Go to
www.fenderjapan.co.jp/ (No English text, unless you run it through the Google or other translator). Squier of course makes Fender brand instruments at all price points, the most notable I can think of offhand being the SRV Strat.
The story goes that Fender bought the Japanese concern that was making their nightmare 'lawsuit' guitars to eliminate this problem, and purchase some expertise in the process, as these were much better axes than the fledgling Shultz-era Fender was building as it was just getting on its feet. In the first year or so following the Schultz group's buyout from CBS, it success was by no means guaranteed.
I always remember the Squier Strat, Tele, PBass, and JBass of the late 80s that retailed for about $300. These were the true first step that put Fender back in its own vintage reissue business, and were AMAZING guitars at that price point.
Of course these days, Squier-branded goods come from even China as the article states, but the Japanese Squires over the years have been terrific values.
Thanks, Dave
J o e y
