1984 Fernandes RST-50 Revival Vintage ’64 Burgundy Mist MIJ Vintage Strat Japan

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ITEM DESCRIPTION

This is a Fernandes RST-50 "64" Revival (S-Type) finished in the rare Burgundy Mist Metallic (BUD), a finish that was uncommon for the period. Serial 42612 dates it to Dec 26, 1984 (neck-heel stamp). Like the earlier examples, it was built during Japan's golden MIJ era by Kawai Musical Instruments, and the core "Revival" specs are essentially the same, this one is simply a slightly later production.

Burgundy Mist is especially beloved in Japan thanks to Char. According to Japan Vintage Vol.6 (p.35), among Revival custom colors the trio BUD / LPB / CAR was treated as "premium" for a time, and the 1982 catalog lists a ¥10,000 up-charge for custom colors, underscoring how scarce these were; Burgundy Mist is noted as particularly scarce even within the RST rare/custom palette.

Under the pickguard you can clearly see "tan lines," showing the guitar was originally a brighter, more vivid pink hue. The exposed areas have naturally mellowed with age, but compared to many Burgundy Mist examples I've seen, this one shows relatively modest fading/yellowing and still retains a beautiful burgundy character. Weight is 3.54 kg (about 7.80 lb), not ultra-light, but it's well balanced and feels lighter than the scale suggests.

This example is all original and includes the original 1980s Fernandes gig bag and the tremolo arm.

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Condition

Honest vintage wear throughout from 40 years of use and storage: small dings, light scuffs, and edge wear, plus typical aging/oxidation on hardware. Pickguard/plastics show normal aging and patina. No extra routes or major structural issues noted. Electronics and controls are original and operate as they should.

The neck feels healthy and plays well as-is, with a great, lively sound. Please review all photos for the exact cosmetic condition and aging.

Key Specs

• Year / Date: 1984 (Serial 42612 → Dec 26, 1984 stamp)
• Builder: Kawai (MIJ vintage)
• Model: RST-50 "64" Revival, S-Type
• Finish: Burgundy Mist Metallic (BUD)
• Weight: 3.54 kg (≈ 7.80 lb)
• Body: Alder (typical RST-50 '64 spec; see photos/stamps)
• Neck: Maple with rosewood fingerboard, '64-style comfortable C
• Scale: 25.5" (648 mm) / Frets: 21 vintage
• Pickups: Factory original Fernandes single coils (three)
• Electronics: Original harness; normal operation
• Bridge: Original 6-screw trem with REVIVAL-stamped saddles (see photos)
• Tuners: Kluson-style "DELUXE"
• Set Includes: Original 1980s Fernandes gig bag, tremolo arm

Tone

Classic '60s S-Type character: open and articulate with a sweet, singing midrange, airy highs, and woody low end. The alder body and mature MIJ build give it the fast response and harmonic depth that make early Revival models so prized.

Shipping & Customs

This item is not drop-shipped. I personally own, photograph, inspect, and ship every instrument. Worldwide insured shipping via EMS with tracking.

eBay member since 2004, with over 30 years around vintage guitars and parts.

To the USA: Under current US regulations, shipments from Japan must be sent with import duties prepaid by the seller (DDP). In short, the tariff is already covered, so there will be no surprise duty bill on delivery. Please note that state sales tax collected by eBay, or a small customs clearance or handling fee charged by the carrier, may still apply in some cases. These minor charges are outside of my control.

To all other countries: Import VAT or duties may be charged by your country, and the buyer is responsible for any local import rules and fees.

Tip: If you have a broker or special instructions, message me before purchase and I'm happy to coordinate.

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Notes / References: Japan Vintage Vol.6 (Shinko Music) p.35 notes that among Revival custom colors, BUD/LPB/CAR were treated as premium in certain periods; the 1982 Fernandes catalog lists a ¥10,000 up-charge for custom colors. Burgundy Mist's popularity in Japan is closely associated with Char. Not affiliated with Fender Musical Instruments Corp.; "S-Type / Strat-style" used solely to describe the body shape and control layout for SEO clarity: Fernandes RST-50 '64, Burgundy Mist BUD, 1984 MIJ, Kawai, Revival Series, vintage Japanese guitar.