1993 Fender Jazz Bass Special, Gun Metal Blue (MIJ)
Year: 1993
Finish/Color: Gun Metal Blue
Made in: Japan (Made in Japan)
Factory/Plant: Fujigen Gakki
The ultimate 80s hybrid The Jazz Bass Special is a fascinating identity crisis of a bass – and I mean that in the best way possible. It features a Precision Bass body paired with a slim Jazz Bass neck, offering P-Bass ergonomics with the lightning-fast playability of a 1.5-inch Jazz nut width. This 1993 PJ-555 hails from the legendary Fujigen factory during a period when Japanese craftsmanship was arguably outclassing the world. With its sleek, pickguard-free silhouette and all-black hardware, it represents the pinnacle of the ‘Boxer Series’ evolution that defined the rock and metal stages of the time.
Did you know? While most fans associate this model with the Pearl White finish used by Duff McKagan, this specific Gun Metal Blue version is a non-catalog custom order gem. Part of a highly limited run from the mid-90s, it’s a significant departure from the standard production colors. It also features Fender’s unique TBX (Treble Bass Expander) circuit. Unlike a standard tone knob, the TBX has a center detent; turning it past 5 actually reduces resistance, adding a unique high-end ‘clang’ and presence that helped define the signature growl of 80s hard rock.
From FujiGen to Dyna Gakki, the build of these hybrids is a fascinating part of bass history. Read the Field guide to Fender Japan for a breakdown of the legendary factories and labels.
Frequently asked questions about the Fender Jazz Bass Special
Both, in a sense. The Jazz Bass Special pairs a Precision Bass body with a slim Jazz Bass neck, giving you P-Bass ergonomics and low-end weight with the fast playability of a 1.5-inch Jazz nut. Despite the “Jazz” name, its body and pickup layout owe more to the Precision side of the family.
TBX stands for Treble Bass Expander. Unlike a standard tone control, it has a center detent, and turning it past the midpoint reduces resistance to add high-end presence and a distinctive “clang” rather than only rolling treble off. That extra bite helped define the aggressive tone the model became known for.
Yes. Most examples of this model wear the familiar Pearl White finish, so this Gun Metal Blue is a non-catalog custom order from a highly limited mid-90s run, built at the Fujigen factory. That makes it a notable departure from the standard production colours.
