Fender Japan: A Short History

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When I was still deep in my "jazz coma" in the '90's I became aware of a number of jazzers that played Telecasters. I went by my local shop and was smitten with an '94 MIJ double bound beauty. After a couple more visits I brought it home, installed a neck pickup and had many wonderful years together.
So I've always had a soft spot for these Made in Japan guitars and have long wondered at their specific history. I then became aware that the early ones, from the '80's, were becoming somewhat collectable now...so this video was inevitable at that point.
Hope you enjoy learning about them as much as I did.
Keith

[@chillpillology]

ok, this might be one of the better vids. fender japan are some of the most legit guitars in the world to me. bring it on

[@clevebaker8399]

I bought an 81 jap strat new in 85 at a large music store in Missouri and brought it home as my main guitar! My friends laughed and sneered..my black Japanese strat is still my fave guitar.. great job as always 😊

[@l.a.rodriguez9581]

Would love to get an 80s Fender Japan Strat or a Burny Les Paul. Beautiful instruments that will go toe to toe with their American counterparts.

[@ConcernedCitizen-fd4fd]

@@l.a.rodriguez9581 No they wont what are you thinkin

[@joshuadupuis346]

I have an 84’ Fender Flame from their Artist Series, an amazing guitar with impeccable craftsmanship.

[@Acemechanicalservices]

I recently picked up an ‘83 Japanese Squire Bullet. It’s hands down the best playing guitar I’ve ever held. The neck is unbelievable, and the flame on the neck is beautiful.

[@These_go_to_eleven_1959]

I am so grateful JAPAN was and still is involved in Guitar making! Some of the very best guitars i have owned and played were MIJ! 🤘 There are so many examples of their excellent craftsmanship it is impossible to list them all here!

[@kirkscobey3031]

Wish I still had some of my old Squier MIJs 😫😫

[@cuda426hemi]

@@kirkscobey3031 Was thinking same thing...if I remember correctly I bought a used Squire Strat from GC here in Hollywood back in like '90 for $50 !!! No respect. Black w white guard, maple maple played like a dream, sold like an unwanted beater months later. Only couple years later I knew I screwed the pooch. Today I'm not letting my 4-5 year old mint 50's Classic Vibe Squier made in CHINA out of my room...the l'il thing is faultless. 🎸

[@paulhcan]

FGN Brand guitars are FujiGen today - anywhere between half and a quarter of the price of their branded cousins.

[@David-ry9ly]

@@paulhcan I really like their white SGs but I haven't seen one for a while.

[@goodun2974]

I have a late 1990s Made In Mexico James Burton Tele that I quite like. Perhaps Keith should do an episode about the MIM Fenders.

[@amslu]

It’s amazing how Japan Is still making top line quality instruments for Fender. It speaks volumes about Japanese culture and perfection when it comes to design. 🙏👏

[@brandonjackson5865]

American taught Japan manufacturing after WWII and by the 70s they had surpassed us. The Japanese are the best at making a ton of stuff consistently of high quality. Japanese manufacturing is world class everyone else is still chasing them. I’m not saying there’s not nicer boutique builders but as far as production stuff goes, the Japanese own that.

[@ShefortheStre]

@@brandonjackson5865 In Asia, Japanese craftsmanship is still number 1 in quality today.. I own a fernandes burny bass a fender copy made in 1970s, its still play smoothly 👌

[@tomstiel7576]

because of no lazy entitled workers,,,just like the cars@@brandonjackson5865

[@comajoebuck999]

Monoculture

[@davidting3685]

Reminder, its JAPAN. Where perfection are their culture.

[@greg.shred83]

Japanese-built guitars are some of my favorite. I love their culture’s passion for patience, discipline & hard work, business skills and perfection in whatever they work on to design.

[@cliffords2315]

Their Jazz Basses are very nice, and worth allot these days

[@kurikokaleidoscope]

Thank you ⚘

[@danvitco771]

I’ve had my ‘87 MIJ Strat for 36 years. I could tell it was a top notch instrument right off the shelf. It will never be sold.

[@waynerobertson7550]

I've had my MIJ 72' Reissue Strat 37 years and it's still going strong. Needs a reftet only now.

[@jemwand2530]

Is yours a Poly finish? I have an '85 MIJ, which I have owned since new and it is the one guitar that I would never part with. Though it could probably do with a refret!!

[@danvitco771]

@@jemwand2530 i’m not sure. I will check on that.

[@Zer0-Negativ3]

Got a 87 MIJ Strat myself. Dad bought it for me in the early 90s. Ill never sell it.

[@derpderpington100]

I live in Toronto, about 10 minutes from a music shop. They have a Fender Telecaster from Japan in stock, and it is by far the best guitar I've ever played. It took only 10 seconds for me to connect with that, and the guitar always seems to know what I want to play even before I do. Japanese-made Fenders are truly something special

[@davidmacleod9313]

Is it still there?

