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Fender Japanese Stratocaster 1988

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Page last updated Nov 25, 2025

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Description

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1988 Fender Japanese Stratocaster in Black with upgraded DiMarzio Billy Corgan Prewired Pickguard in Black

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Dave's World of Fun Stuff

1988 Fender Made in Japan Stratocaster

Dave's World of Fun Stuff

1988 Fender Stratocaster

Dave Simpson

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Japanese Stratocaster 1988.

Features and functionality

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The string trees on late '80s MIJ Strats are often black and match the era's design, contrary to some misconceptions.
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The System One locking bridge and nut, made by Schaller, is rare but offers stability when set up correctly; often requires some nut work for optimal performance.
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The neck pickup on standard MIJ Strats is highly praised for its tone, with some owners stating it's among the best they've played.
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Build quality

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Many '80s Japanese Strats lack serial numbers on the neck plates, aligning with period-correct manufacturing practices.
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Multiple placements of the "Made in Japan" text exist, such as under "Stratocaster" on the headstock or at the base of the neck, indicating factory variations.
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Setup and maintenance

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Original string trees from the late '80s MIJ models might need checking, as variations exist, but they are usually correct for that era.
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Some users report fret buzz around the 17th fret due to the 7.25" radius, suggesting higher action may be needed for deep bends.
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Use cases and applications

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A 7.25" neck profile is standard for this model, with ST-62 versions lacking the darker wood spot seen in ST-57s.
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The Strat's unique story, being manufactured during a time when no US Fenders were produced, adds historical value and authenticity.
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Comparisons

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Japanese Fenders from the '80s are often considered to have craftsmanship that rivals or surpasses US-made models, making them highly sought after.
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The "Fujigen Gakki" factory-made guitars are considered superior in craftsmanship compared to other Japanese factories, with a preference for their neck feel.
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User experience

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The top lock and small dot inlays on the ebony fretboard are distinctive features of the '80s MIJ Contemporary Strat series.
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Mods and upgrades

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It's suggested to upgrade the electronics and pickups, with options like Fender Texas Specials or Seymour Duncan pickups for enhanced sound quality.
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Value and pricing

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Rare colors like dark green or purple can add $300-$400 to the guitar's price due to their scarcity compared to more common finishes like Olympic White.
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