Fender Limited Edition Instruments

January 18, 1996 -- 1996 marks fifty years of tone, tradition and innovation in the design and manufacture of musical instruments for Fender. In commemoration of this milestone, the company is introducing special edition electric guitar and bass models at the NAMM Show in Anaheim, including the American Standard 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Stratocaster®, Telecaster®, Precision Bass® and Jazz Bass®.

Each of these commemorative instruments combines the superior tone of an Alder body with the beauty of a highly figured maple veneer top and back in Antique Sunburst finish. The 50th Anniversary Stratocaster (available in right and left-handed versions), Precision Bass and Jazz Bass feature maple necks with rosewood fingerboards while the Anniversary Telecaster is offered with a solid maple neck. A pao ferro fingerboard maple neck combination highlights the 50th Anniversary Jazz Bass V string model.

Exclusive features such as gold-plated American Standard hardware, vintage pickups and electronics, and white plastic pickguard with vintage style knobs preserve the classic look and feel of the world's most copied guitars and basses. Each instrument, presented in a black tolex vintage case with orange plush interior and vintage Fender nameplate is distinguished by a specially engraved neck mounting plate with Fender 50th Anniversary logo and limited edition serial numbering.

"We wanted to begin our Fiftieth Anniversary celebration by paying tribute to the four instruments that are the cornerstone of Fender's musical heritage and historical impact." says Mike Lewis, marketing manager, electric guitars. "The Limited Edition models combine superior tone and playability with the inherent value of a true collectors item."

For more information, visit their web site at www.fender.com.