CUS wrote:
I'm sure there's not - it's just, that's a
Crafted In Japan model, not a
Made In Japan model. Which I've read before (and just now in Wikipedia, surprisingly usefully) is inferior, and not a 'true' Jazzmaster. And if I'm gonna be paying that much money, well. I'm sure someone else would find it lavverly though, but I'm after a specific instrument
ive read what the Wiki says, pretty much BS from my point of view, and I have no vested interested in the sale other than helping a mate out. I dont care if he sells it or not.
The pickups are not stratocaster pickups, thats a definite as I saw them when he switched the scratchplate over.
heres a guide I found, as I am aware that there are different "made" and "crafted" labels.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If your interest in Fender Japan guitars has led you to ask that question... hopefully this guide will help.
And it's just a matter of time till you have your answer.
The bottom line is: MADE in Japan = older... CRAFTED in Japan = newer. It's that simple. I'll explain with a short bit of history. Please: Do your own research (readily available on the web), to verify:
Without bogging you down in every tiny detail...
Fender began making guitars in Japan in 1982. At that time, ALL Fenders were marked *MADE* In Japan (with a few unmarked exceptions, which I may post another guide detailing). Up till 1997, that's the way ALL Fenders manufactured in Japan were marked: MADE In Japan.
At some point a decision was made by Fender, for whatever their reason(s), to change this to CRAFTED In Japan. And, in 1997 Fender began using the Crafted In Japan marking. During that year - it is my understanding - guitars were marked both "Made" and "Crafted" In Japan. In 1998 and since, all Fenders manufactured in Japan have been marked "Crafted" In Japan.
So, it's just a matter of time. No magical formula to decipher or understand. No secrets to remember.
A quick visit to fender.com - and a tiny bit of curiosity - will verify. Go there and work your way to the Japan Serial Numbers page. You'll notice the first batch of numbers are "Made" In Japan numbers, while the second batch (at the bottom of the page) are "Crafted" In Japan numbers. Take a good look at *the dating*... you'll see for yourself:
Made In Japan = older... Crafted In Japan = newer
It's just a matter of time. It's that simple.