Fernandes Guitars, the legendary Japanese maker behind decades of affordable electrics and the famed Sustainer pickup, has filed for bankruptcy once again – but this time, the story might not end there.
Just over a year after its initial bankruptcy filing in July 2024, the Tokyo District Court has officially granted Fernandes permission to begin new bankruptcy proceedings as of July 9. The news, first confirmed by Nikkei Asia, reveals that the brand has accrued approximately 730 million yen in debt – roughly $4.9 million USD. It’s a serious blow, but in a surprising twist, there may be a glimmer of hope for Fernandes fans around the world.
Before the court granted proceedings, part of the Fernandes trademark was quietly transferred to another company. While the full details of that move haven’t yet been made public, it opens the door to a possible future for the iconic brand – whether through resurrection, acquisition, or some kind of hybrid revival.
This latest development follows months of silence from Fernandes after it withdrew its previous bankruptcy petition last year. The company has not issued any new statements since, and its official website remains offline.
The original 2024 statement was a sobering one, acknowledging “a considerable amount of debt to multiple creditors” and declaring that it had become “impossible to continue business.” That statement also confirmed that all communications regarding claims and debts would go through legal representation, leaving fans and collectors in limbo.
Founded in 1969, Fernandes carved out its niche as a staple of the affordable import guitar market, but its legacy goes far beyond price-conscious axes. The Fernandes Sustainer – a pickup system that allows for infinite note sustain – has been a game-changer for players across genres, and remains a sought-after feature for modders and boutique builders alike.
Though Fernandes ceased trading after its original bankruptcy filing, the brand’s instruments continue to enjoy cult status. Players from The Edge to Billie Joe Armstrong have wielded Fernandes guitars, lending them serious street cred that’s only grown with time.
With the trademark now partially in new hands, there’s cautious optimism that Fernandes Guitars isn’t done just yet. Whether that means a full-blown comeback, a new company carrying the torch, or something entirely unexpected, one thing’s clear: the story of Fernandes Guitars isn’t over. Stay tuned.
