Tokai ES series