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Average Price: $571

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Experience the perfect fusion of vintage charm and modern precision with the 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan. This exceptional electric guitar is a testament to Fender Japan's dedication to recreating classic American models with meticulous attention to detail. Designed during the golden era of Fender Japan's production, this reissue captures the essence of the iconic '62 Stratocaster, beloved by musicians across generations.

Crafted with a keen eye for authenticity, the guitar features a sleek alder body and a maple neck that feels as though it's been plucked straight from the past. The rosewood fretboard offers a smooth playing experience, while the trio of single-coil pickups deliver that legendary Stratocaster sound—crisp, clear, and unmistakably vintage. The guitar's vintage-style tremolo bridge enhances its classic vibe, allowing for expressive playability and dynamic tonal possibilities.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or a passionate collector, the 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan is a versatile instrument that will elevate your music to new heights. Its rich history and exceptional craftsmanship make it not just a guitar, but a piece of musical heritage. Join a community of musicians who appreciate the legacy and innovation of Fender Japan.

Key Features:

  • Alder body with a glossy finish
  • Maple neck with a rosewood fretboard
  • 21 vintage-style frets
  • Vintage-style tremolo bridge for expressive playability
  • Three single-coil pickups for authentic Stratocaster tones
  • Classic sunburst finish available

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model ST-62 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Vintage MIJ / CIJ

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan?

The 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan features a vintage-style neck profile, typically a "C" shape, which provides a comfortable and familiar feel reminiscent of early 1960s Stratocasters.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on this guitar?

The 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan is equipped with vintage-style single-coil pickups that deliver bright, clear tones with the classic Stratocaster sound, making it versatile for genres like rock, blues, and pop.

Is the 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan suitable for beginner players?

While this guitar offers excellent playability and classic tones, its vintage-style features and setup might be better appreciated by intermediate to advanced players familiar with traditional Stratocaster characteristics.

How does the Japanese reissue compare to American-made Stratocasters?

The Japanese reissue is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to vintage details, often offering a unique take on the classic Fender sound and feel, while American-made Stratocasters are typically seen as the standard for authentic Fender tones.

What is the fretboard material on the 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan?

This model features a rosewood fretboard, which contributes to a warm, rounded tone and provides a smooth playing surface.

John Heussenstamm

John Heussenstamm

Fender 1962 Stratocaster Reissue Japan review

Video thumbnail for Fender 1962 Stratocaster Reissue Japan review by John Heussenstamm

Fender 1962 Stratocaster Reissue Japan review

John Heussenstamm

John Heussenstamm

Video thumbnail for 1986 Fender Stratocaster Vintage 62, Made in Japan, Part1 by GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

1986 Fender Stratocaster Vintage 62, Made in Japan, Part1

GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1980's Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Candy Apple Red | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1980's Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Candy Apple Red | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue - made in Japan, Part1 by GregsGuitars

1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue - made in Japan, Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Fender Stratocaster 1962 reissue MIJ/CIJ by Mateusz Madej

Fender Stratocaster 1962 reissue MIJ/CIJ

Mateusz Madej

Mateusz Madej

Video thumbnail for 1986 Fender Stratocaster Vintage 62, Made in Japan, Part2 by GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

1986 Fender Stratocaster Vintage 62, Made in Japan, Part2

GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

Video thumbnail for 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue - made in Japan, Part2 by GregsGuitars

1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue - made in Japan, Part2

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 1986 Fender Stratocaster Vintage 62, Made in Japan, Part3 (alt. Take) by GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

1986 Fender Stratocaster Vintage 62, Made in Japan, Part3 (alt. Take)

GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

GregsGuitars - Gregor Hilden

Video thumbnail for 1985 Japanese Fender Strat test video - Alexandra J W by Alexandra JW

1985 Japanese Fender Strat test video - Alexandra J W

Alexandra JW

Alexandra JW

Video thumbnail for ‘62 Reissue Fender Stratocaster 1996 Candy Apple Red MIJ by Reverend Guitar Man