[@cyberpunk409]

Did you buy it???

[@wrigman]

I once heard John Page say that when they got the first few shipments from Japan, they went over them and wanted to cry they were so good. At that point there was no production and they had only the Japanese guitars. Just as a side note…. I grew up in Fullerton only about 1/2 mile from the factory. I would ride my bike there and peek in to watch guitars being made. Flash forward to 1995, my wife and I moved to Corona, about 1.5 miles from the factory. John Page got tired of working in the Fender factory and founded “Kids rock free” to give kids a place to learn Guitar, piano, drums and dance. It also served as a museum with many of Leo’s amps and guitars. Some celebrity guitars and custom shop guitars. I was asked to be docent, mostly because while my son was in lessons, I would walk around and look at the displays. People would come in to look at the displays. I could hear them Talking to each other wondering how the amps or guitars were made ect. IF I knew the answers, I would tell them What I knew. So, I guess I already was a docent….. kind of. I got to know John and Dana Page pretty well as well as Dana’s co-worker Batina. When it came time to put the final museum together I helped John with a few of the display’s. I can say(and always have)that John Page is one of the most kind, down to earth people I know. If we had more people like him there would be far less strife in this world..

[@Mike_D_5150]

Cool story.

[@Kenzabukuro]

I have an 83 JV Strat and I can see why they cried.

[@scottzimmerman3917]

No you never heard John say that, thats a direct quote from Dan Smith and documented as such , and I was there when all of that ufolded standing next to Dan.

[@wrigman]

@@scottzimmerman3917 OK, I stand corrected. I read that in John’s book….

[@ScottMcdonaldMusic]

I rewatched this short history 3 times because I didn’t want to miss facts. This one was awesome. Late Fender history hasn’t been as well documented as the Leo years.

[@howabouthetruth2157]

Yes, there is so much to remember, it would be very hard to retain all of this knowledge from viewing it once. Someone like me would do better to literally take notes. I find if I have to write something down, I'll most likely remember it better.

[@jasondorsey7110]

And this is just about the guitars from the era...the amps are a whole different story

[@cnotemusic2000]

So good

[@Veeger]

I now have to undo the neck of my JV strat to see what tier it is...later. 🎸🎶

[@poltergeist3194]

Love Japanese Fenders. I bought a Geddy Lee MIJ jazz bass and it it one of the best feeling and playing bass I own. I’ve owned MIM and MIA Fenders at some point in my life. I did like those basses but there is something about that MIJ bass that just feels so good.

[@HiredGunTrio]

My dad got me my first electric guitar back in high school, it was a 1983 SQ Strat, and still to this day, it’s by far the best Strat I’ve ever played! 😎🎸

[@jblassio]

Japanese craftsmanship has always been about the details. Best Fender guitars ever made.

[@thefirstdude]

Fantastic video-thank you! I’ll start off saying Japan is now the only country with a Fender-branded company store. It’s 4 floors around the corner from Takeshita Dori in Harajuku. It’s amazing! I was there for a couple of hours 2 weeks ago, and it’s worth a visit for any Fender fan. The top floor is the new Custom Shop. Back to Fuji Gen (thanks for getting the pronunciation right! 😉). I own one of those newer JV teles and 3 FGNs. Best guitars I own! Thanks again for the great content! From a Californian and current 38-year resident of Japan.

[@mortonwilson795]

Didn't know that! Will drop by when I'm over there in a few months for sure - thanks!

[@darrenworth1236]

I've been to Japan a couple of times, (from Australia). I went looking for the Roland shop in Harajuku, (bought an IR200 Amp and IR Cabinet Sim). On the way back to the Subway, stumbled across the Fender Japan Shop. Fantastic, although I couldn't find a Kotzen Tele, and the in store only tee shirts were way too expensive. Loved the shop though, I have a MIJ '72 Thinline Tele from '89-'90 that I got 2nd hand in Oconomisu (excuse spelling) on my first trip to Japan.

[@furtherdefinitions1]

When I lived in Japan and would go into guitar stores, I would see the Japanese Fender models, and they had guitars that I never saw in the US and all were very well made and sounded and played great

[@ChrisSkinner1]

I think I learned more from this one than I have in a long time! Great vid, Keith!

[@macsarcule]

As soon as I saw this video was available yesterday, I knew I was going to have a lovely Saturday morning watching it with a hot cup of coffee. And then rewatching it. What a perfect Saturday morning. 🙂 Am I going to go rewatch some past short histories from Keith & team? Yes. Yes I am ✌️😌🎸

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Mac Sarule

[@avictorbell2835]

I've lost count of the number of times I've watched the Short History of Rickenbaker

[@CorbenEdward]

My late 80's fender MIJ Tele is the best playing guitar I have ever owned. The wood grain on the body is something else too, very intense. Great video!

