Greco SE-1000 — Project Series Stratocaster Model

By now, the Greco Project Series hardly needs an introduction.
The SE-1000 sat just below the flagship SE-1200 in the lineup.
While the SE-1200 was fitted with DiMarzio Fat Strat pickups — the choice of top-end models — this guitar carries three of Greco’s original PU-119 single coils.

Visually, the SE-1000 stands out with its aluminum pickguard, spring box cover, and Schaller tuners.
As with all Project Series instruments, particular attention was devoted to the finish — the paintwork on this guitar reflects the same meticulous craftsmanship, starting from an exceptionally well-prepared undercoat.

According to the authoritative Oyazi Report, 1978–79 marked a transitional period for Greco model labeling — from engraved neck plates to printed decals on the back of the headstock.
This example, built in 1978, still bears the model name stamped on the neck plate.
The same report notes that SE models from that year typically used one-piece sen bodies, but this particular guitar is multi-piece, suggesting some production variation.

Although I haven’t opened it up yet, the guitar appears to have been extensively shielded, resulting in virtually no noise.
However, that degree of shielding also takes something away from the classic Stratocaster character — the sound becomes compact, refined, and almost miniature in scale.
If the original Stratocaster is a free-spirited young woman, then the fully shielded Strat is her mature, composed counterpart.

Which you prefer is entirely a matter of taste.
As for me — I’ll take the former.

Weight: 3.60 kg (including strings)
(Updated August 24, 2016)