Baxter get his hands on one of the sought after early made in Japan Stratocaster's. Do you have one of these, are you on the hunt for one? Let us know in the comments what you are into?
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I always have great admiration for MIJ. there attention to detail and craftsmanship is exceptional. Any one can tell when someone took ownership and pride of what's been made. 🎸🎸
@@CasinoGuitars J.V Squier for the European market which I have. Come with Fullerton pick ups apart from the late 82s due to Fujigen running out. Japanese Sq5 pick ups where fitted for a few months while the Fullerton pick ups where on their way to Japan. ST 57/62 - 65 where the same as the squier apart from the logo which says Fender. These where domestic models made for the Japanese Market. 65 means 65,000 yen which is the price. Next up was the ST 57/62 - 85 (85,000 yen) which where the same as the 65, but had all USA hardware including pickup, electrics and hardware but not pots. These where Japanese. Then the top spec was ST 57/62 - 115 (115,000 yen) which was the same as the 85 but had a nitro finish and cts pots. For a very short period after this they released the SQ 72 which features a large headstock hence the 72 and fitted with Japanese sq5 pickup. I don't know a huge amount about these, but still a very good guitar. Hop this helps.
@@CasinoGuitars i own a surf green 54 MIJ reissue strat. I have always had a theory that these were made with the generation of people that remembered the war between us and them. I think that not only your run of the mill pride but these people wanted to show they could outdo the Americans at things. And I believe they nailed it. I have had so many people try to buy mine off of me over the years.
The MIJ Squiers from the 80s were incredible value for the price. The more recent MIJ Charvels and Jacksons are also great. Japan just makes great guitars!
Baxter, the blue “65” sticker on back of the headstock designates the model price tier…for that one it designates a JV ST62-65 model and a 65 yen price tier. Price tiers were -65, -85, and -115. That one is a lower tier model.
@@CasinoGuitars yea, the 65 was very close specks to the Squier, 85 had USA made pickups and nitro finish. 115 was the top of the line, usually elder wood, USA pickups, pots electronics and nitro finish.
The "65" denotes the price point. On this guitar it is elevated due to the finish primarily. The "40"s were the cheapest, due to the hardware. The "50" was the typical specimen, with stamped saddles and Kluson style tuners. Every level above that was generally about the finish afaik. Note that Tokai did a thin laminate rosewood board, but "Fender Japan" never did. Another point of interest is that Fender were going to use Tokai to build 'em, but backed out at the last minute and went with Fugijen, who were making most of the Greco's. It is said that the initiial publicity shots were actually of Greco's with the Decal switched out. The fact that a lot of the early MIJ's were made of Sen bears this out, because a lot of the Greco's were.
Yes, the guitar is a ST62-65, the most common model, which was 65,000 yen. There was also the ST62-85 and ST62-115 that year that were slightly more expensive with more accurate details, but the differences are very minor if you just want to play it.
@@jonnyrochester1141the electronics and pickups are sooooo much better in the higher end ones. The pickup selector in the 65s is worth about a dollar and made of plastic. You may or may not believe. Like the original plastic string trees on jap strats remember those? Horrible little things! The guitars are nice though many have very slim necks which I don't particularly like. Still great guitars to be honest.
They always say “set realistic goals to your guitar playing” and my goal is to play like you. But man it’s tough, it’s both solo and rhythm and improv with a touch of magic. You’re such an incredible player!
Don’t own an electric guitar… BUT, a Japanese built Takamine acoustic is hard to beat! Impeccable build quality, great playability, wonderful tone, and the very best acoustic pickup,(Palathetic), and preamp,(CoolTube3). Moving to Phoenix, so sold two Takamines and bought a RainSong carbon fiber Jumbo. However, if I ever move out of the desert, and want a wooden guitar again, I would most likely buy a Tak!
I have to agree with you Jed, hard to beat a Takamine. I bought mine around 1993/94. The shop I bought it from had 2 available. I tried the cheaper one and although it sounded ok I was not convinced. The 2nd one was twice the price but you could hear a big difference in the sound. It came with a satin finish but after so many years it started to look a little tired so the other day I decide to spruce it up. I used a light cutback car polish then a hard wax. The finish was beyond my wildest dreams...looks better now than when I first bought it.
I’ve never had a crappy Japanese built guitar. I’m sure they’re out there. Especially in the “lawsuit” era. But I’ve always had great luck with my Japanese built guitars. Love my ESP’s.
Thats it - "I’ve never had a crappy Japanese built guitar" all Japanese guitars I played were perfect. There is no other country that makes guitars as good as Japan - says a German.
I was a teen in the 80s. Back then MIJ guitars had a stigma attached to them. Because less expensive they had an image of being “cheap”, therefore considered inferior to USA made. Kind of how made in China or Indonesian produced guitars are considered today. I had a USA San Dimas factory built Rhoads in 84, but got an 86 MIJ Charvel to use daily for music school and regardless of how good I knew the Charvel was, I still considered it inferior just because it was Japanese. With time the stigma faded away and now I love MIJ instruments.
@@danwilson9530I’ve seen some pretty crappy Chinese guitars. But all the Indonesian guitars I’ve played have been fairly nice. I have an Indonesian Schecter Explorer that’s as nice as some of my nicer ESP’s and Gibson Custom Shop stuff. Maybe I just got lucky. But I have a Korean LTD that’s pretty sweet too.
Own an SQ Squier series Strat bought new at Manny’s NYC in 1983, $150 w/hard case. Long story, but it is without a doubt the best Strat I own. Original one has a rosewood board, last year I picked up its twin with a maple board, equally amazing. In 2020 I bought two of the black paisley MIJ Strats purely for collecting, put in Fender molded cases unplayed (one day my siblings are in for a few surprises). I wouldn’t hesitate to buy more MIJ Fenders if I had the $$$, they are just that good. The true master luthier who refretted my original SQ (stainless/bone nut) told me while he doesn’t really like Strats this was the best Strat he’d ever come across in 50 years. People have poo poohed this guitar since the day I got it simply because it says “Squier” on the headstock. Once they played it they STFU, many tried to buy it off me, one guy tried to steal it, another offered me $3000 for the neck! If you have a chance to get a CIJ/MIJ Fender you won’t regret it.
I have a huge “lawsuit” ibanez collection bought when snobs turned their noses up at them! I got most for extremely cheap prices. The quality is much better than anything Fender or Gibson had to offer at the time.
I have a Fender Japan Contemporary Strat that still gets love to this day. It's an odd single humbucker with a locking trem, but it's just a fun guitar and the craftsmanship is amazing. Japanese guitar manufacturers really seem to take guitar making seriously, which is why a lot of people will say Navigator/Edwards/ESP are outdoing Gibson and Fender and are willing to import those guitars. While I don't know what the training is to make guitars for Fender, I know ESP makes you go to luthier school for 2 years before you can build in their Japanese facility.
I think I had the same one. I saw it and I wanted it. Played and sounded like a dream. I traded it for another contemporary strat. I traded it because I wanted a sister for yet another contemporary strat I own and love. The Japanese don’t like flaws. They just don’t allow it. Nothing will leave the factory until it’s a perfect product. In the USA and in other countries it’s considered good enough when 95% of anything leaving the factory is good. Same with cars. I live in Europe and I used to buy a ‘new’ second hand car every two years. Always old and cheap stuff. I think I have had 10 or 11 Japanese cars and an equal number of European cars over the years. I never had problems with any of the Japanese cars. The European cars however…
@@mariodriessen9740 I can only agree, The Japaneses take pride in what they make, here in the UK no one cares unless you pay for a luthier built guitar. I have rejected a lot of sub standard guitars from the USA, but never had a bad sample from Japan. As for cars, although the early Japanese cars rusted, they started in cold damp mornings and rarely broke down. UK cars also rusted, but you were lucky if they started, with no confidence that they would get you to work.