[@ricardorodriguez5549]

I had the same one that I loved running through a Bassman 50. It and the rest of my gear was stolen after a gig in Denver in 96. There’s things happen, but I Think about that rig all the time.

[@Sean_Plays_Guitar]

Love my MIJ tele. Great subject matter, Keith. Thanks for being a historian of the culture!

[@MarcCoteMusic]

I own three identical MiJ Strats with the System One bridge - one from '85 and two from '86. They are, to this day, the best playing guitars I've ever owned. They also have perhaps the best tuning stability among my guitars. Truly, the Japanese knew what they were doing back then and likely still do.

[@nickfox7756]

This is probably my favorite guitar related page on KZbin. You do excellent work

[@chrisnash8411]

I've owned several Fender Japanese Models...Love them! Love pretty much anything Fender! Thanks for another great show!

[@mrmet7]

Japanese here. It's funny how Japanese guitar players I know are all about the US Fenders (they even opened the first-ever flagship store here in Tokyo this year), while most American and western guitarists I know here are always looking for Fender Japan guitars. Great video.

[@Questionable_Talent]

The grass is always greener, they say.

[@cjampack2011]

The grass is always greener...lol. Cheers!

[@dantofoz11]

I am becoming increasingly obsessed with Japanese Fender’s. I’m planning a trip to Tokyo soon to bring a couple home with me, can’t wait. Thanks for the video, as usual, top notch.

[@DWLImages]

You nailed it out of the park again with another "Short History"! I am lucky enough to be the first owner of a 2016 Floral "1969 Blue Flower" Telecaster that was hanging on the wall at my local guitar store. I picked up a few Teles that day and when I pick up mine I had that 'ah-ha' moment and understood why Fender Japan released that guitar, it was AMAZING!! Thank you again, for your research to create the video and share with all of us a Five Watt World!

[@WutipongWongsakuldej]

Most US KZbinr would pronounce the name “Fuji Gen” with soft G sound. Keith used the right hard G sound here. That proves how well he knows about what he’s telling and makes the story more believable.

[@shanewalton8888]

I have been a proud owner of Fender Japan over the years. This video had so much info I didn't even know. Thanks Keith.

[@fivewattworld]

Here for you Shane old man!

[@flapjack413]

Thanks for making/sharing this with us, Keith. I've always been a big Fender fan, just as much for the guitars, as for the history of the brand. Fender Japan, however, was a part of the Fender history that until now, I knew very little about, in regard to it's own history anyway. Great job, as always!

[@NotBCT]

Just to add, after the contract with FujiGen ended in the 90s, there was a short period from 1997 up until roughly 2008 where Tokai Gakki was contracted to make some of the higher-end guitars for Fender Japan for the Japanese Domestic Market. They were never meant for distribution outside Japan, but a few of them have made their way out of the country.

[@guitartoneSA]

Correct. And, around about 2010 I was still receiving Tokai TST and TTE models (vintage specs) made with the left over Fender Japan necks and bodies Tokai had in stock. They still make the TST/TTE models but also currently make the AST/ATE models with modified headstock and modern 9.5" neck radius specs.

[@EnJoony]

@NotBCT Actually, Tokai made some Fender Japan guitars in the 80s. I have an 80s Fender Japan catalog and there's a plain as day Tokai logo in one of the shots. Whoops! 😂

[@dt9r]

great video Keith, I finally understood why in mid to late 80s there were only MIJ fender here in Italy 😅 and the one I bought is still my most loved of mine

[@drainaudio]

As a touring guitar tech I own many Japanese Fender instruments that I have extensively modified & provided you're ok with vintage frets & 7.25" radius they are an excellent platform (also great if you re-fret with 6105 which I've done on occasion ). Overall I think the wood quality & finishing is really excellent for what you pay & the rest is all replaceable (as per Leo's design brief). They are so good once built-up, that I have done countless purchase/mods for clients over the years. Somewhat rare now but the "VSP" models are the best option as these feature the closest to vintage USA spec, 2 piece bodies, nitro finish etc. Ishibashi usually have a few in their used inventory - last year I purchased a 2013 ST62 "VSP" from them in CAR in close to new cond', with the exception of a few very minor blemishes to the body (hey, it's Nitro which generally falls off of Fender instruments). By the time I'd replaced all the hardware with Callaham, fitted a set of Kinman pickups, Mojotone pots, Luxe cap, vintage wire etc etc blah blah I was into it for less than 40% of a Custom Shop. The guitar is absolutely killer, has been out with me on tour for the last year as a workstation instrument/emergency backup, has been used on shows by clients & led to more build requests as well as similar mods to existing guitars.....nothing like gutting a Fender Custom Shop because the client wants it to sound/play more like your glorified "Japanese Partscaster". ;)

[@captainhotbunz659]

Thank you for making this one! Always glad to hear you talk about guitars and amps. 🎶🎶

[@davroshalfbeard8368]

Really enjoyed that cheers .japanese craftsmanship is incredible. Their woodworking and joints are mind boggling

[@joshuapark1749]

No lie I just bought a 2023 Fender Strat made in Japan international color in desert and the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail blew me away. I’ve been frequenting many guitar centers for 2 decades and have tried all sorts of guitars and I was amazed at how almost perfectly built it was. It literally felt like a 11 out of 10. Hard to put it into words.

