What the two phrases mean
“Made in Japan” was used from the launch of Fender Japan in 1982 until around 1997. “Crafted in Japan” followed, running until roughly 2008, after which the wording reverted.
The change tracked a shift in who was actually assembling the instruments. The distinction was not marketing dressing — it accompanied a genuine change in the production arrangement, which is why the serial letters restarted at the same time.
| Made in Japan | Crafted in Japan | |
|---|---|---|
| Period | 1982–1997, and again from around 2008 | Around 1997–2008 |
| Serial letters | A through V, one pass | A through T, a second pass |
| Example prefix A | 1985–1986 | 1997–1998 |
| Example prefix E | 1984–1987 | 2001–2002 |
Where to look
On the headstock, usually on the back or near the serial itself, in small text. It is easy to miss and easy to lose under a worn decal or a refinish.
If the wording is genuinely illegible, the serial alone cannot settle the decade. The neck heel date, the pot codes and the hardware specification will.
Why it matters for value
The two eras trade differently. The earlier Made in Japan instruments — especially the JV and SQ series from 1982 to 1984 — command a clear premium, and a decade error moves an instrument across that line.
It is also a common source of honest mistakes in listings. A seller reading A123456 against a Made in Japan table will describe a 1997 instrument as a 1985 one without any intent to mislead.
When you are buying
Common questions
- What is the difference between Crafted in Japan and Made in Japan?
- They mark different periods of Fender's Japanese production. Made in Japan ran from 1982 to around 1997; Crafted in Japan from around 1997 to 2008. The serial letters restart between the two, so the same letter means different decades in each.
- Which is better, Crafted in Japan or Made in Japan?
- Earlier Made in Japan instruments, particularly the 1982–1984 JV and SQ series, generally trade at a premium. Both eras produced well-built instruments, and condition and specification matter more than the wording.
Last reviewed 29 July 2026. Spotted something wrong? Report a correction.