This is my CIJ Fender '75 reissue. I bought it in Japan in 2004 (I lived there for 7 years)
This model is one of their non export models.
The issue about some CIJ Fenders are great and some are cheap, made of basswood, etc goes like this: In the States, most of us can rate if a model is (generally perceived as) good or not by price. Usually that is dictated by the country it's made in (MIA, MIM, etc)
Fender Japan has different levels too but they're all made in Japan. The lowest line are usually basswood bodies and cheap hardware and electronics. The next line are usually ash or alder bodies and more closely styled after American vintage models. The top line are the same as the second line only with "US" pickups. The easiest way to get an idea of which line you're looking at is price. My bass was the highest line but I'm still wondering what U.S, pickups are these? They're nothing special.
Another observation I've had with the countless Fender Japan basses I've handled is that while the fit and finish, attention to detail and workmanship are usually top notch, the hardware and electronics are usually not as good as MIA Fenders. That is why my Jazz has been modded with:
BadAss II bridge
Switchcraft input jack
Dunlop strap locks
Hipshot tuners
I think that's it. I can't remember anything else.....