[@zebbult]

They are great. I swap the electronics on all my japanese fenders but the build is excellent.

[@joshuapark1749]

@@zebbultyes definitely agree!!

[@VoxLesPaul]

An amazing level of detail and history on this video. Thanks!

[@rickmichael626]

I found a 1984 Japan Strat about 7 years ago and was my first Fender and always knew that the build was very good. I did some research and realized pound for pound, it was probably going to be the best Strat that I could afford, so I am hanging on to this one. I enjoy it and play it often. Great video as always, stop by for a beer anytime!

[@guithawk-ij8is]

Excellent as always, I love your Short Histories! Back in the early 80s I was doing a lot of top 40 gigging and I really needed a strat, so I picked up a brand new 1983 Japanese "Squier by Fender" stratocaster. I have had this guitar for 40 years and it is my most reliable instrument. It has a few nicks and plenty of wear, but I have never had to do anything to it other than routine maintenance. It plays better than most American made strats I have played. Even using the tremolo the tuning stability is perfect, such a well crafted instrument.

[@doublebass]

I was working at a guitar store in 2006 when a Japanese blue flower single coil P-Bass fell off the wall and chipped the clear coat near the output jack, sat at the store for a year with no one wanting it due to the blemish. Then one day my boss said: grab every scratch and dent guitar in the store, we're gonna blow em all out for $100. I ran to that bass and it's been my go-to ever since. I also bought a japanese aerodyne tele and pj bass ive since sold.

[@eggsbenedict8971]

Dude I love learning about guitars and these videos are so awesome. Keep it up man

[@NovaRedBaron]

I own two MIJ Limited Edition Fender Stratocasters. One with a rosewood, and the other with a maple fretboard. The quality and playability of both are amazing. I'll be keeping these always. Thanks for a great video.🎸🇯🇵👍

[@john2097]

The detail and production of this video is excellent. Thank you for the time and effort to put this together

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks John

[@SMBorthwick]

Great little history lesson. Many thanks. I've always loved Japanese guitars, and I am privileged to own a few - a JV Squier Strat, an A serial Esquire and an E serial Strat as well as a Tokai 'Strat' and a Kasuga 'LP' from the 'lawsuit' era. All beautifully made instruments that are becoming increasingly sought-after. For those who haven't tried one, you definitely should.

[@leedoss6905]

People need to realize Japanese workers take great pride their workmanship. Their Yamaha guitars and Bass's are fantastic wherever they are made.

[@bomamo9620]

Right on. I totally agree with you and the Japanese are known for their craftmanship, just like us Germans. They are into it 100% and try to reach perfection every time they build stuff. Not like others, they are inot it and their philosophie speaks for itself! ;-)

[@jakes6023]

That's the truth man, I have a Yamaha Pacifica and a bass. Pretty sure theyre both Indonesian. Regardless of where the quality on both is great! I just ordered a Japanese made Aerodyne Strat and oh boy am I excited.

[@johnmcevoy3598]

The '70s copies (Super R'N'Roller and Studio Lord) are collector pieces. Great sound and playability,

[@ianrossmusic]

Thanks for this short history of my favorite instruments! My first MIJ acquisition was a medium scale Squier Precision Bass, and ever since then I've become a complete addict, replacing many of my American instruments after they begin to collect dust. I'm also a huge fan of Tokai, but for me the 80s Fender/Squier necks in particular are the absolute pinnacle of comfort. Recently bought a non-catalog MIJ Fender E serial Precision in LPB that is a spectacular unicorn! Love love love this stuff.

[@apostolterminal]

I am a massive Fender fanboy. I own more than 10 Fender guitars and basses, almost all made in Japan from the 80s to the late 90s. It was the only way for me to have a fender instrument with vintage specs without giving up a kidney for a 60s original. I have played many American made fenders in my 20 year guitar journey and honestly my Japanese guitars have nothing to envy, other than the electronics which I have changed to better CTS ones. Thanks for this video!

[@michaelpeterson4406]

Keith..Awesome!! I have learned so much over the years thanks to you and five watt. Thank you for making my day today sir!

[@ragingchimera8021]

I have a few MIJ guitars: Fender, Ibanez, Heartfield... mainly Fuji Gen built. They are one of the best guitar makers in the world. Great job, as always, 5W!