Got a Chandlerised MIJ ‘62 Strat from 90s and a recent MIJ special run L/H Fiesta Red rosewood board. Both terrific guitars.. as good as anything out there, top quality build.
Got a 1987 mij 72 reissue in antique white or buttercream as it’s known these days been modified to death and back and needs some fretwork. But I love it the most
one of the best strats i have ever played was a japanese squier from the 80s. might not have had the greatest electronics in there, but the neck was so amazing. one of these guitars that you dont stop playing once you pick it up
I also had one. My first electric guitar ever. I got it, because it looked like Clapton’s Blackie. God, I wish I had it back…… sold it for some Air Jordons. Huge mistake, but that’s youth 🤨
@@santrixhimself3679 I wish my friend, but I actually played outdoor basketball in them and they were fried within a year. I guess you can say I gave them the“heavy relic” treatment. 😬
Agree. I have a black Japanese squier from the early 80s. Best neck and playing fender I have owner including custom shop. Put in a set of suhr pickups as I agree the pickups weren't the best and it has stayed my No1 guitar.
I've got an '83 Tokai Goldstar (60's style Strat), and without doubt it's the best Strat I've ever played. The only issue with 70's and 80's era MIJ guitars is that they were so unloved for so long, that the survivorship and documentation is poor. It's hard to know what you're getting into, but worth it if you do the homework (or buy from a trusted source).
My first guitar that i learned on was a Tokai, it was the best sounding one in the store that i could afford. I wish i still had it, but traded it in for a USA Strat that had multiple issues, big mistake.
Love the Tokais as well, I have a 83 Goldstar Sound with a 3 tone burst Rosewood board, maple neck, and an 80 Springy Sound Strat that is just amazing. I played both of them against a 62 CS reissue, tonally, hardly nothing in it, apart from the CS costing like 6x more than the Tokais. The MIJ Strat were awesome, personally speaking, I think MIJ Guitars are some of the best around no doubt
65 sticker designates 65000 yen. The 85 is a step up with nitro , the 115 was highest end. Thee 65 did have USA pickups tho. I’ve got a couple, they are great!! Nice video!
Sold my American deluxe Strat in 3 tone sunburst and have been having sellers remorse. Just found a Made in Japan 96 Strat in same exact color for $400 on marketplace! I’m picking it up this weekend!
Japanese build quality is always stand out. Not lucky enough to have one of those Fender models, but do have a Japanese built Gretsch Country gentleman that is amazing.
My first guitar was a Fernandes early 90s MIJ strat copy. Got it brand new for next to nothing due to a music store going out of business. I still have it and it's just a killer guitar.
I have had em all folks!!! Eric Clapton custom shop strats, American strats, Deluxe strats, standard strats, Mexican strats, you name it! I just picked up a few months ago a Japan made strat from 2013. It is the dragon finish that was made with another model that was the Geisha Girls version. There is NO comparison between these guitars and the American models. These guitars are absolutely exquisite! It is a 62 reissue and I can't stress enough the attention to fit and finish from the frets to intonation every where all the way up the neck. You can't slide a cigarette paper in between the neck and the joint to the body! And the sound is out of this world! This strat will never leave me!!
Mine too. A mid-80's Standard Strat in Lake Placid Blue with Rosewood 'Board. I thought it was a Contemorary model for years but I was educated a few years back. Anyway, sold and regretted selling. Replaced with a (definite) Contemporary Strat with System 2 Trem. Quality guitar. Will never be sold
My Son has a MIJ '66 RI Jazzmaster w/Block Inlays. It has been a fantastic instrument. I recently purchased from the Tokai Japan Custom Shop a '54 RI Goldtop. The craftsmanship and materials on this Tokai easily rival the offerings from Gibson USA. Originally I had looked at a Gibson R4 and chose the Tokai partially because it is offered with Jumbo Sankyo Frets.
I bought an MIJ 50’s Telecaster a long time ago. No specific year noted just called the 50s Telecaster. Deep v maple neck and maple fingerboard. Bridge pickup went bad and was replaced. It got dropped and has a small chunk out of the body on the lower rear edge. Ended up replacing the pickups completely. The neck takes a bit of getting used to but it still plays a dream.
The "65" sticker behind the neck indicates its original price being 65,000 yen, which would be equivalent to $480 in the 2022 exchange rate (without taking into account the price changes of goods in 40 years).
I have a fender stratocaster from '89-90 "I" serial number. I bought it new in 1990. Best neck i've ever played. Small frets, but a bit bigger neck than the American or Mexican guitars i've owned. I've owned many american guitars but I still love that old japan guitar the most! Currently trying to find that neck on ebay!
I have a ‘52 Tele JV Export from ‘82 and ‘62 Strat ST62-70 from ‘89. Both are great MIJ instruments - I’ve had the chance to sell, but have held on to them because they are extremely playable. I’ve never felt the need to buy American-made Fender guitars because these get the job done when plugged into a good Fender amp.
I purchased a used MIJ left-handed '62 Telecaster for my young son back in the early 2000's. It was an amazing guitar, my only regret was that it wasn't right handed. I would have kept it when he decided to quit playing.
My first guitar was a used lefty MIJ 1987 E-series 62 reissue cream colored strat that I bought in 1999 for around $400. It had some cosmetic issues and the electronics were a bit shoddy, but I replaced the entire pickguard assembly and I still have that guitar.
I saved as a teenager to buy a brand new Fender Stratocaster, because Blackmore played them. It was a 1979 made in America Strat, and it was the biggest piece of crap I've ever owned. Neck pocket was routed way too big, fretwork was sub-par, and it weighed as much as a refrigerator. Fast forward 35 years, purchased a used 2011 ESP Standard Series Made in Japan Eclipse. The guitar is PERFECT. Having worked for over 25 years in a Toyota plant, l saw first-hand the Japanese work ethic. A fanatical work ethic. I have purchased 2 more ESP E-ll's as they're called now, both PERFECT. Nothing but Japanese built guitars for me from now on.
A few days back I found an MIJ fender telecaster from 1989-1990 with a 50's body & 70's neck. Amazing instrument in near mint condition for under 1k. I live in Tokyo and guitars are my life. Japan has a lot to offer in that realm. The only thing I hate is their guitar store tradition of keeping every guitar strung with 9's & tuned down to flap while on the wall. Then you ask to try it and they tune it up to standard. BACKBOW EXTREME! A lot of guitars sold here on the used market have neck warp due to that absurd practice being common among players as well. If only fender told them that there is a truss rod..
I hung on to my MIJ Fender Strat that I bought in 1987. It spends all it's time in a case due to the small-ish frets (Ive come to love jumbo frets) but I drag it out every once in a while.
I have a Fernandez that I bought new from Alex’s 48st in 85. It replaced my real 62 that I destroyed with a Floyd Rose. It has the thin C neck and is 2 tone tobacco burst. I heard it was possibly made in MIJ factory? Great guitar,still playing it. Thanks for another great video!
