The Smiths This Charming Man 1983 45rpm RTT136 UK 1st Press “Timtom” Etching
$
89
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Description
The Smiths – This Charming Man
Label: Rough Trade – RTT 136
Format: 12” 45 RPM Vinyl
Country: UK
Year of Release: 1983
Matrix / Runout (etched):
• Side A: RTT 136 A
• Side B: RTT 136 B / timtom TAPE ONE (indicating mastering engineer Tim Young at Tape One Studios)
Track Listing:
A Side:
1. This Charming Man (Manchester)
2. This Charming Man (London)
B Side:
1. Accept Yourself
2. Wonderful Woman
Sleeve & Artwork Notes:
• The iconic sleeve features French actor Jean Marais in a mirrored photograph, taken from Jean Cocteau’s film Orpheus. This fits Morrissey’s fascination with mid-century European cinema and gender ambiguity.
• Cover Star: Jean Marais
• Rough Trade original UK issue, distributed by The Cartel.
Pressing Details:
• This is the original 1983 first UK pressing on Rough Trade Records.
• The “timtom TAPE ONE” inscription confirms it was mastered by Tim Young, a mastering engineer associated with original first pressings of Rough Trade releases.
• Labels are in cream with brown print, consistent with early pressings (some later reissues had different label coloring or typography).
• Matrix codes and fonts match those documented for authentic originals.
Condition Assessment (based on photos):
• Vinyl: Appears clean with no visible scratches or warping. Likely VG+ to NM (Very Good Plus to Near Mint).
• Labels: Clean with no spindle wear or writing – excellent condition.
• Sleeve: Front and back look sharp, with minimal edge wear – VG+.
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