What's the difference between a *MADE* In Japan, and a *CRAFTED* In Japan Fender guitar?

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.

If you found this guide worthwhile, please take a second to click the "YES" button at the bottom of this page.  Thank you.

SMILE