I have a MIJ Squire that is an absolute GEM. Swapped the pickups. That's it. The rest of the guitar is stock. Plays like butter, great intonation, just a beautiful piece of gear.
@@CasinoGuitars yeah, it was mint condition and a so became too nice to take out. ATB guitars sold it for me. I never collected the money, it went halfway to buying a blonde 65 Jaguar they had.
Guitar isn't my primary instrument, but i do love everything about it. It's why i come here every day to learn more. Thank you for what you do for us. me: i have one electric guitar- a '21 MIJ Jazzmaster Noir. after seeing it, it was love at first sight. i had considered the AM Pro II, and was ready to move on it, as kind of a 'well, i need a guitar for projects, but since i can't find anything that really jumps out at me functionally and aesthetically, i might as well...' and then that magic moment with a broker in Tokyo. within a week, my new guitar arrived, and i couldn't have been more thrilled. for me, this is a familial pass-down instrument, and i hope my descendants enjoy it as much as i do. It's a true love story!
I have a 2020 MIJ domestic mkt strat. It’s a keeper. Was lucky enough to find a shop in Seattle that had them in stock so I could play away my doubts first. Very much a 50s strat but with modern touches. Like, a big fat neck, check. But they make these Kluson-looking (gorgeous) locking tuners with a very simple, elegant mechanism. Anyway, def should be on any strat cat’s radar.
I have a couple JV Strats, a white ‘62 series from 1982 and a fiesta red ‘57 series from 1983. Both are great players. Both light too at just over 7 lbs. There were three tiers to the JV Strats: ST-65, ST-85 and ST-115. That’s what the little “65” sticker is about. The 65s were the standard model and featured custom color poly finishes. The 85s had a nitro finish and a steel rather than zinc alloy vibrato block. The 115s had upgraded hardware and (typically) sunburst finishes. Both of my JVs are 65s (with steel vibrato block upgrades). I also put a pickguard loaded with René Martinez MojoTone lipstick pickups and snazzy pots & switches on the red ‘83.
I'm on a tight budget and don't own any AM Fenders, but three MiM Player Strats that are fantastic for the money. Couple of years ago got lucky and bought a 2011 LN MIJ Fender Pawn Shop '51 and it is amazing. The difference is fit and finish and the neck is the nicest of any of my 24 guitars. They really spent the time rolling the edges and finishing the frets, it feels and plays fantastic! The second you pick it up you know it is a special guitar.
I swear by Japanese made guitars, they really are the best. My #1 that's gonna be with me forever is an ESP Snapper I picked up a few years ago on a trip out there and recently got a new Fender aerodyne tele and I'm loving it. Would love to get my hands on one of these 80's guitars too, whether it's a Fender, Tokai, Greco etc
Most MIJ Strats from the 80's and 90's I've run across have been Ships of Theseus. They've had so many parts changed, refretted and shaved necks, repairs and so forth they bear little resemblance to what left the factory.
@ Frank Carr. Maybe in the USA, i'm in the U.K & have a 84 JV strat 2 tone 57 re-issue completely original including original sales slip & allen key in plastic bag for the saddles..
that blue sticker on the back of the headstock is the price, not the year. that sticker means it was sold in japan originally. That model is a B grade (there were A,B and C grades), which were relabelled squire and sold in the US. The model number for that guitar is st62-65. The A grades have a blue sticker that says 115 on the headstock. Even though it doesn't say squire on the headstock, that's one of the squires everyone raves about. If you take that sticker off the headstock then you'll have to pull the neck off to identify it by the B stamped in the neck cavity.
Bought my lefty MiJ strat around ‘95. Late 80’s serial number. Lovely guitar, as a lefty don’t have much to compare it to. At time of purchase was difficult to find any LH guitars so was grateful to purchase.
Absolutely worth it. Too many folks think their old American one just can’t be beat. Yeah, American automakers thought the same thing for years and years, and their arrogance led to their downfall.
This is just the thing!! I used to lust after American made instruments but these days I’d never buy an American car … so why do I need an American made guitar or amp?
Ya there used to be a Ton of loud&proud MIJ haters back in the day. Eventually they just kinda disappeared. The instruments being fantastic probably helped some :)
Hello, look, I have had two Fender Stratocaste 60's reissue from the 90's, one L series and the other I don't remember. They are perfectly assembled, but you can only hear the strings and not the body. It is because the quality and drying of the wood is not optimal, and they also paint it with acrylic paint, which is very hard!, and prevents the wood from moving. Both, no matter how beautiful they were, I sold them. Now I use Reissues Made in Mexico and Made in USA. Both extraordinary. Greetings
I have had one from the year 1987. I bought it new from a shop in Helsinki way back then and never sold it. Serial number search says: Labeled: Made in Japan Year:1984-1987 Manufacturer: Fujigen, Japan It has been my working horse since -87. Cream white strat ( with replaced pickups I have to add )
I’ve got an 87 Japanese strat. It’s the candy apple red 62 or 63 reissue. One of the best feeling guitars I’ve ever laid my hands on. I just recently dropped a set of CS 69 pups in it…and man that thing sings. She can hang with the best of them
I was in Japan last October and went to Ochanomizu (Guitar Street) and found a Ritchie Kotzen signature Strat and had to get it. It was less than $1000 including a Fender hard case but I ended up flying home without it and getting it mailed to me. Alas, $1300, including shipping. Still, it's a stunning guitar with translucent blonde finish, maple neck and DiMarzio pickups (my least favorite part), 3-ply pearloid pickguard and gold hardware.
They knew what they were doing in Japan great quality control even back then..Look at the classic Aria guitars,basses and Acoustics doing the 80s...I have some of those and they are amazing..Even those Japanese Epiphone Elites are really good too..want one but they are so rare and expensive...now I'll have to put those Japanese Fenders and squiers on my list..Great video and playing Baxter!!
I own a early 2000s Korean Stratocaster , light swamp ash body ,amazing Birdseye maple neck with very interesting neck profile,Seymour Duncan pickups,one off fender logo on the headstock.it’s my favorite guitar,definitely my prettiest ,it plays on par with my 🇺🇸 fender deluxe ,better than my hwy 1.I just never knew,I’ll never underestimate Asian built fenders again 🌎❤️🎸I think it’s the last design out of the Cort factory ,so nice!…where are the American Birdseye maple neck s,freaking beautiful 😍
I have several of the less expensive E series from that 83 to 86 Era(2 Tele, 2 strat). Replaced the ceramic pickups with various Fender vintage series. Love these and doubt I'd trade for any USA standard regardless of year. Not sure if it is the wood or the makers mojo.... Very special instruments.
I have several MIJ Strats. One is a G series from 88. It's in buttercream, completely stock. It is a wonderful guitar. I have a fairly rare one from 90-91. It has a wide thin maple neck, with EMG active pups. Two single coils and a HB that can split and has a 10 DB boost when in HB mode. It also game stock with a Kahler Floyd Rose. It's in Seafoam green. I've never seen another one like it.
I have a '94 MIJ Malmsteen model, scalloped fingerboard and a 50's smaller headstock. The thing absolutely rips, best Strat I've ever picked up. Looking at one of the domestic model 60's Traditionals currently. Love a MIJ!
I wanted to get an MIJ Squier a few years ago but they're going real high in the states. Found out that MIJ fenders were made in the same factories and going for real steals from Japan. I got my '93-'94 ST62-70 for $534 shipped in 2020. Man I tell ya I love this guitar so much. Gotoh tuners. I did swap out all the electronics tho. '57-'62 USA Fender pickups and mad hatter wiring. SUCH A MAGNIFICENT PLAYER.
