Floyd Rose Tremolos for Left Hand Guitars: Original and Genuine
- Gaskell Guitars Australia
- Aug 5
- 27 min read
Updated: 1 hour ago
The following is the ultimate guide on left handed Floyd Rose tremolos: genuine, licensed, and proprietary - past and present. Nowhere else on the internet will you find all this information in one place.
This article is in four parts:
Part 1: Original and Genuine Floyd Rose (Floyd Rose, Fernandes, Schaller, Sung il, Ping Well)
Part 2: OEM Producers (Kahler, Gotoh, Takeuchi, Ping Well)
Part 3: Proprietary Versions (Schaller, Kahler, Fernandes, Ibanez, Matsumoku, Samick/Cort/WMIC, Yamaha, ESP, Jackson-Charvel, KMC)
Overview
Musician Floyd Rose invented his original guitar tremolo in 1976. In 1979, he was granted U.S. Patent No. 4,171,661 "Guitar tremolo method and apparatus" for the double-locking mechanism at both the bridge and nut.
Rose made his early double-locking guitar tremolo system out of his garage and presented them publicly at the 1981 NAMM Show. Shortly thereafter he partnered with Fernandes Electric Sound Research Group Co. Ltd. of Japan to produce further prototypes and the first production models. Fernandes used factories in Japan to manufacture the units.
Rose was introduced to Eddie Van Halen through a mutual friend and Van Halen began using Rose's products on his guitars. Other prominent American guitarists at the time began to use the "Rose tremolo" too.
Rose met executives from Kramer Guitars at the 1982 NAMM show and thereafter formed a partnership in 1983. Eddie Van Halen had also signed with Kramer earlier.
The first production tremolos made by Fernandes were fitted exclusively to Kramer guitars in the United States beginning in 1982. The bodies and necks of the guitars were built at the ESP factory in Japan and shipped to the United States for assembly. Feedback from users, particularly from Eddie Van Halen saw the unit gain fine tuners. Rose filed for a patent for the fine tuners on March 15, 1982.
With further input from Eddie Van Halen, the final design was released in 1983. In the same year the Kramer Baretta was released which quickly became Kramer's flagship model due to its association with Eddie Van Halen.
Kramer decided to use the German company Schaller to manufacture the new Floyd Rose range, which consisted of a non-fine tuner tremolo and a fine tuner tremolo, and used the local company Hansen Metalworks to do an interim run of 800 units during the six months it took for Schaller to get ready for production. Fernandes continued to produce Floyd Rose tremolos for the Japanese market.
The "locking tremolo" concept spread quickly throughout the Music industry which led to other parts distributors and guitar brands making their own copies. To safeguard his patent rights, Rose devised an innovative strategy to grant sub-licenses to interested manufacturers, allowing them to produce their own units or OEM units for other guitar brands that wished to utilize them. Authorized manufacturers would have to display a licensing statement on their products to validate their authenticity and to differentiate them from the genuine originals.
The contract between Rose and Fernandes ended in 1985, leaving Schaller to produce all original models thereafter. The Schaller originals continued to be marketed and distributed exclusively by Kramer.
Floyd Rose filed for a further patent for Fine Tuners on February 4, 1985, for which he was awarded U.S. Patent No. 4,549,461 on October 29, 1985. On February 5, 1985, the patent applied for in 1982 for the Fine Tuners was awarded as U.S. Patent No. 4,497,236.
Kramer went bankrupt in 1991, and Rose partnered with Fender USA, which became the exclusive distributor for all Floyd Rose products.
Rose applied for a worldwide design patent for "Fine Tuning Tremolo Bridge Unit for a Guitar" in 1989, which was awarded to him in 1992 as USD324693S.
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SD324693S
From 2005 distribution returned to Floyd Rose. Under Floyd Rose's control, Schaller remained the exclusive producer of the Original Floyd Rose tremolos. AP International Music Supply in the United States is the current distributor of Floyd Rose original products.
Guitar brands that adopted the Floyd Rose systems include Aria Pro II, B.C. Rich, Carvin, Charvel, Epiphone, ESP, EVH, Fender, Fernandes, Framus, Gaskell, Gibson, Hamer, Ibanez, Jackson, Kramer, Music Man, Peavey, Samick, Schecter, Tokai, Tom Anderson, Vester, Washburn, Westone, and Yamaha.
Schaller produced the Original Floyd Rose OEM systems for various guitar brands up until the early 2000s after which original OEM production went fully to Korea.
Early OEM manufacturers of well-known licensed Floyd Rose tremolos were Takeuchi, Gotoh, Kahler, Jin Ah, and Ping Well. These companies manufactured units under OEM arrangements for multiple guitar brands. Licensed units were most often stamped "Licensed Under Floyd Rose Patents" on the base plate or tail.
Takeuchi of Japan manufactured licensed Floyd Rose tremolos for Ibanez, Jackson, Charvel, Yamaha, Fernandes, Aria Pro II, and Washburn, among others until the 2000s. Unbranded kits could also be bought by the general public. The Takeuchi TRS-101 licensed tremolo is the most copied non-genuine tremolo in the world.
