1963 Fender Jaguar
The 1963 Jaguar is Fender's most complex vintage model — individual pickup switches, rhythm circuit, mute, and the 24" short scale. Initially preferred by surf players, now a staple of indie and alternative music.
Current Market Value
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Specifications
| Body Wood | Alder |
| Neck Wood | Maple |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood (curved veneer) |
| Scale Length | 24.000" |
| Frets | 22 |
| Pickup Config | SS |
| Bridge | Floating tremolo with Jaguar vibrato unit |
| Tuners | Kluson Deluxe |
| Nut Width | 1.65" |
| Finish Options | Sunburst, Custom Colors |
| Est. Production | 2,000 |
Pickups & Electronics
Two Jaguar single-coil pickups with individual on/off switches. The Jaguar has the most complex switching system of any Fender — including a separate rhythm circuit, strangle switch, and individual pickup on/off.
What Changed in 1963
First full year of the Jaguar. Fender's most feature-rich model — shorter 24" scale, individual pickup switches, mute system, and the Jaguar tremolo. More complex than the Jazzmaster.
Notable Examples
Kurt Cobain's Jaguars brought the model back into mainstream awareness. Johnny Marr, Robert Smith, and many shoegaze artists defined the Jaguar's modern identity.
Collector's Notes
The Jaguar's complex electronics are frequently modified or repaired — original complete electronics are essential. The chrome metal guard covering the switching section should be intact and original.