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Edgewater Blog

Edgewater Blog

Edgewater Blog

Edgewater Blog

Edgewater Blog

Edgewater Blog

Sunday, August 17, 2025

# 1966 Fender Jazzmaster: The First Year of Blocks and Binding ## Why the 1966 Jazzmaster Matters The 1966 Fender Jazzmaster represents a pivotal moment in guitar history—the first full year of production featuring the distinctive block inlays and binding that defined the CBS era of Fender instruments. Block inlays replace dots mid-year and Blocks: summer of 1966, making 1966 examples historically significant as transitional instruments bridging the pre-CBS and CBS eras. What makes 1966 special: * First year of full production with pearloid block inlays and white binding * Binding: summer of 1965 had been introduced the previous year, but blocks were new for 1966 * End of "transition era" to CBS management * These features distinguished "deluxe models" from standard Fender guitars * Custom color options often featured matching painted headstocks * Superior build quality maintained from the pre-CBS era * The comfortable "C" profile neck with 7.25" radius for authentic vintage feel ## Historical Context Section In 1966, Fender was fully under CBS management following the January 1965 acquisition. It was a method to distinguish the "deluxe models (Jaguar, Jazzmaster, Jazz Bass, Bass V, Bass VI, Electric XII and Coronado) from the Standard models (Telecaster, Stratocaster, Precision Bass). The introduction of block inlays and binding wasn't merely cosmetic—it was CBS's strategy to clearly differentiate premium models in their lineup. During this period, the Jazzmaster found its true calling among surf rock musicians rather than the jazz artists it was originally designed for. Though the model never really caught on with jazz players, it was quickly embraced by surf rock players due to its unique floating tremolo system and mellower sounding pickups. The 1966 model year was crucial because it established design elements that would remain standard on Jazzmasters until their original discontinuation in 1980. Jazzmasters featured bound necks with dot inlays in 1965, with block pearloid inlays from 1966 until the end of their original run in 1977. ## Current Market Value (2025 Update) 1966 Jazzmasters have experienced steady appreciation, particularly as collectors recognize the historical significance of this transitional year. The combination of CBS-era appointments with maintained build quality makes these instruments highly sought after. ### Current Market Values: * **Sunburst finish (original):** $8,000-12,000 (excellent condition) * **Custom Colors (Olympic White, Lake Placid Blue):** $12,000-18,000 (excellent condition) * **Rare Custom Colors (Ocean Turquoise, Fiesta Red):** $15,000-25,000 (excellent condition) * **Custom Colors with matching headstock:** Add 15-25% premium ### Key Value Factors: * **Block and Binding Neck:** The distinctive 1966+ feature significantly impacts value * **Originality:** All-original examples command premium pricing over modified instruments * **Custom Color Rarity:** Fender offered Ocean Turquoise from 1965 to 1971 and other custom colors were limited production * **Matching Headstock:** Matched-headstock versions generally fetch a higher price * **Condition:** Clean examples with original hardware bring top dollar **Note:** At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium 1966 Jazzmasters, especially rare custom colors. ## Detailed Identification Guide ### Serial Numbers 110000 - 200000: 1966 serial numbers are found on the neck plate. However, serial numbers alone aren't definitive due to overlap in production periods. ### Neck Date Identification The most reliable identifier is the neck stamp at the heel: (13 = Jazzmaster model, Sep = September, 66 = 1966, B = 1 5/8" nut width). The format follows "13 MMM-YY W" where: * 13 = Jazzmaster model designation * MMM = Month abbreviation * YY = Year * W = Nut width code (A=narrow, B=standard, C=wide) ### Potentiometer Codes 1966 Jazzmasters typically used Stackpole potentiometers with date codes showing manufacture in late 1965 or early 1966. Look for codes like "304 65XX" or "304 66XX" where XX represents the week of manufacture. ### Key Visual Identifiers **Neck Features:** * white neck binding, pearl blocks * Pearloid block inlays (first year of this feature) * 7.25" radius rosewood fingerboard * "C" profile neck shape **Hardware:** * single-line "Fender Deluxe" tuners * Chrome hardware throughout * Original Jazzmaster floating tremolo system * 3-way pickup selector switch **Electronics:** * Two original Jazzmaster "soapbar" single-coil pickups * Lead/rhythm circuit switching * Individual volume and tone controls for each circuit **Transitional Features:** Some early 1966 examples may have transitional specs like pearloid dot inlays with binding as factory stock was used up before full implementation of block inlays. ## Detailed Physical Specifications ### Dimensions and Weight * **Weight range:** 8lbs 5oz typical, ranging from 8-9 pounds * **Scale length:** 25 1/2-inch scale length * **Neck dimensions:** .85" neck depth at the first fret, .95" neck depth at the 12th fret ### Construction Details * **Body:** Alder body with comfort-contoured offset waist * **Neck:** Maple neck with veneer Rosewood fingerboard * **Fretboard radius:** 7.25" vintage radius * **Frets:** 21 vintage tall frets * **Nut width:** Standard 1 5/8" (B width designation) ### Pickup Specifications * Two original Jazzmaster single-coil "soapbar" pickups * the pole pieces of the Jazzmaster pickup are magnets themselves * Approximate resistance: 7.5-8.5k ohms * White pickup covers (often aged to cream/yellow) ### Electronics Configuration * Lead circuit: Master volume, master tone, 3-way pickup selector * Rhythm circuit: Separate volume and tone controls on upper horn * Original cloth-covered wiring * 1-meg potentiometers (typical