Complete Guide to Original Fender Guitar Tuners (1951-1968): Identification and Authentication

Why Identifying Original Fender Tuners Matters

Understanding original Fender guitar tuners is essential for authentication, accurate dating, and proper valuation of vintage instruments. Tuners (also called tuning machines or machine heads) were not just functional hardware—they evolved through specific manufacturers, designs, and features from 1951 through 1968 that serve as critical dating tools and authenticity markers for Telecasters, Stratocasters, Jazzmasters, Jaguars, Precision Basses, and Jazz Basses.

Whether you own a 1950s Telecaster with original Kluson tuners, a 1960s Stratocaster with double-line Klusons, a Jazzmaster with reverse tuners, or any vintage Fender guitar, understanding tuner evolution helps you accurately date your instrument, verify originality, detect replacements, and establish proper market value.

This comprehensive guide examines every aspect of Fender guitar tuner evolution from 1951 through 1968 (pre-CBS and early CBS eras), providing authentication guidance for collectors, dealers, and players across all major Fender models.

Overview: Major Fender Tuner Periods

1951-1956: Early Kluson Deluxe Era

• Kluson Deluxe tuners standard

• Single-line tuners (early)

• Strip tuners on Telecaster (some)

• Chrome finish

• Individual enclosed tuners introduced

1956-1964: Classic Pre-CBS Kluson Era

• Kluson Deluxe standard across all models

• Single-line to double-line transition

• Consistent quality

• Peak pre-CBS era

1965-1968: CBS Transition and F-Stamp Era

• Kluson continues (early)

• F-stamped tuners introduced (mid-1965+)

• Quality variations

• Transitional specifications

• Various manufacturers

Kluson Deluxe Tuners: The Fender Standard

What Are Kluson Deluxe Tuners?

Manufacturer: Kluson Manufacturing Company (Kalamazoo, Michigan)

Primary Fender Supplier: 1951-1968 (and beyond)

Key Characteristics:

• Enclosed gear design

• Chrome-plated housing

• Plastic buttons (white/cream)

• Individual mounting (not strip)

• 15:1 gear ratio typically

• Smooth tuning action

• Premium quality

Fender Models Using Kluson Deluxe:

• Telecaster (1951-1968)

• Esquire (1951-1968)

• Stratocaster (1954-1968)

• Jazzmaster (1958-1968)

• Jaguar (1962-1968)

• Precision Bass (1951-1968)

• Jazz Bass (1960-1968)

• Virtually all Fender electrics

Kluson Single-Line vs. Double-Line Tuners

Single-Line Kluson Tuners (approximately 1951-1958):

Identification:

• Single line of text on housing

• "KLUSON DELUXE" in single line

• Earlier production

• Less common

• Collectible

Appearance:

• Text runs horizontally

• Single stamped line

• Chrome housing

• Plastic buttons

Models:

• Early Telecasters (1951-1958)

• Early Stratocasters (1954-1958)

• Early Precision Basses (1951-1958)

Dating Significance: Single-line tuners indicate late 1950s or earlier

Double-Line Kluson Tuners (approximately 1958-1968):

Identification:

• Two lines of text on housing

• "KLUSON" on top line

• "DELUXE" on bottom line

• Later production

• More common

• Standard pre-CBS and early CBS

Appearance:

• Text in two horizontal lines

• Stacked lettering

• Chrome housing

• Plastic buttons

Models:

• Telecasters (1958-1968)

• Stratocasters (1958-1968)

• Jazzmasters (1958-1968)

• Jaguars (1962-1968)

• Basses (1958-1968)

Dating Significance: Double-line tuners indicate late 1950s or later

Transition Period (1958-1959):

• Both single-line and double-line exist

• Exact transition date unclear

• Factory used existing stock

• Overlap between styles

Kluson Button Styles

Original Fender Kluson Buttons:

Material: Plastic (typically white or cream-colored)

Shape: Oval/tulip shape

Aging:

• White buttons age to cream/yellowed

• UV exposure affects color

• Uniform aging expected

• Shrinkage possible

Variations:

