Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster® Dakota Red

Experience the iconic offset design and unique tone of the American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster in Dakota Red. Available at Vera Guitars in Charlotte, NC, this meticulously crafted instrument recreates the 1966 Jazzmaster - a revolutionary guitar that became the weapon of choice for surf, indie, and alternative rock players worldwide.

The Jazzmaster Legacy

Introduced in 1958 as Fender's top-of-the-line model, the Jazzmaster was designed to appeal to jazz players but found its true calling in the hands of surf guitarists in the '60s and alternative rockers in the '80s and '90s. The 1966 model represents the Jazzmaster at its peak - refined appointments, bound fingerboard, and the distinctive offset body that has become an icon of counterculture cool.

Authentic 1966 Specifications:

• Pure Vintage '65 Jazzmaster Pickups: Wide, flat single-coils delivering warm, articulate tone with enhanced bass response
• Bound Round-Lam Rosewood Fingerboard: Period-correct binding and laminated rosewood construction
• Dakota Red Finish: Iconic nitrocellulose lacquer in vibrant, eye-catching red
• Oval C Neck Profile: Comfortable vintage shape that feels broken-in from day one
• 7.25" Radius Fingerboard: Vintage radius perfect for authentic playing feel
• Vintage Frets: Traditional wire size for authentic 1960s playing experience
• Alder Body: Classic tonewood with balanced resonance and sustain
• Floating Tremolo System: Unique vibrato design with lock button for stability
• Rhythm Circuit: Separate tone controls for instant warm jazz tones
• Vintage-Style Tuners: Period-correct hardware for authentic aesthetics

Pure Vintage '65 Jazzmaster Tone

The Pure Vintage '65 Jazzmaster pickups are unlike any other Fender pickup. These wide, flat single-coils deliver a unique voice - warmer and fuller than Stratocaster pickups with enhanced bass response, yet still bright and articulate. The result is a tone that's perfect for shimmering surf chords, jangly indie rock, and everything in between. These aren't just different-looking Strat pickups - they're a completely different sonic experience.

Rhythm Circuit Innovation

The Jazzmaster's rhythm circuit is a unique feature that sets it apart from other Fenders. With the flip of a switch on the upper horn, you activate a separate set of tone controls that deliver instant warm, mellow jazz tones. This gives you two guitars in one - bright, articulate lead tones from the main circuit and smooth, warm rhythm tones from the rhythm circuit. It's a versatile feature that many players discover and fall in love with.

Dakota Red Nitrocellulose Finish

The Dakota Red nitrocellulose lacquer finish is vibrant and eye-catching - a bold, fiery red that commands attention on any stage. This classic Fender color has graced countless iconic guitars and looks stunning on the Jazzmaster's offset body. Nitro allows the wood to breathe and resonate naturally, and over time this finish will develop character and patina, aging gracefully like the vintage originals.

Offset Body Design

The Jazzmaster's offset body isn't just visually distinctive - it's ergonomically brilliant. The offset waist provides comfortable playing whether sitting or standing, and the contoured body fits naturally against your torso. Combined with the floating tremolo system and unique control layout, the Jazzmaster offers a playing experience unlike any other Fender guitar.

Bound Fingerboard

The bound round-lam rosewood fingerboard is a premium appointment that adds visual elegance and playing comfort. The binding creates a refined look while the rosewood provides warmth and smooth playability. This is a detail that separates the Jazzmaster from Fender's more utilitarian models.

Perfect For:

Whether you're a surf music enthusiast seeking authentic '60s jangle, an indie or alternative player wanting that distinctive Jazzmaster voice, a collector appreciating the offset design's iconic status, or a musician seeking something different from standard Fenders, this Dakota Red beauty delivers. Its combination of unique tone, innovative features, and counterculture cool makes it both a player's instrument and a statement piece.

Visit our Charlotte, NC showroom to experience this American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster in person and discover why it's become the guitar of choice for generations of iconoclasts. Contact us for detailed photos, sound samples, or any questions about this distinctive offset instrument.