Fender
Since 1946
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), founded by Leo Fender, is renowned worldwide for its iconic Stratocaster and Telecaster electric guitars. Beyond legendary electric guitars, Fender also produces revolutionary bass instruments like the Precision Bass and Jazz Bass.
79
Years in Business
20M+
Guitars Sold
$1.2B
Annual Revenue
Complete Fender Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Fender guitars.
Market Overview
Average Price
$950
+7% vs last year
eBay Listings
3,500
Active listings
Sold This Month
2,200
+12% vs last month
Price Range
$200-$30,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Complete Fender Product Lineup
"Fender covers the complete price range from entry-level to flagship models with its diverse series"
Electric Guitars
Electric Basses
Product Series
Entry-level series, in use since 1982
Professional, Ultra, Performer, Plus and more
Modern features with classic tone
Vintage-inspired designs
West Coast inspired models
Experimental and unique designs
Acoustic guitars and classical instruments
Complete sound solutions
"Fender covers the complete price range from entry-level to flagship models with its diverse series"
Fender Timeline
Leo Fender Born
August 10th, Clarence Leonidas "Leo" Fender was born in Anaheim, California.
Radio Service Started
Fender's Radio Service launched, providing radio and amplifier repair services.
K&F Manufacturing
Partnered with Doc Kauffman to establish K&F Manufacturing Corp, producing Hawaiian-style guitars and amplifiers.
Company Founded
Fender Electric Instrument Company officially established in Fullerton, California.
Telecaster Launch
Introduced the Telecaster, the first mass-produced solid-body electric guitar, revolutionizing the music industry.
Precision Bass Released
Released the Precision Bass, redefining electric bass playing and tone standards.
Stratocaster Debut
The iconic Stratocaster made its debut, revolutionizing electric guitar design with tremolo system and three-pickup configuration.
Jazz Bass Born
Jazz Bass released, becoming the new bass standard with slimmer neck and versatile tones.
CBS Acquisition
Acquired by CBS Musical Instruments for $13 million, beginning the "CBS era".
Employee Buyout
Employee team led by Bill Schultz bought the company back from CBS, renamed to Fender Musical Instruments Corporation.
International Expansion
Established production line in Ensenada, Mexico, beginning international manufacturing layout.
New CEO
Andy Mooney became CEO, leading the company into a new development phase.
Ownership Change
Servco Pacific became major shareholder, injecting new momentum for company development.
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each Fender model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
Stratocaster Buying Guide
Pickup Configuration
'54-'60 Reissue: SSS single coils for crisp, bright tone; HSS (Humbucker+SS): Fuller low-end, suitable for rock
Tremolo System
Vintage-style vs. Two-Point Fulcrum: Former offers more flexibility, latter provides more precise return-to-pitch
Neck Profile
'60s C Profile vs. Modern 'C' vs. 'D': Different thickness and grip feel for various playing styles
Telecaster Buying Guide
Bridge Pickup
Copper baseplate vs. Cast aluminum: Copper offers warmer tone, aluminum provides brighter clarity
Neck Feel
Modern vs. Vintage Thin 'C': Modern is slimmer profile, Vintage offers rounder, fuller grip
Bridge Design
Traditional 3-saddle bridge vs. 6-saddle top-loading: Latter offers more string tension, former maintains vintage authenticity
Jazzmaster/Jaguar Buying Guide
Tremolo & Bridge
Surf Trem vs. Tune-o-matic: Different operation methods and resonance characteristics
Circuit System
'Rhythm'/'Lead' circuits: Switching positions create distinct EQ response differences
Pickup Response
Offset body design affects pickup positioning and tonal balance compared to traditional designs