• Early buttons slightly different shape

• Later buttons more standardized

• Consistent oval/tulip profile

• Metal insert for mounting screw

Authentication:

• Original buttons show age-appropriate wear

• Color consistent across all six tuners

• Proper mounting fit

• Period-correct material and shape

Model-Specific Tuner Details

Fender Telecaster Tuners (1951-1968)

1951-1952 Telecaster/Broadcaster:

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Single-line tuners

• Chrome finish

• Plastic buttons

• Individual enclosed design

1953-1958 Telecaster:

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Single-line tuners

• Chrome housing

• White/cream buttons

• Standard mounting

1958-1964 Telecaster (Pre-CBS):

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Double-line tuners (most)

• Chrome finish

• Plastic buttons

• Peak pre-CBS quality

1965 Telecaster (Transition):

• Kluson Deluxe (early)

• F-stamped tuners appear (late)

• Transitional year

• Quality variations

1966-1968 Telecaster (CBS):

• F-stamped tuners standard

• Various manufacturers

• Chrome finish

• Quality variations

Dating Telecasters by Tuners:

• Single-line Kluson = 1958 or earlier

• Double-line Kluson = 1958-1965

• F-stamped = 1965 onward

Important Resource: Use our Fender Serial Number Lookup Tool to verify your Telecaster's era.

Fender Stratocaster Tuners (1954-1968)

1954-1958 Stratocaster:

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Single-line tuners (early)

• Double-line tuners (late 1950s)

• Chrome housing

• White/cream plastic buttons

• Standard six-in-line configuration

1959-1964 Stratocaster (Pre-CBS):

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Double-line tuners standard

• Chrome finish

• Plastic buttons

• Consistent quality

• Peak era

1965 Stratocaster (Transition):

• Kluson Deluxe (early)

• F-stamped tuners appear (mid-late)

• Transitional features

• Quality begins varying

1966-1968 Stratocaster (CBS):

• F-stamped tuners standard

• Various manufacturers

• Chrome finish

• Quality variations

Dating Stratocasters by Tuners:

• Single-line Kluson = 1958 or earlier

• Double-line Kluson = 1958-1965

• F-stamped = 1965 onward

String Tree Interaction:

• Butterfly string tree (1956+)

• Affects high E and B strings

• Tuners work with string tree

Fender Jazzmaster Tuners (1958-1968)

1958-1964 Jazzmaster (Pre-CBS):

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Standard six-in-line configuration

• Double-line tuners standard

• Chrome finish

• Plastic buttons

Configuration:

• All six tuners standard configuration

• Six-in-line layout

• Same as Stratocaster/Telecaster

• Kluson Deluxe throughout

1965 Jazzmaster (Transition):

• Kluson Deluxe (early)

• F-stamped tuners (late)

• Standard configuration

• Transitional period

1966-1968 Jazzmaster (CBS):

• F-stamped tuners

• Standard configuration

• Various manufacturers

Dating Jazzmasters by Tuners:

• Double-line Kluson = Pre-CBS likely

• F-stamped = CBS era

• Standard six-in-line configuration

Fender Jaguar Tuners (1962-1968)

Jaguar Tuner Configuration: Same as other Fender guitars

1962-1964 Jaguar (Pre-CBS):

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Standard six-in-line configuration

• Double-line tuners

• Chrome finish

• Plastic buttons

1965 Jaguar (Transition):

• Kluson (early) to F-stamped (late)

• Standard configuration

• Transitional features

1966-1968 Jaguar (CBS):

• F-stamped tuners standard

• Standard configuration

• Various manufacturers

Dating Jaguars by Tuners:

• Double-line Kluson = Pre-CBS

• F-stamped = CBS era

Fender Precision Bass Tuners (1951-1968)

1951-1957 Precision Bass:

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Single-line tuners (early)

• Chrome finish

• Plastic buttons

• Four tuners (bass configuration)

1958-1964 Precision Bass (Pre-CBS):