I lived in Japan for 20 years ending in 2008.. I know all about Fender Japan guitars. They come in different price levels. The cheaper ones are made of basswood and have Japanese basic electronics.. The very best ones the extrads are made with really good wood and have American electronics. Those are rare as hens teeth and if you find one buy it those are about the best strats ever made.
@@sfu421 They will say "EXTRAD" on the back of the headstock. You won't find one. They usually have the model number in the neck pocket. The '80s are great but so are the high end models made today. here's a high end one made in the late '90s. I was living in Tokyo at the time and had a great after-work band called the "Tokyo AllStars." I had half a dozen cool suits with matching FJ Strats. Kanda Shokai was the sales section and Yamano Gaki is a large music chain. Japan makes Lexus, USA makes Ford and Mexico makes cocaine. Should sum up the quality conversation.
I've owned and still own about every make of Strat and Tele and I gotta say the Richie Kotzen MIJ Telecaster is hands down the greatest sounding guitar I've ever owned and I've owned a lot. I had a MIJ carvel from the 80s and I wish I had never broke and sold the remains of that. Rock n Roll can be hazardous. What can I say? Ive learned to tone it down
We bought 2 Japan made fender strats from South Shore Music, near Boston in 1989, one red, one white! still have them in family seen very little wear, use. I believe we paid $348.99 ea!
Fender still sells a full range of brand new made in Japan Stratocasters, Telecasters, Jazzmasters, Bass etc in other countries. If you wandered into a music store in Australia or NewZealand you'd find them. They are priced a bit less than the MIM models., Also with the older made in Japan Fenders, I have heard from numerous sources that those that have "crafted in Japan" on the base of the neck as opposed to "made in Japan" are supposed to be of a higher quality. Wether this is true or not IDK but they do pull a premium price in the used market.
Purchased a Crafted in Japan 52 Reissue Tele and it is amazing! I have had everyone from Luthiers to other players say it is the Best Tele they have seen & played....True believer and holding onto this.........
Last year I bought a MIJ Ibanez RG550DX reissued as one of the Genesis collection models, after paying £925 which I thought was expensive I now realise it was a steal considering it was made at the same Hoshino Gakki factory which produces the Custom/Prestige models. The workmanship and attention given to QC is remarkable it’s not surprising that Fender Charvel & Gibson amongst others have some of their significant models made there.
I have a bunch of FujiGen instruments, mostly Greco's and lawsuit Ibanez, 75-84 was a golden period for manufacture there, cost of labor not so high that amazing craftsmanship possible for a reasonable price, top notch -- couldn't last
My “birth year” strat is a Squier E-Series from the FujiGen plant. Birth year is in quotes because tracking of those serial numbers is spotty, so all I know is that it was made sometime between ‘84 and ‘88 (just like me…). It’” feels and plays wonderfully although, it’s a little heavier than I prefer. Stock ceramic pickups sounded fine, but I swapped them out for some Alico 5s my local luthier hand winds. Much better sound, but wish I had saved the money and kept it stock.
Not quite the same but have an MIJ Fender Squier strat. Made in 82 I believe. It was my first guitar and holds a special place for me. White, rosewood, those skinny frets well worn (and probably in need of some attention). So while a number of guitars have come and gone in my collection, that one will always stay. Still plays and sounds oh so sweet.
Actually, pretty much identical. The MIJ Squiers were simply 're-badged' to Fender. The quality of those original MIJ Squiers was some of the best you could buy. Highly sought after now
Baxter must be creeping my computer - I'm having an 83 '62 MIJ Fender Strat delivered to my door today. Can't wait to get my hands on it! It's an ST62-65 Model in Olympic White finish. Will be interesting to see how it compares and how I prefer it (or not) to my 87 American Standard.
My first...and still only strat is a MIJ from about 1986 that I bought new in 87 or 88. Cherry red, maple neck. It has a locking tremelo system, with a click in weighted tremelo arm, which was like butter to use...but of course I lost years ago after my band played a house party, and the replacement is not quite the same. I was so naive when I bought it , I didn't even realize it was MIJ, or that was even a thing. I just knew all the guitarists I listened to played strats, and so I wanted a strat. It played like a dream so I bought it for around $800 CAD, which was lot of money for me at the time. I've had the frets redressed and changed out the ceramic pickups a few years ago, but otherwise still original and still played regularly.
Thanks for further educating me on MIJ guitars. I have a 91/92 Charvel ST Custom MIJ. First electric I bought and still one of the best playing guitars I have. Way more capable than I am, but that’s not saying much. 😉
Great color! Is that one an "Order Made"? Look for the heel stamp, "order made" have great specs. I have a "charcoal burst" where they actually burned the wood; flamed neck on that one. you can find occasional birds-eye necks as well. 80's Japanese Squires also are worth a look
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I want to know if today's jap fenders are any good
Love MIJ Fenders. I have Mexican, American and Japanese strats and the Japanese is my favorite.
Very cool to hear! Thank you Kell.:)
I always have great admiration for MIJ. there attention to detail and craftsmanship is exceptional. Any one can tell when someone took ownership and pride of what's been made. 🎸🎸
Right on JJ!
@@CasinoGuitars the 65 sticker stands for YEN
@@CasinoGuitars J.V Squier for the European market which I have. Come with Fullerton pick ups apart from the late 82s due to Fujigen running out. Japanese Sq5 pick ups where fitted for a few months while the Fullerton pick ups where on their way to Japan.
ST 57/62 - 65 where the same as the squier apart from the logo which says Fender. These where domestic models made for the Japanese Market. 65 means 65,000 yen which is the price.
Next up was the ST 57/62 - 85 (85,000 yen) which where the same as the 65, but had all USA hardware including pickup, electrics and hardware but not pots. These where Japanese.
Then the top spec was ST 57/62 - 115 (115,000 yen) which was the same as the 85 but had a nitro finish and cts pots.
For a very short period after this they released the SQ 72 which features a large headstock hence the 72 and fitted with Japanese sq5 pickup. I don't know a huge amount about these, but still a very good guitar.
Hop this helps.
@@CasinoGuitars i own a surf green 54 MIJ reissue strat. I have always had a theory that these were made with the generation of people that remembered the war between us and them. I think that not only your run of the mill pride but these people wanted to show they could outdo the Americans at things. And I believe they nailed it. I have had so many people try to buy mine off of me over the years.
MIJ goes above and beyond of MIA. I live in Japan and everything is made better there.
The MIJ Squiers from the 80s were incredible value for the price. The more recent MIJ Charvels and Jacksons are also great. Japan just makes great guitars!
Baxter, the blue “65” sticker on back of the headstock designates the model price tier…for that one it designates a JV ST62-65 model and a 65 yen price tier. Price tiers were -65, -85, and -115. That one is a lower tier model.
That just made me smile:) Thank you!
@@CasinoGuitars yea, the 65 was very close specks to the Squier, 85 had USA made pickups and nitro finish. 115 was the top of the line, usually elder wood, USA pickups, pots electronics and nitro finish.
65,000 yen = about $600 more or less.
