I found this in Consignment Music in Memphis, Tennessee. Squires were made for Fender in Japan during the 1980's, and the earliest models are considered equal or better quality than the eary 1980's Fullerton, CA Stratocasters. Perceptions did change through the decade, but still hold a decent esteem. When Japan's contracts expired and Fender did not yet have Mexican contracts in place, they still had orders to fill. During 1990-1991, they made Squires in Corona, CA, USA. It is alleged that they pulled together whatever parts they had at hand to match the model. This makes the USA made Squire unique and pot-luck as to what you get, but at the same time, rare, limited in number, and a great talking point.
Mine has a Nx serial on the headstock (E = Eighties, N = Nineties), and is confirmed as a 1991 model by the stamp on the neck butt. My headstock also includes "Made in U.S.A." with a single string tree. With the rosewood fretboard, 11 hole pick guard, and vintage style bridge saddles, mine closely resembles the 1962 Vintage Reissues. The "FENDER FENDER" stamps on my saddles are facing the same direction, matching those used in Japan. A 5-way switch is installed, 500k potentiometers, and the pickups have a strong punch with ceramic magnets. It's late for noise, but I will post an A/V clip.
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