The Fender American Vintage II ‘66 Jazzmaster Electric Guitar pays homage to a pivotal era in Fender’s history, bringing back the look, feel, and tone of the original offset design that broke the mold in the mid-1960s. Crafted with extraordinary attention to detail, this instrument recreates the exact specifications of the 1966 Jazzmaster, giving modern players an authentic vintage experience straight from Fender’s golden age.
The body is made from alder, offering balanced tonal characteristics with warmth, clarity, and a strong midrange punch. Finished in nitrocellulose lacquer, the body not only resonates naturally but also develops a beautiful patina over time, giving each guitar a unique, well-loved character as it ages. The offset shape, originally designed for comfort during long sessions, remains one of Fender’s most recognizable silhouettes.
Its maple neck is carved into a comfortable “C” profile true to the period, paired with a bound round-lam rosewood fingerboard adorned with pearloid block inlays—a detail that made the 1966 model stand out from earlier Jazzmasters. The 7.25-inch fingerboard radius and 21 vintage-style frets provide the slinky, slightly curved playing feel of classic Fender guitars, perfect for expressive bends and authentic vintage response.
Electronics are where the Jazzmaster shines. Outfitted with Pure Vintage ‘66 single-coil Jazzmaster pickups, the guitar produces the airy highs, smooth lows, and articulate midrange that define its voice. Whether shimmering through clean passages, delivering glassy surf tones, or producing textured indie rock rhythms, the pickups capture the wide dynamic range that made the Jazzmaster a studio favorite. The dual-circuit design—featuring independent lead and rhythm tone controls—further enhances its versatility, allowing players to switch instantly between warm rhythm textures and brighter lead tones.
The hardware is meticulously vintage-accurate, including the original-style floating tremolo bridge with lock button, which provides expressive pitch control while ensuring stability. Coupled with vintage-style tuning machines, the guitar offers dependable tuning reliability with the aesthetic charm of the original models. Chrome hardware and period-correct knobs and switches complete the authentic 1960s look.
From its visual appeal to its sonic character, the Fender American Vintage II ‘66 Jazzmaster is more than just an instrument—it’s a time machine. It captures the essence of mid-’60s Fender design, appealing not only to Jazzmaster enthusiasts and collectors but also to players seeking an expressive and unique guitar that stands apart from traditional models. With its blend of history, craftsmanship, and performance, the American Vintage II ‘66 Jazzmaster is a remarkable tool for those who want the unmistakable Fender offset sound and style in its purest form.