The "65" denotes the price point. On this guitar it is elevated due to the finish primarily. The "40"s were the cheapest, due to the hardware. The "50" was the typical specimen, with stamped saddles and Kluson style tuners. Every level above that was generally about the finish afaik. Note that Tokai did a thin laminate rosewood board, but "Fender Japan" never did. Another point of interest is that Fender were going to use Tokai to build 'em, but backed out at the last minute and went with Fugijen, who were making most of the Greco's. It is said that the initiial publicity shots were actually of Greco's with the Decal switched out. The fact that a lot of the early MIJ's were made of Sen bears this out, because a lot of the Greco's were.
Yes, the guitar is a ST62-65, the most common model, which was 65,000 yen. There was also the ST62-85 and ST62-115 that year that were slightly more expensive with more accurate details, but the differences are very minor if you just want to play it.
@@jonnyrochester1141the electronics and pickups are sooooo much better in the higher end ones. The pickup selector in the 65s is worth about a dollar and made of plastic. You may or may not believe. Like the original plastic string trees on jap strats remember those? Horrible little things! The guitars are nice though many have very slim necks which I don't particularly like. Still great guitars to be honest.
I sure do love my 84 JV! They do a great job in Japan, you can just feel it! Great playing, as always Baxter!
Thank you for sharing Ryan and for your kind words:)
I got one too it's great 👍 🙂
They always say “set realistic goals to your guitar playing” and my goal is to play like you. But man it’s tough, it’s both solo and rhythm and improv with a touch of magic. You’re such an incredible player!
Guthrie Govan has a really accessible video about this style of playing. It’s out there on YT.
Baxter is cool and all, but that guitar playing is mediocre. At best.
@@kungstu22 link please, can't find it
@@MFDOOOOM th-cam.com/video/o4jbCDfSXS0/w-d-xo.html
@@kungstu22 thanks
Baxter, the 65 sticker is a price tag meaning 65thousand yen, then they had 85 thousand and 115 thousand yen. That was the cost of that series!
So cool you did this episode, my friend just imported 50 of 300 Japanese guitars. Fenders,and other brands ,all I have to say they are way cool.
Where on earth does he find 300 to import? All pre-owned? I need a friend like that!
Thats some friend !
Don’t own an electric guitar… BUT, a Japanese built Takamine acoustic is hard to beat! Impeccable build quality, great playability, wonderful tone, and the very best acoustic pickup,(Palathetic), and preamp,(CoolTube3). Moving to Phoenix, so sold two Takamines and bought a RainSong carbon fiber Jumbo. However, if I ever move out of the desert, and want a wooden guitar again, I would most likely buy a Tak!
Right on with a good ol Tak!
I have to agree with you Jed, hard to beat a Takamine. I bought mine around 1993/94. The shop I bought it from had 2 available. I tried the cheaper one and although it sounded ok I was not convinced. The 2nd one was twice the price but you could hear a big difference in the sound. It came with a satin finish but after so many years it started to look a little tired so the other day I decide to spruce it up. I used a light cutback car polish then a hard wax. The finish was beyond my wildest dreams...looks better now than when I first bought it.
I’ve never had a crappy Japanese built guitar. I’m sure they’re out there. Especially in the “lawsuit” era. But I’ve always had great luck with my Japanese built guitars. Love my ESP’s.
Thats it - "I’ve never had a crappy Japanese built guitar" all Japanese guitars I played were perfect. There is no other country that makes guitars as good as Japan - says a German.
I was a teen in the 80s. Back then MIJ guitars had a stigma attached to them. Because less expensive they had an image of being “cheap”, therefore considered inferior to USA made. Kind of how made in China or Indonesian produced guitars are considered today. I had a USA San Dimas factory built Rhoads in 84, but got an 86 MIJ Charvel to use daily for music school and regardless of how good I knew the Charvel was, I still considered it inferior just because it was Japanese. With time the stigma faded away and now I love MIJ instruments.
I have had an extremely crappy MIJ Jackson from the 90"s
@@markde9904I’ve had one 90’s MIJ Jackson and it was pretty nice. Not as nice as ESP. But it played well and was built pretty good.
@@danwilson9530I’ve seen some pretty crappy Chinese guitars. But all the Indonesian guitars I’ve played have been fairly nice. I have an Indonesian Schecter Explorer that’s as nice as some of my nicer ESP’s and Gibson Custom Shop stuff. Maybe I just got lucky. But I have a Korean LTD that’s pretty sweet too.
Own an SQ Squier series Strat bought new at Manny’s NYC in 1983, $150 w/hard case. Long story, but it is without a doubt the best Strat I own. Original one has a rosewood board, last year I picked up its twin with a maple board, equally amazing. In 2020 I bought two of the black paisley MIJ Strats purely for collecting, put in Fender molded cases unplayed (one day my siblings are in for a few surprises). I wouldn’t hesitate to buy more MIJ Fenders if I had the $$$, they are just that good. The true master luthier who refretted my original SQ (stainless/bone nut) told me while he doesn’t really like Strats this was the best Strat he’d ever come across in 50 years. People have poo poohed this guitar since the day I got it simply because it says “Squier” on the headstock. Once they played it they STFU, many tried to buy it off me, one guy tried to steal it, another offered me $3000 for the neck! If you have a chance to get a CIJ/MIJ Fender you won’t regret it.
I have a huge “lawsuit” ibanez collection bought when snobs turned their noses up at them! I got most for extremely cheap prices. The quality is much better than anything Fender or Gibson had to offer at the time.
I have a Fender Japan Contemporary Strat that still gets love to this day. It's an odd single humbucker with a locking trem, but it's just a fun guitar and the craftsmanship is amazing.
Japanese guitar manufacturers really seem to take guitar making seriously, which is why a lot of people will say Navigator/Edwards/ESP are outdoing Gibson and Fender and are willing to import those guitars. While I don't know what the training is to make guitars for Fender, I know ESP makes you go to luthier school for 2 years before you can build in their Japanese facility.
I think I had the same one. I saw it and I wanted it. Played and sounded like a dream. I traded it for another contemporary strat. I traded it because I wanted a sister for yet another contemporary strat I own and love.
The Japanese don’t like flaws. They just don’t allow it. Nothing will leave the factory until it’s a perfect product. In the USA and in other countries it’s considered good enough when 95% of anything leaving the factory is good.
Same with cars. I live in Europe and I used to buy a ‘new’ second hand car every two years. Always old and cheap stuff. I think I have had 10 or 11 Japanese cars and an equal number of European cars over the years. I never had problems with any of the Japanese cars. The European cars however…
@@mariodriessen9740 I can only agree, The Japaneses take pride in what they make, here in the UK no one cares unless you pay
for a luthier built guitar.
I have rejected a lot of sub standard guitars from the USA, but never had a bad sample from Japan.
As for cars, although the early Japanese cars rusted, they started in cold damp mornings and rarely broke down.
UK cars also rusted, but you were lucky if they started, with no confidence that they would get you to work.
Not to forget FGN :)
Got a Chandlerised MIJ ‘62 Strat from 90s and a recent MIJ special run L/H Fiesta Red rosewood board.
Both terrific guitars.. as good as anything out there, top quality build.
Got a 1987 mij 72 reissue in antique white or buttercream as it’s known these days been modified to death and back and needs some fretwork. But I love it the most
i have an '86! dream to play, sounds phenomenal
That is super to hear!
one of the best strats i have ever played was a japanese squier from the 80s. might not have had the greatest electronics in there, but the neck was so amazing. one of these guitars that you dont stop playing once you pick it up
Great to heart that!
I also had one. My first electric guitar ever. I got it, because it looked like Clapton’s Blackie. God, I wish I had it back…… sold it for some Air Jordons.
