CHECK THE SERIAL
Useful clue. Rarely the whole story.
THE SERIOUSLY UNSERIOUS VINTAGE GUITAR GUIDE
FIND
THE ONE.
Looks like a dating app. Actually helps you figure out when a guitar was made — and whether all its clues agree.
VINTAGE
Ruby, 61
Fullerton, CAFENDER
Original-looking solder, a few honest scars, and absolutely no interest in being refinished.
PASS = NEXT PROFILE · ♥ = SAVE THE VIBE · DATE ME = OPEN THE EVIDENCE
DATE LAB
DATE A FENDER
FIRST MOVE
RED FLAG
ONE NUMBER IS NOT A RELATIONSHIP
Serial numbers can overlap, parts get changed, and old guitars can be assembled from pieces made at different times. Cross-check.
BUILD THE DATE CASE
DATE CONFIDENCEJUST MET
Check the evidence you actually have. The more independent clues that agree, the stronger the date.
RELATIONSHIP STATUS
IT'S COMPLICATED
You need more than a serial number before introducing this guitar to your parents.
DATE ANOTHER MAKER
THE RULES OF DATING
LOOK UNDER THE HOOD
Pot codes, pickup dates, stamps and construction details can narrow the window.
MAKE THE CLUES AGREE
The strongest date is the overlap between multiple independent pieces of evidence.
DON'T FORCE IT
If the clues conflict, call it “It's Complicated” until you know more.