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Average Price: $720

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$1001+

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Description

Step back into the golden era of guitar craftsmanship with the Squier 1986 Squier Telecaster (Japan). This solid body electric guitar is a testament to the exceptional build quality and attention to detail that defined Japanese-made instruments in the 1980s. Known for its reliability and classic sound, this Telecaster is perfect for players who appreciate both vintage aesthetics and modern functionality.

Crafted with a basswood body, the Squier 1986 Telecaster offers a lightweight feel without sacrificing tone. The bolt-on maple neck provides a comfortable grip, allowing for smooth playability across its rosewood fingerboard. The guitar is equipped with dual single-coil pickups, delivering the iconic Tele twang and versatile sound that suits a wide range of musical styles, from country to rock.

What sets this model apart is its distinctive Japanese craftsmanship, which has garnered a loyal following among guitar enthusiasts. The vintage-style tuning machines and traditional Telecaster bridge ensure stable tuning and precise intonation, making it a reliable choice for both stage and studio performances.

Whether you’re a collector seeking a piece of history or a musician looking for a dependable instrument with a timeless sound, the 1986 Squier Telecaster offers an authentic playing experience that has stood the test of time.

Key Features:

  • Solid basswood body for balanced tone and lightweight handling
  • Bolt-on maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Dual single-coil pickups for classic Telecaster sound
  • Vintage-style tuning machines for reliable tuning stability
  • Traditional Telecaster bridge design for precise intonation
  • Renowned Japanese craftsmanship from the 1980s
  • Ideal for a variety of musical styles and genres

Product specs

Brand Squier
Model MIJ Telecaster
Finish Black, Blonde
Year 1985 - 1988
Made In Japan
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Top-Load
Color Family Black, Yellow
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Model Family Squier Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1986 Squier Telecaster made in Japan?

The 1986 Squier Telecaster features a classic C-shaped neck profile, which is comfortable for most players and suitable for a wide range of playing styles.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the 1986 Squier Telecaster?

The 1986 Squier Telecaster is equipped with single-coil pickups that deliver bright, crisp tones characteristic of classic Telecasters, making it ideal for genres like country, rock, and blues.

Is the 1986 Squier Telecaster suitable for beginners?

Yes, the 1986 Squier Telecaster is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability and versatile sound, making it a great choice for those starting their musical journey.

How does the 1986 Squier Telecaster compare to a Fender Telecaster from the same era?

The 1986 Squier Telecaster offers similar design and tonal qualities to a Fender Telecaster, but it is generally more affordable due to differences in materials and production location.

What is the fretboard radius of the 1986 Squier Telecaster, and how does it affect playability?

The 1986 Squier Telecaster has a 7.25" fretboard radius, which provides a vintage feel and is well-suited for chord playing, though some players may find it less ideal for modern lead techniques.

Reverend Guitar Man

Reverend Guitar Man

1986 Fender ‘52 Squier Telecaster Made in Japan

Video thumbnail for 1986 Fender ‘52 Squier Telecaster Made in Japan by Reverend Guitar Man

1986 Fender ‘52 Squier Telecaster Made in Japan

Reverend Guitar Man

Reverend Guitar Man

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Squier 1986 Squier Telecaster (Japan).

Build quality

  • The necks on 80s MIJ Squiers are frequently praised for their excellent craftsmanship and playability.

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  • The thick poly finish on 80s MIJ Squiers is noted for its unique feel, which some players find superior to current models.

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Features and functionality

  • The System 1 tremolo on these models is known for hard-to-find parts, and the fine tuners are prone to stripping.

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Value and pricing

  • Many suggest not spending over $500 on an 80s MIJ Squier due to potential maintenance and parts issues.

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  • It's noted that similar guitars could sell for around $1200 in the US, indicating a high potential resale value for collectors.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Older MIJ Squiers may require work to restore them to optimal condition, particularly in electronics and hardware.

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  • Disassembling the neck can reveal a date stamp, offering a more precise dating method for the guitar's parts.

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Comparisons

  • Some argue the wood quality and aging process of MIJ Squiers might offer better stability and tone compared to newer, pricier models.

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  • Owners often compare the 1985 Japanese Squier favorably against newer MIM models, citing superior fit, finish, and neck contours.

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  • One user emphasized that MIJ Squiers from the 80s are significantly better than post-2010 non-US Fenders, highlighting preference based on craftsmanship.

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User experience

  • Owners express comfort with cosmetic wear as long as it does not affect the instrument's functionality, showing a preference for playability over aesthetics.

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  • An owner described an 80s Squier as the "strattiest strat," indicating a highly authentic Stratocaster feel and sound.

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  • A player who owned both 80s MIJ Squiers and MIM Strats reported a clear preference for the former, describing it as one of the best guitars they've ever played.

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Use cases and applications

  • The guitar's color combination is considered highly desirable, potentially boosting its appeal among collectors and enthusiasts.

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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Pat Sansone uses Squier 1986 Squier Telecaster (Japan)

Pat Sansone

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Wilco

...
Verified via reverb.com

Listing in Wilco's Reverb Store: Serial Number A004067 so Made in Japan from 1985-1986: "owned and played by Pat Sansone of Wilco"

See how Jay Ferguson uses Squier 1986 Squier Telecaster (Japan)

Jay Ferguson

Guitarist

Sloan

...
Verified via Photo

Jay Ferguson has been using his 1986 Squier Telecaster (Japan) since Sloan's debut performance, as highlighted in his recent Instagram post promoting an upcoming solo show.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Squier 1986 Squier Telecaster (Japan), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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