Introduced in 1962, the Jaguar was Fender’s top-of-the-line model, designed to compete with Gibson’s higher-end guitars. Known for its shorter 24-inch scale length, unique floating tremolo system, and distinctive control layout, the Jaguar stood out with its versatile tone, favored by surf rock musicians and, later, alternative and punk rock artists.

This particular 1965 Jaguar is in very good condition, showcasing natural wear that enhances its character. The Candy Apple Red appeared in the Fender catalog in 1963, replacing the rather unpopular Shell Pink. It is a magnificent and deep color obtained by applying a metallic undercoat and then a translucent red. This color was not available from car manufacturers at the time (Ford, GM, Chrysler…) it was especially popular on custom cars and only appeared at Dupont, the paint manufacturer, in 1966.The finish has aged very nicely, with almost no fade and still very bright and lively.

The guitar has its original vintage style frets, which are low but remain very playable. This is a transitional model that features dot markers and fingerboard binding, something you see briefly just before the blocks are introduced.

All solder inside the guitar is original. The original pickups are well balanced (6.15Kohm for the neck pickup 6.20Kohm for the bridge), and pots are original, dated Week 45, 1965. The mute foam has been changed, they tend to harden over time which makes them unusable. This is the only change made to the guitar. The bridge cover is present which is rare. The vibrato arm is original. Original tuners. Nut too, everything is there. The guitar comes with its period hard case, also in excellent condition.

A rare opportunity for a really top-level Jaguar!

SPECIFICATIONS

Body Wood: Alder, Candy Apple Red
Neck Wood: Maple with rosewood fingerboard
Scale Length: 24 inches
Pickups: Two single-coil pickups with shielded lead and rhythm circuits
Hardware: Chrome hardware, floating tremolo system, bridge mute
Controls: Lead circuit with volume/tone, rhythm circuit with thumbwheel tone/volume, on-off switches for each pickup
Frets: Original, low but playable
Weight: 3700g
Neck Date: SEP 65
Pots: CTS, original, dated week 45, 1965
Case: Original