Still not even a year into production, this extremely early (January ‘59 neck date) 1959 Fender Jazzmaster should definitely have a place in your collection.

All the accoutrements of a top of the line instrument, the Jazzmaster should definitely not be overlooked as a viable tonal alternative to the ubiquitous Fender mainstays and a model that has seen strong price growths over the recent few years. Tons of tonal options and some impressive lines, Leo didn’t drop the ball as much as you’d think with this one and it has always remained his top of the line model.

The guitar is in superb, near MINT shape. There are a few dinks as you’d expect them and a few minor scratches to the back but the sunburst finish has remained un-faded and a deep lush, vibrant hue. The anodised aluminium pickguard, soon to be replaced by celluloid in the middle of the same year, like the body is untouched by time. 

The neck is of particular note as the piece of maple used has an attractive figure. The lacquer is still glossy and the fretboard shows no real signs of use. The original frets are worn but have plenty of life left.

The hardware is very clean and like the guitar as whole, very well looked after and without a doubt, one of the cleanest we have seen in recent times with absolutely Zero issues. The electronics are untouched and the all the solder joints are correct. This was probably started in 1958 (first year of the JM) and just squeaked out of Fullerton in early 1959. 

The guitar comes with the correct tweed hardshell case which is in very nice condition.

This guitar sounds great. The magic of these guitars is the two independent circuits and how they open up different tonal options. The rhythm circuit is dark without being murky. The lead circuit adds some more high end into the mix. Here the neck pickup is smooth and contrasts well with the bridge pickup, this bringing a delightful twang to the mix. With both pickups on the guitar has a wonderful shimmer which is great for chords.

If you’ve been in search of ‘the one’ Jazzmaster to rule them all, then this might be the one for you, it is also one in investment grade condition and considering how these have grown in price over just the last couple of years, it would also likely be a decent financial bet.