Gotoh of Japan produced their own licensed proprietary tremolo as a direct replacement for an Original Floyd Rose and supplied theirs as OEM units to Aria Pro II, B.C Rich, Music Man, Peavey, and Fernandes from 1986. Theirs is still a popular choice for custom builders and individuals wanting to upgrade.
Kahler made several proprietary models during the 1980s and 1990s combining Floyd Rose and Kahler patents. These were supplied as OEM units for such brands as Carvin and B.C Rich. Kahler left the industry in the early 1990s but returned in 2005 and is now most famous for its own guitar bridges and tremolos. They also reintroduced fulcrum-based tremolos with engineering upgrades in 2024.
Ping Well in Taiwan produced genuine Floyd Rose systems as well as OEM and proprietary systems for guitar brands such as Fender, Jackson, Peavey and Fernandes.
Jin Ah was a Korean company that produced OEM licensed Floyd Rose and proprietary systems for many guitar brands that had Korean production lines in the 1980s and 1990s. Samick, Cort, and World Musical Instrument Co built guitars for Fernandes, B.C Rich, Aria Pro II, Charvette by Charvel, Washburn, Westone, Marlin, Hohner, Hondo, Vester, Epiphone, Vantage, and Dean Guitars using Jin Ah products.
Fernandes, Ibanez, Yamaha, Aria, Tokai, Westone, and ESP went on to produce proprietary versions of Floyd Rose-style systems for their own guitar brands. Often, they used hardware from the same factories with just different branding for the same parts. Schaller also produced an exclusive system with fine tuners for Fender Japan.
ESP produced their early "Magician" Original Floyd Rose clone and then licensed "ESP Synclear Tremolo" with proprietary modifications for their Japanese-made guitars during the 1980s and 1990s.
Yamaha produced their licensed and proprietary "Rocking Magic" series of tremolos until the early 2000s. These units featured unique and innovative engineering, culminating in the "Yamaha Finger Clamp Tremolo System" in 2007.
Fernandes further developed the original Floyd Rose units that they supplied to Floyd Rose and Kramer to become the Fernandes proprietary "Head Crasher," then "FRT" Tremolo Systems until 1997. These were initially made by Gotoh in Japan and then by Korean factories when Fernandes guitar production moved from Japan to Korea in the late 1980s.
Ibanez developed its own proprietary systems during the 1980s using Gotoh and Takeuchi to manufacture the first models and then went on to further engineer and develop their own systems which they use to this day. Modern Ibanez tremolo systems are made in China.
Aria Pro II used several unique tremolos, such as the "ACT-3" which was made initially by Gotoh in Japan and then by Jin Ah of Korea after Japanese production ended in 1987. This same unit was also used by Washburn. Samick built both brands.
Tokai produced a range of tremolo systems using Floyd Rose technologies as the "Ayers Rocker" series during the 1980s. These were exclusive to Tokai.
Westone is famous for its "Bendmaster" range of proprietary tremolos which were developed inhouse when Westone guitars were being built in Japan by Matsumoku and subsequently in Korea by Samick. The Bendmaster range were manufactured by Jin Ah and were adopted by other guitar brands such as Aria Pro II, B.C. Rich, Charvel, Epiphone, Hondo, Marlin, Samick, and Vantage.
Schaller made the licensed "Blade Shooter" tremolo system exclusively for Fender Japan during the 1980s. There were eventually three versions, known outside Japan as "System I", "System II", and "System III."
The main Floyd Rose patent expired in 2003 after which licensing was no longer necessary. This led to a slew of Asian manufacturers making copies of varying quality. By 2008, all the original patents had expired.
In the early days of mass manufacturing in China, factories imported their musical instrument hardware from Korea. China did not start manufacturing their own hardware until the late 2000s. To combat the flood of cheap copies from China, Floyd Rose released the "Floyd Rose Special" in 2008. Like the current OEM 1000 Series, this unit is also made in Korea but uses cheaper materials than the German and Korean originals, while maintaining the excellence you would expect from a genuine Floyd Rose product.
The following information is the definitive guide on Floyd Rose tremolos (and variants) for left-handed guitars.
I will get this out of the way first: I am a big fan of Floyd Rose tremolos. I owned an original lefty Kramer back in the 1980s. I am very familiar with each of the OFR, Schaller and Gotoh tremolos. I also like the modern Ibanez systems. I also like Kahler tremolos too.
If you are keen on upgrading your lefty guitar with a better-quality tremolo or replacing the one you have, then here are your choices:
Floyd Rose Original Tremolo System
(Made in Germany, 1983 - 2025)
Status: Phased out
The first production Floyd Rose tremolos were made in Japan by Fernandes Electric Sound Research Group Co. Ltd. from 1982, with the final double-locking design with fine tuners, designated FRT-5, made from 1983. The very first FRT-5s were manufactured by Hansen Metalworks in the United States, which did an interim run of 800 units while Schaller was getting ready for production. The final "whale tail" design was designated "FRT-5" by Fernandes. In the USA, it was referred to simply as the "Floyd Rose Tremolo System." Kramer was the exclusive worldwide distributor. Parts and complete units were shipped to the United States for exclusive assembly by Kramer.