Huge mistake, but that’s youth 🤨
@@chadwicks_guitar if you still got the jordans you can maybe sell them for the price of two japanese squiers ;)
@@santrixhimself3679
I wish my friend, but I actually played outdoor basketball in them and they were fried within a year. I guess you can say I gave them the“heavy relic” treatment. 😬
Agree. I have a black Japanese squier from the early 80s. Best neck and playing fender I have owner including custom shop. Put in a set of suhr pickups as I agree the pickups weren't the best and it has stayed my No1 guitar.
I've got an '83 Tokai Goldstar (60's style Strat), and without doubt it's the best Strat I've ever played. The only issue with 70's and 80's era MIJ guitars is that they were so unloved for so long, that the survivorship and documentation is poor. It's hard to know what you're getting into, but worth it if you do the homework (or buy from a trusted source).
My first guitar that i learned on was a Tokai, it was the best sounding one in the store that i could afford.
I wish i still had it, but traded it in for a USA Strat that had multiple issues, big mistake.
Love the Tokais as well, I have a 83 Goldstar Sound with a 3 tone burst Rosewood board, maple neck, and an 80 Springy Sound Strat that is just amazing.
I played both of them against a 62 CS reissue, tonally, hardly nothing in it, apart from the CS costing like 6x more than the Tokais.
The MIJ Strat were awesome, personally speaking, I think MIJ Guitars are some of the best around no doubt
🤣 really?
Modern Japanese fenders are unbeatable, Japanese craftsmanship when given the resources is second to none
65 sticker designates 65000 yen. The 85 is a step up with nitro , the 115 was highest end. Thee 65 did have USA pickups tho. I’ve got a couple, they are great!! Nice video!
Sold my American deluxe Strat in 3 tone sunburst and have been having sellers remorse. Just found a Made in Japan 96 Strat in same exact color for $400 on marketplace! I’m picking it up this weekend!
I recently acquired an 86 E series strat. Sounds incredible and plays like butter!
Japanese build quality is always stand out. Not lucky enough to have one of those Fender models, but do have a Japanese built Gretsch Country gentleman that is amazing.
My first guitar was a Fernandes early 90s MIJ strat copy. Got it brand new for next to nothing due to a music store going out of business. I still have it and it's just a killer guitar.
Richard Lloyd (slickest name drop ever).
I just found one of my old touring shirts of his last night as well..what a fantastic human and monster player he is!
I have had em all folks!!! Eric Clapton custom shop strats, American strats, Deluxe strats, standard strats, Mexican strats, you name it! I just picked up a few months ago a Japan made strat from 2013. It is the dragon finish that was made with another model that was the Geisha Girls version. There is NO comparison between these guitars and the American models. These guitars are absolutely exquisite! It is a 62 reissue and I can't stress enough the attention to fit and finish from the frets to intonation every where all the way up the neck. You can't slide a cigarette paper in between the neck and the joint to the body! And the sound is out of this world! This strat will never leave me!!
My first ever electric was a used MIJ Strat with the System 1 trem. Great guitars, still play mine almost every day
Not bad at all for a 1st electric!
Mine too. A mid-80's Standard Strat in Lake Placid Blue with Rosewood 'Board. I thought it was a Contemorary model for years but I was educated a few years back. Anyway, sold and regretted selling. Replaced with a (definite) Contemporary Strat with System 2 Trem. Quality guitar. Will never be sold
That system 1 trem by Schaller is a thing of beauty. Those 84-87 MIJ strats are only surpassed by the step up to custom shop
I have an 84 one of these (Ser E+6) that I bought at Norms around 1988. Paid $300 for it. Everyone that has ever picked it up has offered to buy it.
My Son has a MIJ '66 RI Jazzmaster w/Block Inlays. It has been a fantastic instrument.
I recently purchased from the Tokai Japan Custom Shop a '54 RI Goldtop. The craftsmanship and materials on this Tokai easily rival the offerings from Gibson USA. Originally I had looked at a Gibson R4 and chose the Tokai partially because it is offered with Jumbo Sankyo Frets.
I bought an MIJ 50’s Telecaster a long time ago. No specific year noted just called the 50s Telecaster. Deep v maple neck and maple fingerboard. Bridge pickup went bad and was replaced. It got dropped and has a small chunk out of the body on the lower rear edge. Ended up replacing the pickups completely. The neck takes a bit of getting used to but it still plays a dream.
The "65" sticker behind the neck indicates its original price being 65,000 yen, which would be equivalent to $480 in the 2022 exchange rate (without taking into account the price changes of goods in 40 years).
I have a fender stratocaster from '89-90 "I" serial number. I bought it new in 1990. Best neck i've ever played. Small frets, but a bit bigger neck than the American or Mexican guitars i've owned. I've owned many american guitars but I still love that old japan guitar the most! Currently trying to find that neck on ebay!
Fender guitars made in Japan are made exceptionally well. A friend of mine has a 90’s Japanese Strat and it plays great.
I have a ‘52 Tele JV Export from ‘82 and ‘62 Strat ST62-70 from ‘89. Both are great MIJ instruments - I’ve had the chance to sell, but have held on to them because they are extremely playable. I’ve never felt the need to buy American-made Fender guitars because these get the job done when plugged into a good Fender amp.
I have had and do have several MIJ telecasters and starts. They are incredibly well made guitars.
My 50s JV Modified Tele is perfect. I wouldn't change a thing about it. They make some extraordinary instruments there in Japan, for sure.
I purchased a used MIJ left-handed '62 Telecaster for my young son back in the early 2000's. It was an amazing guitar, my only regret was that it wasn't right handed. I would have kept it when he decided to quit playing.
Not from the same factory as the Fenders but my Japanese made Gretschs are outstanding. Just impeccable craftsmanship
Fender Japan is the only fender that I’d buy 👍🏾
My first guitar was a used lefty MIJ 1987 E-series 62 reissue cream colored strat that I bought in 1999 for around $400. It had some cosmetic issues and the electronics were a bit shoddy, but I replaced the entire pickguard assembly and I still have that guitar.
I saved as a teenager to buy a brand new Fender Stratocaster, because Blackmore played them. It was a 1979 made in America Strat, and it was the biggest piece of crap I've ever owned. Neck pocket was routed way too big, fretwork was sub-par, and it weighed as much as a refrigerator. Fast forward 35 years, purchased a used 2011 ESP Standard Series Made in Japan Eclipse. The guitar is PERFECT. Having worked for over 25 years in a Toyota plant, l saw first-hand the Japanese work ethic. A fanatical work ethic. I have purchased 2 more ESP E-ll's as they're called now, both PERFECT. Nothing but Japanese built guitars for me from now on.
For a guitar that's close to 40 years old, that thing looks brand new. Love that color too!
A few days back I found an MIJ fender telecaster from 1989-1990 with a 50's body & 70's neck. Amazing instrument in near mint condition for under 1k. I live in Tokyo and guitars are my life. Japan has a lot to offer in that realm. The only thing I hate is their guitar store tradition of keeping every guitar strung with 9's & tuned down to flap while on the wall. Then you ask to try it and they tune it up to standard. BACKBOW EXTREME! A lot of guitars sold here on the used market have neck warp due to that absurd practice being common among players as well. If only fender told them that there is a truss rod..
I hung on to my MIJ Fender Strat that I bought in 1987. It spends all it's time in a case due to the small-ish frets (Ive come to love jumbo frets) but I drag it out every once in a while.
