Fender Offset Guitars
Beginning in 1958 with the Jazzmaster, Fender Offsets are known for their unique features, sleek aesthetic, and versatile tones. Expanding their offerings with the Jaguar, Mustang, Duo Sonic, and Lead, these models combine classic looks with modern playability.
Beginning in 1958 with the Jazzmaster, Fender Offsets are known for their unique features, sleek aesthetic, and versatile tones. Expanding their offerings with the Jaguar, Mustang, Duo Sonic, and Lead, these models combine classic looks with modern playability.
Offset guitars typically feature two single coil pickups, a floating tremolo system and comfortable, slim body waists. Originally intended for Jazz, they since found favour with surf, indie and rock musicians thanks to their unique sound and aesthetic.
Each model offers something different and every offset guitar in our range has Gear4music’s three-year warranty in addition to fast delivery times.
Showing 6 of 46 products
Fender American Ultra Jazzmaster RW, Mocha Burst
Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster RW, Dark Night
Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster, 3-Color Sunburst
Fender American Pro II Jazzmaster RW, Mercury
Fender American Ultra II Meteora, Ebony Fingerboard, Texas Tea
Fender American Ultra Jazzmaster RW, Ultraburst
Introduced in the late 1950s, Fender Offset guitars began with the Jazzmaster, followed by the Jaguar in 1962. Designed with wider fretboards, shorter scales, and unique tone circuits, these guitars produced warmer, more mellow tones compared to other Fender models.
Originally aimed at jazz players, Offset guitars quickly gained popularity in surf rock for their twangy, vibrant sound. Later, they found a place in alternative and indie rock, prized for their versatility and distinctive design.
Key features include the offset waist body shape, two single-coil pickups, and a floating vibrato system, producing bright, clear tones with a distinct character. The body design also offers great comfort for extended playing. Models like the Fender Vintera II '50s Jazzmaster showcase the classic Fender Offset designs with vintage tones.
Notable Offset guitar players include Johnny Marr, Thurston Moore, and Nels Cline, all known for creatively using these guitars. Today, models like the Jazzmaster and Jaguar remain iconic instruments across various genres, cementing their place in Fender's guitar legacy.
Fender Offset FAQs
What is a Fender offset guitar?
A Fender Offset guitar has a distinct body shape with an offset waist, allowing for comfortable playing. The Jazzmaster and Jaguar are popular models known for their bright sound and unique features. They're used across various genres and have become one of Fender's most iconic shapes.
Is a Strat an offset guitar?
The Stratocaster is not an offset guitar. While they are similar, a Stratocaster has a symmetrical body shape, whereas Fender Offsets have an asymmetrical waist. Additionally, the Stratocaster has a three pickup layout where the Offsets usually only have two.
What was the first Fender offset?
The first Fender Offset was the Jazzmaster, introduced in 1958 as a high-end alternative to the Stratocaster and Telecaster. Its innovative offset waist design, dual-circuit electronics, and smooth, jazzy sound set the Jazzmaster apart.