[@johnpandolfino8663]

I have a Japanese Stratocaster....HSS ....Kahler bridge ...all black with a black headstock....bought it in 1986....$450.00....one of the best instruments I've ever purchased.....still have it ...pancaked the frets....played it for 20 years before I retired it and got a 62 Reissue strat.....great job as always Keith

[@JulesFox]

What an amazing retrospective on the complex arrangement between Fender and the beautiful craftsmanship of the Japanese guitar builders.

[@AverageSoul]

Thanks Keith, Great Short History video. You are mastering the perfect blend of story and fact.

[@11calman]

Here in New Zealand, I have a few Fender Strats & also have a few "Tokai" Strats from 1986. Just lovely to play

[@timmyj7092]

Keith, I love what you do so much. Thank you for everything.

[@Andy-ud4ob]

All my current 3 Fender Basses (60's Style White J-Bass/70's Style Natural J-Bass/Standard Black P-Bass) are all MIJ and I love 'em!

[@monmixer]

Yea, Mike is the King of anything you can play surf on. Very knowledgeable. I watched a lot of his videos and your during the pandemic along with many more. Now I know who to go to for any issue to at least ask a question and hopefully get an answer.

[@JonnySuperThunder]

I've had lots of Japanese Strats and Teles over the years and they were very well made.Thanks for this video telling the history.

[@JapanSurvivalGuide]

I'm so glad the guy can actually pronounce Japanese names properly! Thank you!

[@jamesduckworth9117]

Always wondered about the history of why Japan made Fenders. Thanks !!

[@ois-jy9kl]

Got mine built in 1983 I think JV series.... fond it in a second hand store for 125$ .. in 1995. The neck felt amazing. Still got it and its my main guitar.. I've owned at least 25 to 30 guitars in my life.

[@sharkman4928]

Keith, you missed my favorite part of Fender Japan's history.....the Katana era! I was playing and buying, selling, and trading guitars from 1983-present and I lived through this Fender Japan/Squire Japan/Squire Korea era. In 1987 or 1988, I purchased my first brand new guitar from (I believe) Mid-West Music in Cinncinnatti, Oh....it is a LONG and hilarious story but to keep it short, I wanted a Gibson Explorer or Flying V and ended up with a brand new Fender Katana (the list price was $795.00). Wow, what a switch from Fender's traditional line!!!! However, their traditional guitars changed as well. My uncle had a Strat from this era as well and I found it odd to see a Strat with the "Katana" trem system (a forward diving trem with fine tuners, a pop-in whammy bar, and a locking nut)! Both guitars were very high quality but that Katana was really weird!!! I remember there was a MIK Squire Katana (single pickup and bolt-on neck) that was much cheaper. I would have loved the inclusion of this whole side of the story along with what Gibson was doing at the same time.....Gibson was trying to make Super-Strats while Fender was making a set-neck "Randy Rhoads style V". The guitar world was a strange place in the 80's!!! I have a professional photo of me with that guitar (high school senior picture type photo) that I would be happy to share sometime.

[@CarvedTop]

Years ago I bought a 1980's Fender Squier Bullet with the Tele neck for my 13 year old daughter. She's now 29, and we still have it and I still play it. What a sweet little guitar.

[@StandbyCymbalist]

No Jags covered here. I'll survive, haha, but Japan's long affinity for surf music is worthy of a mention. As a career woodworker I'm constantly impressed by Japanese woodworking, traditional and modern. Lots of respect for their skills and dedication to quality work.

[@marcswanson9507]

Had a late 80s Strat from Japan… LOVED it. Everyone that played it loved it, too. It cost me a grand total of about $300-something. Best purchase I’ve ever made. Sadly, had to sell it abou 10 yrs ago to pay bills.

[@thenovello-pugh]

Thank you so much for making this video, Keith. I am lucky enough to have two 1982 JV Squier Strats (a 57 and a 62 copy) and both are amazing instruments.

[@MrBallynally2]

Those early copies were pretty good, especially the 82-83 period. Mine is an early 83 w Fender stamped bridge plate. Replaced the soso pickups. Squier went a little bit wobbly fr 84 on.

[@tomburkhardt811]

Being a lifelong Fender guy, I really enjoyed this and foundvit very informative and interesting. Thanks Keith!

[@Dungeon_of_Regret]

I think this might be your best video you’ve ever made. For one, you shed a light on something we’ve all witnessed, but never knew the story of. As to why these guitars are so damn great. I had no idea there was so much involved. But you may have done the job fender should’ve always been doing all along. Is tell the story of why these guitars are special, and matter.

[@onefastmini]

Back in 1992 I traded a Mexican made Strat copy for a MIJ Waynes World edition Strat with Fender branding. I found out later that is a Squire 2 model, but I always felt like it was "less than" because it somehow wasn't a "real" Fender. More than 30 years later I have recently bought and built 2 MIM Strats and my first US made Strat. After dusting off the old Excalibur and giving it a good setup, I now get to appreciate just how good this guitar really is. Thanks Keith for bringing us these stories.

