Here's another great Japan-market Strat from the fine
craftsmen at Fender Japan, an alder '62 RI Stratocaster in gorgeous Sunburst.
By now it's no news to anybody that the reissues of classic '50s and '60s Fender
guitars made for a time by Fender Japan for export to the United States and
Europe were exceptional guitars. They nailed the vibe of the vintage originals
and the build quality was of a consistency from one guitar to the next that
American Fenders haven't been able to match since Leo ran the shop.
But people who really know these guitars know that the best guitars made by
Fender Japan seldom leave the country. They're made for the Japanese market and
they're made with a dedication to quality that rivals the best of the US Fender
Custom Shop products.
This '62 RI Stratocaster from the early '90s displays all the
customary care lavished on Fender Japan guitars of that period by the Fujigen
factory. Its Sunburst finish is perfect, as is the dark rosewood slab fretboard.
Atop one of those meaty C-profile necks that have made CIJ Fenders legendary.
It's very lightweight and the USA Custom Shop 69 pickups (with cloth Leads)
do a great job of providing classic Strat tone.
