Fernandes Co. Ltd. was founded in Tokyo in 1969 under the name Saito Musical Instruments, initially producing classical and flamenco guitars before pivoting to electric guitars in the early 1970s. The company grew into one of Japan's largest guitar manufacturers, building a reputation for high-quality Fender-style replicas — particularly the FST (Stratocaster-style) and FTE (Telecaster-style) series. Fernandes also operated a second guitar brand called Burny, dedicated to Gibson-style instruments, which developed its own cult following among players seeking quality alternatives to vintage American originals.

The company's most distinctive technical achievement is the Fernandes Sustainer system, a specially designed electromagnetic neck pickup and driver circuit that vibrates guitar strings indefinitely without requiring high stage volume or feedback. Installed across models such as the Ravelle, the Monterey, and the compact self-amplified ZO-3, the Sustainer became a defining Fernandes trademark sought by players wanting expressive control over sustain and harmonics. The ZO-3 — a miniature electric guitar with a built-in speaker amplifier — earned its own status as a playful cult classic. Fernandes expanded its reach by opening Fernandes USA in Los Angeles in 1992, introducing American players to the brand's catalog.

Fernandes guitars have appeared across diverse genres in the hands of well-known musicians. Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day has been closely associated with a Fernandes Revival RST-80 Stratocaster nicknamed "Blue," while Kirk Hammett of Metallica used a Fernandes FST-135 during the band's early years. Robert Fripp of King Crimson also played custom Fernandes instruments, including a Goldtop Custom-style model.

Fernandes has 156 products cataloged on Equipboard, including Solid Body Electric Guitars, Electric Basses, and Extended Range Guitars. Their gear is featured by 129 artists, with the strongest followings in Rock, Metal, and Pop. Notable users include hide, Ken, and Kenny Hickey.