Here an odd Fender guitar model, a Fender Ultra FM Custom Shop Robben Ford model from 1996, one of the uncommon Fenders with a set neck instead of a bolt-on. This model is from the Fender Flame and Fender Elite series and unlike the flame and elite, the Robben model was made in the Custom Shop in the Fullerton Factory in the USA from 1994-2002.
This chronology of these odd set-neck built Fender models comprises its initial production by Fender (Japan) initially in 1984 back to USA culminating in the Ultra FM series, like the Robben Ford which production lasted till 2004.
The original solid body Esprit models were made in the early 80’s by Fender Japan exclusively. The Fender Flame was based on the same design, but was offered in a slightly larger size and body shape (flame series has slightly offset cutaways), and also comprised a chambered body. The Flame was offered as the Standard, Elite, and Ultra model. It was made only in 1984. The Fender Robben Ford model was based on the Flame models, but used different pickups and a spruce top instead of maple, and mahogany body instead of alder. Fender Esprit models were typically built with an Alder Body, chambered or solid depending on your the information source. Fender Elite models were built with a maple top. 1984 till 1986, but with differences. Fender Flame built with Mahogany body, chambered, maple top. 1984. Fender Esprit Ultra (1st issue, 1984-1986 made with a Spruce top, chambered, Alder. Fender Robben Ford Model (1st issue, 1988-1993 comprised a chambered alder body, carved spruce top. Later in the 1990s, the production moves from Japan to the USA where meanwhile Robben Ford USA Custom Shop model aka Robben Ford Ultra FM were planned and made from1994-2002 with a Mahogany body, chambered, Spruce top, Duncan pickups. No more models were issued after 2002.
My Pile of Guitars & Basses 