Fender Jazzmaster 1965 Candy Apple Red
Fender Jazzmaster 1965 Candy Apple Red
Make and Model: Fender Jazzmaster in factory original custom color Candy Apple Red Metallic.
Year: 1965. Serial prefix "L", neck heel ink stamp "4MAY65B" where 4 = Jazzmaster model, MAY = May, 65 = 1965, and B = standard nut width 1 5/8".
Measurements: 8.5 lbs / 3.95 kg overall weight. The neck profile measures 0.84” at the first fret and 1.00” at the 12th. The neck pickup measure 8.2k ohms and the bridge pickup measures 7.3k ohms.
Originality: 100% except the strings. The foam supporting the pickups was hardened so I installed new foam and kept the originals. I'm using a .5 degree taper full neck pocket neck shim but have retained the original shims if you prefer to use them instead.
Playability: Excellent! This is a fantastic playing example with nice frets, straight neck, and properly cleaned and functioning electronics
Condition: Very good with checking and oxidation. There is a pickguard crack next to the rhythm circuit tone pot wheel. it does not affect its function. The left side case latch is inoperable.
Included: Original no logo hardshell case and bridge cover.
Story: A young man in Ohio was given the job of cleaning out a house after its previous owner passed. He was told that he could keep anything he found as part of his compensation for the job. He described the house as a mess and had no expectations for finding anything of value. He came across a black rectangular case with no writing or branding on the outside. He was not a guitarist; he had never encountered the strange latches requiring the user to *slide* the button sideways, not push. The keyholes in the center made him think he had to bust open a latch to get inside. So he did.
The frets on the guitar he found inside were nearly black with tarnish. The pickguard was shrunken and cracked near the rhythm circuit. The finish had fine lines of checking throughout. But this wasn't just a Jazzmaster - It's pre-CBS example in custom color Candy Apple Red Metallic! The young man cashed in his chips and I began the proces of cleaning and set up. I was thrilled to find it completely original throughout. The frets polished out like new. The contacts in the electronics cleaned up nicely and the pickups sound great. It's a testament to Leo Fender's incredible mind for designing a fine instrument which also stands the test of time with only a little cleaning and set up.