hi everyone.

i bought this strat in i think 2006 for £320, just wanting some opinions on whether or not it's fake. when i look up the serial number it says it should be crafted in japan and not made in japan, and this makes me suspicious. also the serial number looks like is on a transparent sticker in an unconventional place.

here are some pictures, would really appreciate feedback. (pun absolutely intended)










yea the guitar is in dire need of tlc, im going to sort it out tomorrow.

Edzilla...all appears to be correct. The serial number is in the correct place for a MIJ model. Also the guitar dater web sites are not always right!

If you really want to know the specs, etc, send your serial number to:

consumerrelations@fender.com

They will be able to tell you exactly when it was made, your R serial number would indicate it was made in 2004-2006 time frame for manufacture.

HTH

T2

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What time is it? It's Fender Time.

Is it normal for Japanese made guitars to not say "Fender" on the bridge saddles?

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Bill

Yes. The domestic MIJ Models had the "Fender" stamped saddles. The exports did not.

T2

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What time is it? It's Fender Time.

Odd. Any idea why they did that?

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Bill

As I understand it, this was done to meet a certain price point, along with the finish and electronics.

As my newly aquired Strat shows, the Japanese can build a guitar on par with anything the Americans make, but it all boils down to pricing and competition. Fender does not want to compete with itself and that would be stupid on thier part as a business, so they spec them out to ensure the profit margins stay where they need them to be to stay in business.

FWIW

T2

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What time is it? It's Fender Time.

Looks perfectly legitimate and might I add a very nice guitar. The serial number is indeed supposed to be located where it is, toward the base of the neck.

I would like to know how those saddles have come to be so oxidized since 2006, though.

I can understand using cheaper electronics and finish, but it still says "Fender Stratocaster" on the headstock. Don't see how nameless bridge saddles make much difference in the bottom line. Oh well. Just another one of life's little mysteries, I guess.

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Bill

Thanks for confirming this for me.

The saddles are rusty as hell cos this was my main gigging guitar for a few years and my hands get damn sweaty! Disgusting I know but at least it looks kind of cool