Bill Lawrence BC2-0131E / BC2-130WL (1984–1986)

In the November 1984 catalog, this model appears as BC2-0131E, while in the November 1986 catalog, it is listed as BC2-130WL. At the time, it carried a list price of ¥130,000, making it the top-of-the-line model in the series.

The most noticeable difference between the two versions, as far as I can tell, lies in the headstock logo: the earlier model bears the “CHALLENGER” logo, whereas the later version features “CHALLENGER II.” In the 1986 catalog, the logo is hard to make out due to the low image resolution, but since all the other BC2-series models shown alongside it clearly display the CHALLENGER II logo, it’s reasonable to assume the BC2-130WL carries it as well.

This guitar features a solid one-piece walnut body and a walnut neck, with grain that is straight and calm in character. The brass pickguard shows minor tarnishing in spots, but given its age, the overall condition is excellent. The pickups are Black Label S1, S2, and S3, although on this particular example the middle pickup appears to have been replaced with a Schecter Monster Tone.

A walnut Stratocaster should not be thought of as a conventional Strat—it has an entirely different sonic personality. Its tone is warm, mellow, and deeply resonant, reminiscent of a wooden temple bell (mokugyo), with no sharp edges or bite. A brass nut is used to improve clarity and sustain, but even so, the sound retains a dreamy, subdued quality. It’s the kind of instrument that makes you stop and wonder: what kind of music truly suits this guitar?

Weight: 4.09 kg (including strings)
(Updated June 17, 2016)