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Double-line tuners standard

• Chrome housing

• Plastic buttons

• Four-in-line configuration

1965 Precision Bass (Transition):

• Kluson (early) to F-stamped (late)

• Transitional period

• Quality variations

1966-1968 Precision Bass (CBS):

• F-stamped tuners standard

• Various manufacturers

• Chrome finish

Dating Precision Bass by Tuners:

• Single-line Kluson = 1957 or earlier

• Double-line Kluson = 1958-1965

• F-stamped = 1965 onward

Fender Jazz Bass Tuners (1960-1968)

1960-1964 Jazz Bass (Pre-CBS):

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Double-line tuners

• Chrome finish

• Plastic buttons

• Four-in-line configuration

• Same tuners as Precision Bass

1965 Jazz Bass (Transition):

• Kluson (early) to F-stamped (late)

• Transitional features

• Quality variations

1966-1968 Jazz Bass (CBS):

• F-stamped tuners standard

• Various manufacturers

• Chrome finish

Dating Jazz Bass by Tuners:

• Double-line Kluson = Pre-CBS

• F-stamped = CBS era

CBS Era: F-Stamped Tuners (1965-1968)

What Are F-Stamped Tuners?

Introduction: Mid-1965 during CBS acquisition

"F" Stamp:

• Letter "F" stamped on tuner housing

• Indicates CBS ownership period

• Quality control mark (theoretically)

• Quick visual dating indicator

Appearance:

• "F" stamped on back or side of housing

• Various stamp locations

• May be faint or clear

• Chrome housing continues

Manufacturers:

• Still primarily Kluson-made

• Various other manufacturers possible

• Quality more variable than pre-CBS

Models Affected:

• All Fender guitars (1965 onward)

• Telecaster, Stratocaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar

• Precision Bass, Jazz Bass

• All CBS-era Fenders

Dating Significance of F-Stamp

F-Stamp Present: 1965 or later (CBS era)

No F-Stamp: Pre-1965 (Pre-CBS era)

Critical for 1965:

• Early 1965 = no F-stamp (pre-CBS)

• Mid-1965 = F-stamp appears

• Late 1965 = F-stamp standard

• Essential dating marker

F-Stamped vs. Non-F-Stamped Tuners

Pre-CBS (No F-Stamp):

• Consistent Kluson quality

• No F stamp on housing

• More collectible

• Higher value

CBS Era (F-Stamped):

• "F" stamp present

• Variable quality

• Less collectible

• Lower value (all else equal)

Value Impact:

• F-stamp reduces collectibility

• Indicates CBS era

• Pre-CBS tuners more desirable

• Significant market perception difference

Tuner Authentication and Verification

Original Kluson Characteristics

Housing:

• Chrome plated

• Smooth finish

• "KLUSON DELUXE" stamped

• Single-line or double-line

• Consistent font

• Period-correct stampings

Gears:

• Metal gears inside

• Smooth operation

• 15:1 ratio typical

• Quality construction

• Enclosed design

Buttons:

• Plastic (white/cream)

• Oval/tulip shape

• Age-appropriate color

• Metal insert for screw

• Consistent across all tuners

Mounting:

• Individual screw mounting

• Chrome bushings

• Specific mounting footprint

• Proper fit on headstock

Reproduction vs. Original Tuners

Original Vintage Kluson Tuners:

• Period-correct stampings

• Appropriate wear and aging

• Correct button color/aging

• Proper font on housing

• Smooth, quality operation

• Age-appropriate patina

Modern Reproduction Tuners:

• Often too shiny/new

• Font details may differ

• Button color too white

• Gear operation may differ

• Modern manufacturing marks

• Perfect condition (suspicious on aged guitar)

Red Flags:

• Brand new appearance on old guitar

• Incorrect stamping font

• Wrong button style or color

• Modern mounting hardware

• Inconsistent aging across six tuners

• F-stamp on supposedly pre-CBS guitar

Common Tuner Issues

Replaced Tuners:

• Most common modification

• Reduces originality and value

• Must be disclosed when selling

• Value reduction: 10-30%

Mixed Tuner Sets:

• Some original, some replaced

• Different manufacturers mixed

• Reduces value significantly

• Authenticity compromised

Refinished Tuners:

• Re-chromed housings

• Affects originality

• May look "too good"

• Value reduction

Modified Mounting:

• Enlarged holes for different tuners

• Drilled headstock damage

• Significant value reduction

• Difficult to reverse

Tuner-Related Dating Indicators

Mounting Configuration

Six-In-Line (Telecaster, Stratocaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar):

• All six tuners on one side

• Standard Fender configuration

• Consistent 1951-1968

Four-In-Line (Precision Bass, Jazz Bass):

• All four tuners on one side

• Standard bass configuration

• Consistent 1951-1968

String Post Variations

Standard Post:

• Smooth post

• String wraps around

• Standard design

Post Height:

• Consistent through era

• Factory specifications

• Proper string angle

Bushing Details

Chrome Bushings:

• Chrome-plated ferrules

• Press-fit into headstock

• Consistent through era

• Should match tuner age

Bushing Wear:

• Age-appropriate wear

• Consistent across all tuners

• Corrosion patterns authentic

Valuation Impact of Original Tuners

Premium Features

Most Valuable:

• Complete set of original pre-CBS Kluson tuners

• Single-line Kluson tuners (1950s)

• All six/four tuners matching

• Original buttons intact

• Proper aging and patina

• No modifications

Value Reductions:

• Replaced tuners: 10-30% reduction

• Mixed tuner sets: 20-40% reduction

• Modified mounting holes: 30-50% reduction

• Modern replacements on vintage guitar: Significant reduction

Originality Importance

Complete Original Sets:

• Essential for maximum value

• Collector preference

• Investment grade guitars

• Show-quality examples

Partial Originality:

• Some value retention

• Must disclose replacements

• Better than full replacement set

Non-Original Tuners:

• Player-grade guitar

• Reduced collector appeal

• Lower market value

Model-Specific SEO Keywords Covered

This guide addresses identification for:

• Fender Telecaster tuners (1951-1968)

• Fender Broadcaster tuners (1951)

• Fender Esquire tuners (1951-1968)

• Fender Stratocaster tuners (1954-1968)

• Fender Jazzmaster tuners (1958-1968)

• Fender Jaguar tuners (1962-1968)

• Fender Precision Bass tuners (1951-1968)

• Fender Jazz Bass tuners (1960-1968)

• Vintage Fender tuner identification

• Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Original Fender tuners

• Pre-CBS Fender tuners

• F-stamped Fender tuners

• Single-line vs double-line Kluson

• How to date Fender by tuners

• Authentic Fender tuners

• Fender tuner replacement value

Authentication Checklist

When examining vintage Fender tuners:

Kluson Stampings:

• ☐ "KLUSON DELUXE" stamped on housing

• ☐ Single-line (pre-1958) or double-line (1958+)

• ☐ Font and placement correct for era

• ☐ Stampings clear and period-appropriate

F-Stamp Verification:

• ☐ No F-stamp if claiming pre-CBS

• ☐ F-stamp present if claiming CBS era

• ☐ F-stamp consistent with other dating features

Button Condition:

• ☐ Plastic buttons (not metal)

• ☐ Oval/tulip shape correct

• ☐ Aging appropriate for guitar age

• ☐ Color consistent across all tuners

Configuration:

• ☐ Six-in-line (guitars) or four-in-line (basses)

• ☐ Standard configuration all models

• ☐ Proper mounting footprint

Housing and Finish:

• ☐ Chrome plating appropriate for age

• ☐ Wear patterns authentic

• ☐ No modern re-chroming evidence

• ☐ Consistent patina across all tuners

Operation:

• ☐ Smooth tuning action

• ☐ No excessive play

• ☐ Quality gear feel

• ☐ Consistent across all tuners

Cross-Reference Dating:

• ☐ Serial number (use our Fender Serial Number Lookup Tool)

• ☐ Neck date stamp

• ☐ Pot codes

• ☐ All features align

When You're Ready to Sell Your Vintage Fender

How Original Tuners Affect Value

Era-Specific Premiums:

