There are several theories about why some Japanese Fenders have MIJ and others CIJ. Mid–1997 the CIJ logo was the only one used on Fender guitars coming out of Japan (with exception the Squire series).
#FENDER JAPAN SERIAL NUMBERS JD SERIAL NUMBERS#
This means that the the serial numbers starting in 1994 ran consecutively on both the MIJ and the CIJ models while the MIJ logo was being phased out. Oddly enough, most of the MIJ Fenders were Reissues too, both Strats and Teles, and then later even Signature models.Īmong the Fender Japanese guitars, there were two different logos used: Crafted in Japan and Made in Japan, and both were being made at the same time from 1994 till 1997. When the Corona plant was started up, only the Vintage Reissue Stratocaster models were first produced (between late 1985 through 1986). It has been estimated that 80% of the guitars sold during this time were made in Japan. Thus USA guitar production ceased between late 1984 till October of 1985 until the new factory was built in Corona, California. Bad news though, the sale did not include production facilities in Fullerton, California. This investment group formally became the Fender Musical Instruments Corporation or FMIC.
Here is what happened: In 1984 CBS decided to sell Fender and finally, an investment group led by William (Bill) Schultz bought it in the month of March for twelve and a half million dollars. At that time, Fender USA was still trying to get back up on its feet after the CBS buyout, as USA quality under CBS ownership let their standards really slip. In fact, the new Fender USA management guys "almost cried" when they traveled to Japan and saw the quality.
The Japanese are, as many of you know, masters at copying-as these guitars testify. The MIJ (Made in Japan) and CIJ (Crafted in Japan) guitars are very high quality.