Fender’s Dark Horse Stratocasters: Three Finishes, Japan-Only Availability
Three Dark Horse Stratocaster finishes share gold hardware and a common specification, but Japan-only purchasing routes and delivery dates differ.
Fender has unveiled a Japan-exclusive George Harrison Dark Horse Records collection, led by a Stratocaster offered in Black, Olympic White and Orange. Announced on October 16, 2026, the range celebrates Harrison’s record-label legacy rather than presenting the guitars as instruments he played.
Same specification, three distinct looks
All three versions pair Dark Horse graphics with gold hardware and an engraved neck plate. Underneath the artwork are an alder body, a maple Modern C neck and a rosewood fingerboard with a 9.5-inch radius and 22 medium-jumbo frets.
The electronics use three Player Series Alnico 5 single-coils with five-way switching. A two-point tremolo with bent-steel saddles and ClassicGear tuners complete the specification. Fender lists the guitar at ¥198,000 JPY; its Japanese announcement identifies that price as tax-inclusive.
Check the finish before planning a purchase
Fender lists the Black version through Fender Flagship Tokyo and its Japanese website. Olympic White is available for preorder through Fender dealers across Japan; Orange has a narrower preorder route through Fender’s Japanese website, Fender Flagship Tokyo and Fender Shop in Miki Gakki Americamura. Fender expects delivery of the White and Orange versions in March 2027.
That distinction matters: an October collection launch does not mean every finish is immediately available. Fender has not announced a US release in this announcement, and the Japanese price should not be treated as a US retail quote or an imported total.
Beyond the Stratocasters
The collaboration also includes a strap, picks and apparel, alongside the existing Dhani Harrison Signature Ukulele. The guitars remain the clearest draw for players: one specification, three treatments of the Dark Horse identity, and different routes to getting one.
Want to dig deeper into George Harrison’s guitars and gear? Read our full George Harrison guide.
Images: Fender. Official product photography supplied for editorial coverage of this collection.
