Fender Cease Production of Hamer Guitars Indefinitely

Fender Cease Production of Hamer GuitarsIndefinitely -

Hamer Guitars tocease production, according to a statement recently issued byFender Musical InstrumentCorporation, who took control of the company in 2007.

As the press release states:

"Fender Musical Instruments Corp/KMCMusicorp issuspending production of Hamer instruments to focus our efforts onother brands within the company's portfolio, and to continue toaddress musicians' needs by designing and building the highestquality, most sought-after instruments in theworld."

In recent weeks Fender had withdrew an IPO, citing uncertaintyin Europe and market conditions as the main reason for endingproduction.

American manufacture Hamer, which was first purchased by Kaman in1988 and then by Fender nince years later, was first founded in1973 by vintage guitar shop owners Paul Hamer,Jol Dantzig and JohnMontgomery.

Famous Hamer owners include the former twin-lead pairing ofJudas Priest (KK Downing &Glen Tipton) as well as WishboneAsh guitarist Andy Powell andJethro Tull head IanAnderson. In its heyday the Hamer brandwas also well known for its signature SteveStevens models and is generally considered as being thefirst 'boutique' electric guitar brand that specifically catered topro musicians.

The Hamer guitar range offers a wide array ofelectric guitars and basses, and, since its foundation has placedan emphasis on producing high-quality instruments with vintageaesthetics as well as creative innovations.