I own a LOT of MADE IN JAPAN Fender's and they are GREAT! WooF!
The woof had me:)
I have a Fernandez that I bought new from Alex’s 48st in 85. It replaced my real 62 that I destroyed with a Floyd Rose. It has the thin C neck and is 2 tone tobacco burst. I heard it was possibly made in MIJ factory? Great guitar,still playing it. Thanks for another great video!
Great guitar there! And thank you:)
I have a MIJ Squire that is an absolute GEM. Swapped the pickups. That's it. The rest of the guitar is stock. Plays like butter, great intonation, just a beautiful piece of gear.
I had a pink paisley Strat from the mid 80s. I sold it last year for £3000!!!
Nuts and I lov e that!
@@CasinoGuitars yeah, it was mint condition and a so became too nice to take out. ATB guitars sold it for me. I never collected the money, it went halfway to buying a blonde 65 Jaguar they had.
Guitar isn't my primary instrument, but i do love everything about it. It's why i come here every day to learn more. Thank you for what you do for us.
me: i have one electric guitar- a '21 MIJ Jazzmaster Noir. after seeing it, it was love at first sight. i had considered the AM Pro II, and was ready to move on it, as kind of a 'well, i need a guitar for projects, but since i can't find anything that really jumps out at me functionally and aesthetically, i might as well...' and then that magic moment with a broker in Tokyo. within a week, my new guitar arrived, and i couldn't have been more thrilled. for me, this is a familial pass-down instrument, and i hope my descendants enjoy it as much as i do. It's a true love story!
I purchased and still have a MIJ Telecaster "Esquire" from the early 1980's. I love it. It plays great and still sounds awesome.
Again. So cool to see a guitar shop owner who can really play.
I have a 2020 MIJ domestic mkt strat. It’s a keeper. Was lucky enough to find a shop in Seattle that had them in stock so I could play away my doubts first. Very much a 50s strat but with modern touches. Like, a big fat neck, check. But they make these Kluson-looking (gorgeous) locking tuners with a very simple, elegant mechanism. Anyway, def should be on any strat cat’s radar.
Recently got a white Aerodyne strat and it’s such a classic feeling yet modern look
I have a couple JV Strats, a white ‘62 series from 1982 and a fiesta red ‘57 series from 1983. Both are great players. Both light too at just over 7 lbs.
There were three tiers to the JV Strats: ST-65, ST-85 and ST-115. That’s what the little “65” sticker is about. The 65s were the standard model and featured custom color poly finishes. The 85s had a nitro finish and a steel rather than zinc alloy vibrato block. The 115s had upgraded hardware and (typically) sunburst finishes.
Both of my JVs are 65s (with steel vibrato block upgrades). I also put a pickguard loaded with René Martinez MojoTone lipstick pickups and snazzy pots & switches on the red ‘83.
I'm on a tight budget and don't own any AM Fenders, but three MiM Player Strats that are fantastic for the money. Couple of years ago got lucky and bought a 2011 LN MIJ Fender Pawn Shop '51 and it is amazing. The difference is fit and finish and the neck is the nicest of any of my 24 guitars. They really spent the time rolling the edges and finishing the frets, it feels and plays fantastic! The second you pick it up you know it is a special guitar.
Wish you would do a segment on your time with Richard Lloyd.
I am a proud owner of 6 mid 80’s, early ‘90’s MIJ Fender & Squiers + 3 Ibanez models made in 80’s. I love MIJ guitars.
I swear by Japanese made guitars, they really are the best. My #1 that's gonna be with me forever is an ESP Snapper I picked up a few years ago on a trip out there and recently got a new Fender aerodyne tele and I'm loving it. Would love to get my hands on one of these 80's guitars too, whether it's a Fender, Tokai, Greco etc
Most MIJ Strats from the 80's and 90's I've run across have been Ships of Theseus. They've had so many parts changed, refretted and shaved necks, repairs and so forth they bear little resemblance to what left the factory.
@ Frank Carr. Maybe in the USA, i'm in the U.K & have a 84 JV strat 2 tone 57 re-issue completely original including original sales slip & allen key in plastic bag for the saddles..
that blue sticker on the back of the headstock is the price, not the year. that sticker means it was sold in japan originally. That model is a B grade (there were A,B and C grades), which were relabelled squire and sold in the US. The model number for that guitar is st62-65. The A grades have a blue sticker that says 115 on the headstock. Even though it doesn't say squire on the headstock, that's one of the squires everyone raves about. If you take that sticker off the headstock then you'll have to pull the neck off to identify it by the B stamped in the neck cavity.
Bought my lefty MiJ strat around ‘95. Late 80’s serial number. Lovely guitar, as a lefty don’t have much to compare it to. At time of purchase was difficult to find any LH guitars so was grateful to purchase.
Absolutely worth it. Too many folks think their old American one just can’t be beat.
Yeah, American automakers thought the same thing for years and years, and their arrogance led to their downfall.
This is just the thing!! I used to lust after American made instruments but these days I’d never buy an American car … so why do I need an American made guitar or amp?
Ya there used to be a Ton of loud&proud MIJ haters back in the day. Eventually they just kinda disappeared. The instruments being fantastic probably helped some :)
Hello, look, I have had two Fender Stratocaste 60's reissue from the 90's, one L series and the other I don't remember. They are perfectly assembled, but you can only hear the strings and not the body. It is because the quality and drying of the wood is not optimal, and they also paint it with acrylic paint, which is very hard!, and prevents the wood from moving. Both, no matter how beautiful they were, I sold them. Now I use Reissues Made in Mexico and Made in USA. Both extraordinary.
Greetings
I have had one from the year 1987. I bought it new from a shop in Helsinki way back then and never sold it. Serial number search says:
Labeled:
Made in Japan
Year:1984-1987
Manufacturer:
Fujigen, Japan
It has been my working horse since -87. Cream white strat ( with replaced pickups I have to add )
I’ve got an 87 Japanese strat. It’s the candy apple red 62 or 63 reissue. One of the best feeling guitars I’ve ever laid my hands on. I just recently dropped a set of CS 69 pups in it…and man that thing sings. She can hang with the best of them
The Japanese reissue necks from the 80’s and early 90’s feel more like vintage Strat necks even more than the custom shop stuff made to this day.
I was in Japan last October and went to Ochanomizu (Guitar Street) and found a Ritchie Kotzen signature Strat and had to get it. It was less than $1000 including a Fender hard case but I ended up flying home without it and getting it mailed to me. Alas, $1300, including shipping. Still, it's a stunning guitar with translucent blonde finish, maple neck and DiMarzio pickups (my least favorite part), 3-ply pearloid pickguard and gold hardware.
My MIM sounds vintage also but it's 27 years old. Every MIJ I've seen in person is like taking a squire and putting a Floyd Rose on it.
They knew what they were doing in Japan great quality control even back then..Look at the classic Aria guitars,basses and Acoustics doing the 80s...I have some of those and they are amazing..Even those Japanese Epiphone Elites are really good too..want one but they are so rare and expensive...now I'll have to put those Japanese Fenders and squiers on my list..Great video and playing Baxter!!