[@goodun2974]

Perhaps Keith should do a video on the made in Mexico Fender guitars. I have a MIM James Burton Tele from the late 1990s that I quite like.

[@alex_thecarguy]

Your videos never dissapoint, Keith. Even what I expect to be niche topics always turn out teaching me something new while I enjoy the storytelling. Always cool to see the lineage behind guitars and the history behind "close to bankruptcy" moments. Right now my squier paranormal cabronita is my main guitar, and it wouldnt exist without the custom shop, which may never have come to life without fender Japan filling in the income as the US factory moved. Cause and effect. Gotta appreciate the history.

[@elementalfitnesslab]

Being fortunate to live in Japan I regularly check out all the great guitars that blow away anything coming out of the custom shop, and for 1/2 the price. Moridaira, Westville, Terada, Momose, Sugi, Saito, FGN etc...

[@talaris-uk]

Me too! You must also know contemporaries like Edwards, History and Bacchus. Not to mention vintage companies like Fernandez, Aria Pro, Burny etc.There are so many different Japanese makes it can be overwhelming!

[@NK-nk3xe]

Always the most comprehensive videos. Cheers.

[@framusburns-hagstromiii808]

Back in the 80's I had an acquaintance that had connections with Japanese collectors and dealers and he would have them send him all kinds of catalogs from the various brands of guitars only available in Japan. I was amazed at what Tokai, Greco,, Fernandez and others were producing at that time...copies of vintage Fenders,Gibsons,Gretsches, Rickenbacker, not to mention Burns,Vox, Eko, Hofner, Framus basicaly anything cool from the 50's, 60's,70's,etc. So prolific and amazing. Lots of great stuff to discover if you know what to look for and where to look. Cheers!

[@bldallas]

Another excellent history lesson! Thank you!

[@TheSavagederek]

Fender US in the 80s was hit or miss , but one good thing that came with the pleasures coming out of Japan was that by the mid to late 90s Fender US really were knocking out some of their best guitars since the beginning.

[@josecuervo1747]

In 5/1987 I bought a new MIJ Contemporary Tele to celebrate my graduation from college. E serial number, gun metal grey body, glossy black neck and headstock, H-S-S config, with a trem. Over the years I’ve added 20 some acoustic and electric guitars to my collection and always thought of that MIJ Tele as “less than” until about 10 years ago, when I read that they are highly sought after. I still have it. I played that thing so much when I was poor that when I made some money, and could afford Gibsons, every time I played a Gibson I’d catch myself reaching for the trem bar I was so used to on that Contemporary Tele. Really appreciate your research and presentation on this one. 👊🏻👊🏻

[@aschilds]

I have a Fuji Gen Gakki Stratocaster and it's by far the best guitar I have ever played, let alone owned. The attention to detail is beyond exceptional and I consider myself lucky to have been able to find one let alone pick it up.

[@robmbrooks]

I tried to buy a candy apple red MIJ Fender in the late 80s just like the one you show, my card got declined, I walked away dejected. It is to this day "the one that got away". I would not be able to resist this guitar!

[@Leel3ones89]

Great video Keith as always. I imagine it's getting pretty tough to come up with new "Short History of" videos, you've covered almost everything.

[@pulaski1]

I think that's why he has started doing the "usage history" of specific guitar players, as that series is going to have an almost unlimited number of possible videos.

[@fivewattworld]

And the new top 20 videos. But it’s still a long list of sh videos to be made.

[@AbzorTCryteK]

I learned a lot about my 85’ MIJ E series strat from your Fender history video about 4 years ago. Randomly tonight I decided to research more about Fender Japan only to come across a dedicated video uploaded a few days ago. Great content!

[@dw7704]

Glad to see Squier mentioned as the early Squiers were quite good. The original Bullet models also showed up in the early 80s, although some of the Bullets weren’t very good, but some were. Cool video

[@Bigjoedo66]

Great video Keith!! My Solid Rosewood Telecaster was MIJ

[@ThundersMcCoy]

The best bass Fender ever made was the made in Japan Jazz Bass Special. It's the only bass I play while all of my other Fenders sit in the closet, in the cases, unused & untouched for what is decades now. My only regret is not buying another one when they were available.

[@tommyblackwell3760]

Absolutely agree! I bought one new in 1985, ended up having to sell it in 2000 when I went through some hard times. But I always regretted it, and ended up getting another off of Reverb about 4 years ago. Hard to say whether I play it or my Ric 4001 more, but between them they make sure I don't play my other basses very often (and even then only because I feel guilty for them sitting in their cases).

[@bomamo9620]

I am with you. Read my comment on it. 🙂

[@alonsoroman4907]

What a great script and detailed research you did. Thanks for sharing this

[@richardandrews6754]

fascinating video as always, It may surprise you to know I have never played a note on a guitar of any kind, testimony to your presentation style, no one, but no, does it better. keep them coming, more like this please.

