2009.... Interesting Year

[Sigmania]

I found two different Goldstars from 2009 where one has a serial number and one doesn't.

They also have mfg dates stamped in the neck pocket.

Not only does this indicate when the inked serial numbers began, but it is a very curious way of marking bodies that is very different than other Tokais and more like Fujigen markings... Curious.

 

[Sigmania]

SN 096057

http://www.tokaiforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=21521

 

[Sigmania]

No serial number.

Date stamped.

'09 9.17 (Sept 17, 2009)
'09 9.24 (Sept 24, 2009)

Seems very Fujigen like.

Description

Hey now! You're looking at a super cool guitar.
This is a 2009 Tokai Japan Goldstar Sound Sunburst Guitar.
It weighs 7 lbs 12 oz. 25.5" scale, 1.69" nut width.
Tokai is well known for their attention to detail and quality workmanship.
This Goldstar Sound Strat is nothing short of awesome.
Alder body, maple neck, rosewood board.
Bathed in a beautiful 3-tone sunburst finish.
The pickups grab up this excellent Strat tone and you'd swear you're playing a Fender.
Shimmering chords, excellent note articulation.
It's in next to mint condition as you can see in all the photos.
Just setup - the neck is straight, the frets are clean, and the action is set to just about 3/32" at the 12th fret.
It includes the Fender G&G case you see in the photos.
This is a great opportunity to get your hands on a great playing Strat for the price you want.
Thanks for looking!

https://www.ebay.com/itm/3743215458...0rhz/o1zvfaJsK7D64bufHKnY=|tkp:Bk9SR_KvpvSeYQ

 

[Sigmania]

These marking went on into 2010 at least.

Date stamped

" '10.2.28" (Feb 28, 2010)
" '10.3.4" (March 15, 2010)
" '10.3.15" (March 15, 2010)

SN 100170

https://reverb.com/item/32106689-tokai-ast-65-goldstar-sound-2010-japan-black

 

[Sigmania]

So possibly sourcing some mfg of Goldstars from Fujigen (?) as well as from China (C09 serial numbers) in 2009?

http://www.tokaiforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=26820

http://www.tokaiforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=26738