• 1951-1958 single-line Kluson: Highest premiums

• 1958-1964 double-line Kluson: Major premiums

• 1965 early pre-CBS: Strong premiums

• 1965 late F-stamped: CBS values

• 1966-1968 F-stamped: CBS values

Originality Factors:

• Complete original set: Essential for investment grade

• All six/four matching: Critical for value

• Original buttons: Important detail

• No modifications: Maximum value

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars

Our Fender Tuner Expertise:

• Pre-CBS Fender specialists

• Kluson tuner authentication

• Single-line vs. double-line identification

• F-stamp verification

• Reverse tuner configuration expertise

• Complete originality assessment

Premium Offers: 30-40% higher than guitar shops

Contact: (440) 219-3607

Service Area: Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, West Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between single-line and double-line Kluson tuners?

Single-line Kluson tuners (approximately 1951-1958) have "KLUSON DELUXE" stamped in one horizontal line, while double-line tuners (1958-1968) have "KLUSON" on top and "DELUXE" below. Single-line tuners indicate earlier production and are more collectible.

What does the F-stamp on Fender tuners mean?

The "F" stamped on tuner housings indicates CBS-era production (mid-1965 onward). It's a quality control mark introduced during CBS ownership. Pre-CBS guitars don't have F-stamps, making this a quick visual dating indicator.

Are replacement tuners a big problem for vintage Fender value?

Yes. Replaced tuners reduce value by 10-30% depending on the guitar's overall condition and collectibility. Original tuners are essential for investment-grade instruments and maximum value.

How can I tell if my Fender tuners are original Kluson?

Original Kluson tuners have proper "KLUSON DELUXE" stampings (single or double-line), age-appropriate chrome finish, correct plastic buttons, and consistent aging across all tuners. Check for period-correct details and compare to authenticated examples. Use our Fender Serial Number Lookup Tool to verify your guitar's era.

When did Fender start using F-stamped tuners?

F-stamped tuners appeared in mid-1965 following CBS's acquisition of Fender. Early 1965 guitars have no F-stamp (pre-CBS), while late 1965 onward has F-stamps (CBS era).

Do original tuners matter more on some Fender models than others?

Original tuners are critical on all vintage Fenders, but particularly important on high-value instruments like pre-CBS Stratocasters, Telecasters, and Jazzmasters. On investment-grade examples, originality is essential.

What are the most valuable original Fender tuners?

Single-line Kluson tuners from the 1950s are most valuable due to rarity and early production. Complete original sets on pre-CBS guitars (1964 or earlier) command highest premiums, especially on Stratocasters and Telecasters.

Additional Resources

• Fender Serial Number Lookup Tool - Quick reference for your Fender guitar

• Complete Fender Guitar Dating Guide

• How to Date Fender Guitars - All Models

• Fender Headstock Decal Guide

• Sell Your Fender Guitar

• Vintage Fender Authentication Guide

Understanding original Fender guitar tuners from 1951-1968 is essential for accurate authentication, dating, and valuation across all major Fender models. The evolution from single-line Kluson tuners through double-line variations to F-stamped CBS-era tuners provides critical dating indicators for Telecasters, Stratocasters, Jazzmasters, Jaguars, and Fender basses.

Whether you own a 1950s Telecaster with rare single-line Klusons, a pre-CBS Stratocaster with double-line tuners, a Jazzmaster with original Kluson tuners, or any vintage Fender, understanding tuner details ensures proper authentication and maximum value. Use our Fender Serial Number Lookup Tool to verify your guitar's era, then confirm with tuner specifications for definitive dating.

Edgewater Guitars specializes in vintage Fender authentication and purchasing throughout the Midwest. Our comprehensive knowledge of Kluson tuner evolution and period-correct details ensures accurate assessments.

Contact us today at (440) 219-3607 for expert Fender tuner authentication or professional valuation.

Gavin Coe, Vintage Guitar Specialist
Edgewater Guitars - Ohio's Premier Guitar Buyer