for the era) ## Tonal Characteristics The 1966 Jazzmaster offers a distinctive sonic character that bridges the gap between Stratocaster brightness and Gibson warmth. mellower sounding pickups compared to Stratocaster pickups, the Jazzmaster produces: **Bridge Pickup:** Bright, cutting tone with excellent note definition. bright crystalline highs from the bridge **Neck Pickup:** meaty, rich tone from the neck pickup with smooth midrange character **Rhythm Circuit:** warm and rich sound from the dark circuit provides mellow, jazz-appropriate tones The floating tremolo system contributes to the guitar's unique resonance characteristics, offering different resonance and generally less sustain compared to Stratocaster tremolo systems, but with distinctive harmonic complexity. ## Common Issues & Modifications ### Typical Problems Found: * **Bridge Issues:** Original floating bridge can cause tuning instability * **Tremolo Arm Wear:** Original arms often show significant wear or breakage * **Electronics:** Original potentiometers may require replacement after 60+ years * **Pickup Height:** Foam underneath pickups often deteriorates, affecting pickup height * **Finish Checking:** Nitrocellulose finishes develop characteristic checking patterns ### Warning Signs of Non-Original Parts: * Replaced tuners (often Grovers were added) * Modified electronics or wiring * Replaced pickguards (many changed to black in the 1970s) * Bridge modifications or replacements * Refinishing or over-spraying ### Common Period Modifications: Many 1966 Jazzmasters received modifications in subsequent decades: * The pots have been replaced with DiMarzio 500K and then tuners were previously Grover'd * Pickguard changes to black or white * Bridge upgrades for improved stability * Electronics modifications ## Why Players/Collectors Value This Model ### Playing Characteristics: * comfortable "C" shape maple neck that plays like a dream * Authentic 7.25" radius feels natural for vintage playing styles * quintessential CBS feel from the bound neck which sports a comfortable slimmer "C" profile * Excellent for both rhythm and lead playing ### Collector Appeal: * First year of the iconic block and binding feature * Historical significance as transitional CBS-era model * Matched-headstock versions generally fetch a higher price on custom colors * Represents the peak of CBS-era aesthetic upgrades ### Investment Potential: * Steady appreciation over the past decade * Custom colors commanding premium prices * Block and binding necks increasingly sought after * Growing recognition of 1966 as a significant model year ## Selling Your 1966 Fender Jazzmaster If you own a 1966 Jazzmaster, Edgewater Guitars offers several advantages over traditional selling methods: ### Premium Valuations We typically pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops because we understand the specific value factors that matter for 1966 Jazzmasters: * The significance of block and binding necks * Rarity of custom colors and matching headstocks * Importance of original hardware and electronics * Historical context of this transitional model year ### Expert Authentication Our team specializes in identifying: * Original vs. replacement parts * Proper dating through neck stamps and pot codes * Verification of custom color authenticity * Assessment of any modifications or repairs ### Streamlined Process We handle all logistics for high-value vintage instruments: * In-person evaluation for guitars over $5,000 * Immediate cash offers * Professional photography and documentation * Secure transportation arrangements **Ready to sell your 1966 Jazzmaster?** Get your free valuation by calling (440) 219-3607 or contact us online. ## Related Resources * [Complete Fender Serial Number Lookup Tool](https://edgewaterguitars.com/serial-lookup) * [Fender Potentiometer Dating Guide](https://edgewaterguitars.com/pot-dating) * [How to Spot Refinished Jazzmasters](https://edgewaterguitars.com/refinish-guide) * [Neck Date Decoder for Vintage Fenders](https://edgewaterguitars.com/neck-dating) * [1965 Fender Jazzmaster: Transition to Binding](https://edgewaterguitars.com/1965-jazzmaster) * [1967 Fender Jazzmaster: Fully CBS Era](https://edgewaterguitars.com/1967-jazzmaster) ## Recent Purchase Example We recently acquired an all-original 1966 Jazzmaster in Olympic White with matching headstock from a collector in Cleveland. The guitar featured the classic blocks and binding neck with a December 1965 neck date—a perfect example of the transitional specifications. After providing a comprehensive authentication and appraisal, we made an immediate cash offer that exceeded the seller's expectations by more than $3,000 compared to quotes from local music stores. The transaction was completed within 48 hours, and the seller appreciated our expertise in recognizing the guitar's specific historical significance. This example demonstrates why collectors and sellers choose Edgewater Guitars: we understand that a 1966 Jazzmaster isn't just another vintage guitar—it's a piece of history representing Fender's transition into the CBS era while maintaining the quality that made these instruments legendary. ## Closing Section Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to you for high-value instruments like 1966 Jazzmasters, providing expert authentication and fair market valuations. Whether your 1966 Jazzmaster is a sunburst workhorse or a rare custom color showpiece, we understand its value and significance in guitar history. Our expertise in CBS-era Fenders ensures you receive the premium pricing these transitional instruments deserve. **Contact us today for your free, no-obligation valuation: (440) 219-3607** *Written by the vintage guitar experts at Edgewater Guitars, with over 20 years of experience in authentication, valuation, and acquisition of premium vintage Fender instruments.*

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