‘62 Reissue Fender Stratocaster 1996 Candy Apple Red MIJ

Reverend Guitar Man

Reverend Guitar Man

Video thumbnail for Review & Demo | '88 Fender MIJ Japan ST62 ’62 Reissue Stratocaster Rebel Yellow by Guitar Chimp

Review & Demo | '88 Fender MIJ Japan ST62 ’62 Reissue Stratocaster Rebel Yellow

Guitar Chimp

Guitar Chimp

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent playability and setup right out of the box

  • Stunning vintage aesthetics with unique color options

  • Incredible tuning stability, even with extensive tremolo use

  • Classic glassy and bright Strat tones with a warm low end

  • High-quality rosewood fingerboards and smooth fretwork

  • Comfortable fat C-shaped neck with vintage specs

  • Custom color options and appointments for Japanese market models

  • Exceptional sound quality, comparable to high-end models

  • Versatile tone suitable for classic rock and 60s music

  • Superior build quality and craftsmanship from Japanese manufacturing

CONS

  • Slightly less quality components in electronics compared to US variants

  • Intonation issues on low E string due to age and static use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan.

Build quality

  • The color described as "vintage white" closely resembles a yellow/buttercream, which transitions to a translucent white as it ages.

    Source
  • Despite its age, the guitar is noted for being in surprisingly good condition, suggesting a robust build quality typical of mid-'90s Fujigen craftsmanship.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners praise the MIJ ST-62 neck for its round and smooth feel, offering exceptional playability compared to many other Strat models.

    Source
  • Collectors highlight a preference for early '60s spec Strats, like the 1995/96 MIJ, for their authentic vintage feel compared to Mexican or American models.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A 1993 MIJ ST-62 was valued at around 300€, with recent models now commanding prices up to $1000 USD.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guard on the '62 reissue is confirmed to be mint, aligning with vintage expectations for authenticity.

    Source
  • It's been reported that this model may come with Texas Special pickups, adding a distinct tone suitable for blues and rock.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners note the need for a setup to address fret buzz, indicating potential adjustments to action height or neck relief.

    Source
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
gato
gato

143

A 10-point Guitar

Once I found one of these models in a store, I had tried an American vintage model from the 60s and then I tried this one; to say that it was leagues ahead would be an understatement. I should have bought it and I still regret it. It's the embodiment of the Hendrix sound, wonderful. If I find one again, I'll buy it even if I have to sell a kidney. 10

This review has been translated automatically into English. See original
david1997

Very good

Very beautiful guitar Warm sounds with a special style I added some improvements that contributed to the comfort but the sound is still original

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jose Madero uses Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan

Jose Madero

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Se le puede ver usándola en el vídeo musical de "si supieras" del álbum arroz con leche.

See how Pablo Ilabaca uses Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan

Pablo Ilabaca

Singer, Guitarist

Chancho en Piedra

...
Verified via YouTube

favorite and most used guitar by Pablo Ilabaca until 2009

See how Jun Han (준한) uses Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan

Jun Han (준한)

Guitarist

Xdinary Heroes

...
Verified via Twitter

On August 18th, 2025, during a YouTube live stream celebrating his birthday, Jun Han (준한) showcased his guitar collection and specifically mentioned his Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan 1986. He praised its sound quality, expressing surprise at its high cost. Additionally, he shared that he recently took the guitar to Dragon Pony's (드래곤포니) working room, where the band members tried it out and notably commented, "Wah, a 6 million won guitar sounds like this," showing interest in purchasing one themselves. This information is corroborated by a post from gaonfansite on Twitter.

See how Rome Ramirez uses Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan

Rome Ramirez

Singer, Guitarist

Sublime with Rome

...
Verified via Ultimate-guitar

In an interview with Ultimate Guitar, Rome Ramirez discusses his gear, including his 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan.

See how Martin Omar Basualdo uses Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan

Martin Omar Basualdo

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

In 2017, Martin Omar Basualdo added a 1996 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan, featuring custom shop pickups, to his collection. A user-uploaded photo on Fbcdn showcases this guitar.

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 Fender Stratocaster '62 Reissue Japan, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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