Thats a killer tone
I own a early 2000s Korean Stratocaster , light swamp ash body ,amazing Birdseye maple neck with very interesting neck profile,Seymour Duncan pickups,one off fender logo on the headstock.it’s my favorite guitar,definitely my prettiest ,it plays on par with my 🇺🇸 fender deluxe ,better than my hwy 1.I just never knew,I’ll never underestimate Asian built fenders again 🌎❤️🎸I think it’s the last design out of the Cort factory ,so nice!…where are the American Birdseye maple neck s,freaking beautiful 😍
I have several of the less expensive E series from that 83 to 86 Era(2 Tele, 2 strat). Replaced the ceramic pickups with various Fender vintage series. Love these and doubt I'd trade for any USA standard regardless of year. Not sure if it is the wood or the makers mojo.... Very special instruments.
I have several MIJ Strats. One is a G series from 88. It's in buttercream, completely stock. It is a wonderful guitar. I have a fairly rare one from 90-91. It has a wide thin maple neck, with EMG active pups. Two single coils and a HB that can split and has a 10 DB boost when in HB mode. It also game stock with a Kahler Floyd Rose. It's in Seafoam green. I've never seen another one like it.
I have a '94 MIJ Malmsteen model, scalloped fingerboard and a 50's smaller headstock. The thing absolutely rips, best Strat I've ever picked up. Looking at one of the domestic model 60's Traditionals currently. Love a MIJ!
I wanted to get an MIJ Squier a few years ago but they're going real high in the states. Found out that MIJ fenders were made in the same factories and going for real steals from Japan. I got my '93-'94 ST62-70 for $534 shipped in 2020. Man I tell ya I love this guitar so much. Gotoh tuners. I did swap out all the electronics tho. '57-'62 USA Fender pickups and mad hatter wiring. SUCH A MAGNIFICENT PLAYER.
I'm on a hunt on this and i found one. It has a natural crack, relics all over but i bought it!
I lived in Japan for 20 years ending in 2008.. I know all about Fender Japan guitars. They come in different price levels. The cheaper ones are made of basswood and have Japanese basic electronics.. The very best ones the extrads are made with really good wood and have American electronics. Those are rare as hens teeth and if you find one buy it those are about the best strats ever made.
But man, how to recognize them??
@@sfu421 They will say "EXTRAD" on the back of the headstock. You won't find one. They usually have the model number in the neck pocket. The '80s are great but so are the high end models made today. here's a high end one made in the late '90s. I was living in Tokyo at the time and had a great after-work band called the "Tokyo AllStars." I had half a dozen cool suits with matching FJ Strats. Kanda Shokai was the sales section and Yamano Gaki is a large music chain. Japan makes Lexus, USA makes Ford and Mexico makes cocaine. Should sum up the quality conversation.
I've owned and still own about every make of Strat and Tele and I gotta say the Richie Kotzen MIJ Telecaster is hands down the greatest sounding guitar I've ever owned and I've owned a lot. I had a MIJ carvel from the 80s and I wish I had never broke and sold the remains of that. Rock n Roll can be hazardous. What can I say? Ive learned to tone it down
We bought 2 Japan made fender strats from South Shore Music, near Boston in 1989, one red, one white! still have them in family seen very little wear, use. I believe we paid $348.99 ea!
I would love to have something like that, especially being an 83' baby!
They are out there...but for sure getting more and more expensive, yikes!
Fender still sells a full range of brand new made in Japan Stratocasters, Telecasters, Jazzmasters, Bass etc in other countries. If you wandered into a music store in Australia or NewZealand you'd find them. They are priced a bit less than the MIM models., Also with the older made in Japan Fenders, I have heard from numerous sources that those that have "crafted in Japan" on the base of the neck as opposed to "made in Japan" are supposed to be of a higher quality. Wether this is true or not IDK but they do pull a premium price in the used market.
Purchased a Crafted in Japan 52 Reissue Tele and it is amazing! I have had everyone from Luthiers to other players say it is the Best Tele they have seen & played....True believer and holding onto this.........
I bought a MIJ tele custom in 1985.. still have it. Its amazing.
Last year I bought a MIJ Ibanez RG550DX reissued as one of the Genesis collection models, after paying £925 which I thought was expensive I now realise it was a steal considering it was made at the same Hoshino Gakki factory which produces the Custom/Prestige models. The workmanship and attention given to QC is remarkable it’s not surprising that Fender Charvel & Gibson amongst others have some of their significant models made there.
I have a bunch of FujiGen instruments, mostly Greco's and lawsuit Ibanez, 75-84 was a golden period for manufacture there, cost of labor not so high that amazing craftsmanship possible for a reasonable price, top notch -- couldn't last
My “birth year” strat is a Squier E-Series from the FujiGen plant. Birth year is in quotes because tracking of those serial numbers is spotty, so all I know is that it was made sometime between ‘84 and ‘88 (just like me…). It’” feels and plays wonderfully although, it’s a little heavier than I prefer. Stock ceramic pickups sounded fine, but I swapped them out for some Alico 5s my local luthier hand winds. Much better sound, but wish I had saved the money and kept it stock.
I have a MIJ from 86. Superb tone
Not quite the same but have an MIJ Fender Squier strat. Made in 82 I believe. It was my first guitar and holds a special place for me. White, rosewood, those skinny frets well worn (and probably in need of some attention). So while a number of guitars have come and gone in my collection, that one will always stay. Still plays and sounds oh so sweet.
That's a great piece and congrats on having her!
Actually, pretty much identical. The MIJ Squiers were simply 're-badged' to Fender. The quality of those original MIJ Squiers was some of the best you could buy. Highly sought after now
Baxter must be creeping my computer - I'm having an 83 '62 MIJ Fender Strat delivered to my door today. Can't wait to get my hands on it! It's an ST62-65 Model in Olympic White finish. Will be interesting to see how it compares and how I prefer it (or not) to my 87 American Standard.
I have a MIJ E-series P-Bass. Totally worth the hype.
Great video. I have an 87 MIJ squier telecaster. It’s the best guitar I have ever played. I want a MIJ 62 strat. One day. 😎😎
I have an 83 Ibanez AR30 made in Japan. Awesome guitar!!
Fantastic piece!
My first...and still only strat is a MIJ from about 1986 that I bought new in 87 or 88. Cherry red, maple neck. It has a locking tremelo system, with a click in weighted tremelo arm, which was like butter to use...but of course I lost years ago after my band played a house party, and the replacement is not quite the same. I was so naive when I bought it , I didn't even realize it was MIJ, or that was even a thing. I just knew all the guitarists I listened to played strats, and so I wanted a strat. It played like a dream so I bought it for around $800 CAD, which was lot of money for me at the time. I've had the frets redressed and changed out the ceramic pickups a few years ago, but otherwise still original and still played regularly.
I’ve loved my “E code” Strat since 1989
Nice!
Thanks for further educating me on MIJ guitars. I have a 91/92 Charvel ST Custom MIJ. First electric I bought and still one of the best playing guitars I have. Way more capable than I am, but that’s not saying much. 😉
I have a MIJ Strat and it is one of my favorite guitars.
Have a '57 MIJ Re-issue with Lace Sensor P/ups ( early 90's .. bought new ) .. nice !
Great color! Is that one an "Order Made"? Look for the heel stamp, "order made" have great specs. I have a "charcoal burst" where they actually burned the wood; flamed neck on that one. you can find occasional birds-eye necks as well. 80's Japanese Squires also are worth a look
I own 2 MIJ Strats one is a Fender the other is a Squier/Fender both the best guitars ive ever played hands down
My first Strat was Japanese made I find it easier to play than my USA special Strat