[@bartmuller7727]

My MIJ Fender story is about the one that got away: I bought a Fender branded Japanese Strat in 1988 when I was attending MI in Holmywood as a drummer. I never really learned to play at that time, but everyone who touched that guitar loved it. I sold it about 12 years later because I needed the money and still hadn't learned to play. Then, 2 years later I caught the guitar bug and have been playing ever since. Wish I had that one back...

[@edlib02169]

I have a pile of vintage Gibsons and other axes… but my main go-to everyday guitar is an E-Series MIJ Strat that I have extensively customized. There’s something magic about it.

[@cgoebbert]

This was actually a comment on the last video I watched w/ an EB/MM Valentine. I think it posted here b/c of auto play: Bought One in the same tobacco sparkle finish about 9 mos ago. Found it online at a GC as a B stock w/ blem for $1000 less. When it arrived, the case was smashed in in a couple of places but guitar was FLAWLESS. Plays like a dream and the boost and coil split options are super useful. And it looks damn good!

[@chrisbergmann6280]

I ordered a 75th year stamped MIJ Aerodyne bass from the factory in 2021 (named her Aja after a NDE I had in 2021….I ordered her from my hospital bed) An absolutely beautiful bass that arrived in perfect factory set up condition😊

[@TenFalconsMusic]

Nice👍 Did you get a domestic or export model? I ordered an Aerodyne JB (export) during lockdowns in early 2020. Like yours, it came perfectly set up and of a quality beyond my wildest expectations.

[@chrisbergmann6280]

I got it direct from the Japanese factory……so export I believe.

[@TenFalconsMusic]

@chrisbergmann6280 Easy way to tell which one you have: The Domestic models have pick-guards and metal control/input panels, while the Export models don't. They're both excellent, though only the Domestic models are still made with P/J pickup configurations. Whereas the Exports (post 2020) now only come with P or J.

[@chrisbergmann6280]

Mine has no pick guard, strat style black chrome metal input Jack and P/J configuration, black on black with stained rosewood marker less fretboard with a cream binding……one of the nicest looking basses made…..imho 😊

[@TenFalconsMusic]

@chrisbergmann6280 Yo definitely have an Export model. I have the same and I too thinks is probably the best playing, most aesthetically brilliant basses ever. The body contour really gets the strings out in the open and the neck feel is... Well... Perfect in my opinion. I've played a little over 60 gigs with it so far and it's been an absolute workhorse. And that sound! Combined with it's lightweight design, it is now officially my #1 for recording & live shows. P.S. Be careful of the body wood (basswood) as it dents easily.

[@EricJohn2008]

I have one of these from 1993. It has the CUSTOM EDITION sticker on the back of the headstock. I looked up the number and it dated back to 1993. It has an 8 screw pick guard. It has the exact appearance of a 1954 Stratocaster. This one was made for the Japanese market. (so I was told) The guy that traded it in to Guitar center was stationed in Japan according to the Guitar Center manager (manager was a friend also) who questioned him. The thing that made me stop and look was the 3-way pickup selector that I discovered when I reached out to pick it up. Heavy too! It resonated through my body even before I plugged it in, that was all I needed as I took it to pay whatever the price was, as there was no price tag attached yet as I soon learned. One salesman told me I didn't want that year Fender and I quickly told him it was sold already. I had seen that look before, and that salesman wanted that guitar but too bad. I've owned it for 20 years now and many that see it and get to play it want it. I got a good deal on it in the end and the tone! Sen-Ash body around 12 pounds.💥 It hangs on my wall in my studio and makes a rare appearance on a gig very occasionally.❤

[@JeffHendricks]

In the late 90's, Squier/Japan came out with some really creative guitars, including clear-finish Strats, and limited runs like the Venus and Super-Sonic (I still own a Venus). The story behind the Squier Venus, Courtney Love, and Mercury Guitars is possibly worth a video on it's own.

[@jonny_aimless]

After owning some two dozen USA strats, including 3 AVRIs, my 83 MIJ Squire Strat is still my favorite, and will likely always be my go-to strat.

[@dt9r]

my main guitar is a MIJ 1986 Fujigen '72 reissue Ltd stratocaster, still the best

[@28reinvent]

You left out one of the best manufactures in Japan during this time. Fernandes made some very high end teles and strats. I have a tele from 1979 (I believe) that is as good as it gets. Fernandes is still making great instruments.

[@maggieo]

Robert Quine played a Fernandes Strat when he was in Lou Reed's band. He had loads of 'em!

