In 2018, Fender took a sharp left turn. Rather than chase vintage reissues or modern specs, they imagined something radically new: what if Fender’s most iconic guitar designs were fused together into entirely new hybrids? Enter the Parallel Universe series — a bold, limited‑edition run where classic guitar DNA was spliced in surprising and genre‑bending ways.
The result? Some of the most unique, collectible, and tone-flexible Fenders ever made.
A New Dimension of Design
The Parallel Universe Series wasn’t just about quirky looks — it was a statement of possibility. Fender leaned into the modular nature of its designs, blending features from Telecasters, Stratocasters, Jazzmasters, Jaguars, and even vintage 12‑strings and basses. Whether it was the Strat‑Tele Hybrid, Jazz‑Tele, or the wildly original Meteora, each model felt familiar — yet totally alien.
Every month of 2018 saw the release of a new model, and demand quickly outpaced supply.
Highlights from the First Parallel Universe Run
🎸 Strat‑Tele Hybrid
A Telecaster body with Strat contours and tremolo system, loaded with three Custom Shop ’69 Strat pickups. Looks like a Tele, plays like a Strat — sounds like both.
🎸 Jazz-Tele
Tele body, Jazzmaster pickups and tone circuits, with a surfy shimmer and unexpected warmth. A sleeper hit among indie and alt-rock players.
🎸 American Elite Telecaster HSS
Modern Tele feel with HSS versatility — ShawBucker bridge paired with classic single coils. A supercharged all-rounder.
🎸 Meteora
Brand-new offset body shape, blending futuristic curves with vintage sensibilities. Twisted Tele pickups, custom hardware, and a vibe that’s all its own.
🎸 ’51 Telecaster PJ Bass
A hybrid Precision/Jazz bass with early ’50s aesthetics and modern power. Tele-style control plate and a slab ash body made this a visual standout.
What Made the Series So Special?
- Mod Shop Mentality — Like a factory‑authorized version of what guitar tinkerers do in their garages.
- Limited Runs — Each model was produced in small batches, adding collectibility.
- Modern Meets Vintage — Many guitars combined vintage finishes or lacquer with modern neck profiles, noiseless pickups, and upgraded hardware.
- Playability — Despite their quirky looks, every guitar felt stage‑ready and purpose-built — not a gimmick.
The Legacy: Parallel Universe II and Beyond
Due to its success, Fender launched Parallel Universe Volume II in 2020 — continuing the hybridization with even bolder ideas. Standouts included the Maverick Dorado (a Bigsby‑loaded semi-hollow oddity), Strat Jazz Deluxe, and the opulent Tele Màgico.
These guitars are already developing cult status — many are hard to find, and prices on the used market have been climbing.
Why It Matters
For players and collectors alike, the Parallel Universe series represents:
✅ Freedom from tradition
✅ Factory-level mod creativity
✅ Aesthetic experimentation
✅ Real-world performance
In a market that often looks backward, this series dared to ask: What’s next for Fender?
Are They Worth Collecting?
Absolutely — but not just to put in a case. These guitars are playable art pieces. They’re made in the USA, come with top‑tier specs, and often command strong resale value. More importantly, they bring something fun and unpredictable back into Fender’s catalogue.