[@Wargasm54]

Funny you should mention Fernandes. I went to purchase an amp from a guy a few years back. Of course I wanted to check out the amp before I bought it. So I went over to the guys house and he said “what kind of guitar would you like to use to test it (the amp) out?” . I just pointed to the closest guitar. It was a strat shape so I thought to myself “good enough “. Once I played it the conversation quickly went from my interest in the amp to my interest in the guitar . 😂. I looked at the headstock to see what it was. It said “Fernandes” made in Japan. I made an offer on the spot for the guitar and amp. But unfortunately for me, I only left with the amp. He did not want to part with the guitar. I completely understand his sentiment. It played better than any other Strat or Strat style guitar I had ever played. Of course I’m more of a Gibson guy, but that Fernandes Strat was insane. It was well worn in but not beat up. Played like a dream and held tune incredibly well. I’ve often thought about that guitar. But have never run into another.

[@davideatwell6577]

Indeed

[@londreslush]

Best Guitar i've ever had was a Fernandes strat , mid 1980's revival model , still kicking myself for selling it ..

[@davideatwell6577]

@@londreslush I have one, it's superb, best neck I have ever played

[@jodieunganum1465]

Yes. That is the important stuff. Looking for it

[@AndyH2O]

Nice, I do like a Japanese Fender from the 80's. As an aside it would be worth stating that the first models to be exported from Japan as Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters, rather than as Squiers, were the Fender Contemporary models. These were very different from the traditional Strat and Tele in that they occupied a space in the "superstrat" niche. I have a Tele from 1986 and it is a really great guitar. There's a Wikipedia page with a few more details, these guitars are quite hard to come by.

[@Fastvoice]

Why do you all misspell "Squier" as "Squire" - including the titles in the video?

[@AndyH2O]

@@Fastvoice The obvious answer is that the word 'squire' pre-existed the brand-name 'Squier' and it is an easy mistake to make. Does that help?

[@skxj]

@AndyH20 yes you are correct sir, I remember when they showed up, took a month or so for me and I bought a silver/grey HH black neck Strat that I still have today, I was also lucky to find a black/black neck '86 at a pawn shop not long ago. They are both awesome guitars.

[@ryanhurst3859]

I've been into these MIJ guitars for 15 years, acquiring knowledge through many forum posts over the years (and owning quite a few--5 currently--). Feels really cool to see all the info curated in one video like this. The "Extrad" models was something I'd never heard of.

[@duanejrcarriere5997]

My uncle had a made in Japan fender. It was a 1994 model. It only has one volume and one tone switch. He used it for his gigging back in the 90s and early 2000s and then let it rot in my fathers basement. So my brother and I decided to bring the guitar back to life and fixed up the wiring and now I’m making it sing like it hasn’t ever been played before (still got to get the frets replaced one day)

[@markbrooks7257]

I bought my 1988 Candy Apple Red MIJ '62 Strat off FB marketplace 8 years ago for $250 shipped. The seller shipped it, neck and body separated in a flat rate USPS box with the headstock sticking out of the top. It arrived to me and smelled quite like cigarettes and other smoke that's not exactly legal where I live. After several rounds of cleaning, it quickly became my #1 for years. Today, it's getting new frets and I watched this video while doing the first few steps of that fret job. Thanks for making these videos, they are a joy to have on in the background while I'm working on guitars.

[@Wargasm54]

Japanese built guitars are just insane. Wether it’s Fender or Gibson knock offs. The Tokai and Greco guitars are stellar. I’m glad Fender still has a Japanese built line. I have 2 ESP guitars that are just utter perfection. I love my USA Gibson’s too. But the build quality on Japanese guitars are second to none. I think Korean guitars are highly underrated now.

[@cliffords2315]

"Insane" LOL come on now

[@mysticmusic6045]

i and several of my friends have the 1985 Tele custom model from Japan. We all love them. I replaced the entire (small pots, small wires) harness with American parts, and a set of Lollars vintage T pickups. I have said it many times it might be my best sounding guitar. I have a 1963 Strat that I assume shares the dot pattern with the Telecaster of the time, and the 1985 model had them in the same exact spot, neck shape as well was spot on. Thanks for the cool video, it gives me more appreciation for my guitar.

[@maraviyoso8473]

WHERE ARE THE AERODYNE GUITARS?????????????

[@TheAdjacents-ABQ]

I look forward to every one of your videos. They make me smile.

[@moutonrothschild5729]

A great video as always; I'm a huge fan of Japanese Fenders. How about a deep dive into the early Squier brand? The Silver Series Squiers are already legendary in select circles. How about a review of those and their Korean and Chinese counterparts? I've played great Squier from all these countries, would love to see the whole history laid out...

[@nsp477]

I own a Fujigen single cut; it's one of the best guitars I have ever played. On par with my Les Paul Custom in terms of build quality, for less than half the price. After my first ten years in Japan I thought I would try a guitar made by a local maker, so I looked into Tokai, Saito, Takamine and Fujigen. There was this KZbin video by the CEO of Fujigen where he stated that he did not want to sell the most guitars; he wanted to make the best guitars. That's what piqued my interest.