The double-locking tremolo with fine tuners first appeared in the 1983 Kramer catalog and was first featured on guitars in the Pacer, Voyager, and Vanguard series, and then on the new Baretta, released later in 1983. The non-fine tuner tremolo was also used on some Kramer models including the very early Korean-made Striker Series.
Schaller became sole manufacturer of Original Floyd Rose tremolos from 1985. All products were made in Germany. They were originally etched with "Floyd Rose" on the base plate until about 1987 after which they were embossed with "Floyd Rose Original" thereafter.
By 1987, Kramer was using ESP exclusively for manufacturing its necks and bodies across the American Series, Focus Series, and Signature lines.
Kramer did make left hand versions of their U.S-assembled Pacer, Baretta, and "E.E" Pro I Series (1987-1988), as well as their Japanese-made Focus 1000 Series (1986-1987) with German Original Floyd Rose tremolos.
All Floyd Rose products continued to be marketed and distributed exclusively by Kramer until their collapse in 1990. Fender USA became international distributor until 2005. AP International is the current distributor.
The modern double-locking Original Floyd Rose tremolo is designated the "100 Series" and is almost unchanged from the original Fernandes/Schaller 1983 FRT-5 production model. The modern unit is made of high-quality hardened steel and the sustain block is made of nickel-plated brass. Saddles are CNC-machined hardened steel. The left handed product code is "FRT-100L."
While the German-made tremolo has been the flagship Original Floyd Rose model for over 40 years, in the last few years there has been an increase of negative public opinion about quality and consistency.
Lefty versions used to be available in chrome, satin chrome, black, gold, black nickel, vintage copper, and satin pearl, but as of late 2025, black, black nickel, and vintage copper have so far been deleted as the Schaller versions become phased out.
Floyd Rose USA Series Original Tremolo
(Made in USA, 2025 - present)
Status: Current
From 2025, Floyd Rose production has been brought back to the United States at their new state-of-the-art CNC and 3D printing facility in North Carolina. This was first announced at the March 2025 NAMM show. By transitioning to in-house production, Floyd Rose gains direct oversight of every aspect of the manufacturing process, making it easier to implement design updates, fine-tune quality control, and ensure highest production standards. In a 2025 statement President Andrew Papiccio said:
“Our process ensures tighter specifications and enhanced quality,” he says. By keeping production local, Floyd Rose maintains rigorous standards and supports American craftsmanship."
The 100 series has always been Floyd Rose's flagship model and the new USA-made unit is now the "USA Series Original Tremolo." It is made of high-quality hardened steel and the sustain block is made of nickel-plated brass. Saddles are precision CNC manufactured and come in multiple radius options, eliminating the need for individual saddle shims. Alongside the traditional 12” radius, Floyd Rose Original Saddles are now available in 10”, 14”, 16”, and 17” radii. Locking nuts are 3D printed. The base is stamped "Floyd Rose Original" at the top.
NOTE: It is not clear if, or when, lefty versions of the USA Series are being produced. According to the Floyd Rose website, it looks like leftover stock of German products are still being sold off.
I am an authorized Australian dealer of Original Floyd Rose products and you can buy from me directly. Click here.
Floyd Rose Original Non-Fine-Tuner Tremolo
(1983 - 1986, 2015 - present)
Status: Current
Floyd Rose's original tremolo system did not have fine tuners. It was initially built by Rose himself and Fernandes of Japan from 1982. Sometimes Rose used a mix of USA and Japanese parts for his own builds. The initial model number according to Fernandes was "FRT-1." After a quick redesign of the saddles, it became the "FRT-3," which was sold from the second half of 1982. The ones made by Floyd personally have a sticker on the block that says "ROSE Tremolo Pat # 4,171,661 USA."
The FRT-3 was the first production model to be engraved with "Floyd Rose" branding on the upper base plate. In the USA it was marketed officially as the "Floyd Rose Tremolo System."
After partnering with Kramer in 1983, Kramer brought in Schaller to take over manufacturing from Fernandes, and from late 1983 Schaller produced both the FRT-3 non-fine-tuner tremolo and new FRT-5 fine-tuner tremolo (today's 100 Series) thereafter. The German FRT-3 non-fine-tuner tremolo has "Floyd Rose" etched on the base plate with "MADE IN GERMANY" on the underside, next to the tremolo arm hole. Fernandes continued to produce the FRT-3 in Japan but only for the Japanese domestic market. (See following.)
The German FRT-3 was used on the Kramer Striker Series from 1983 until 1986. There were left handed models, such as this 1985 left handed Striker 300ST. The non-fine tuner tremolo was discontinued in 1986.
After an absence of 25 years, Floyd Rose re-released this tremolo in 2015 following revived interest in it, particularly because of guitarists Guthrie Govan, Brad Gillis, and Yngwie Malmsteen. Today it is called the "non fine tuner" tremolo. The reissued model was made by Schaller and was not available left-handed. I mention this here in the hope that, with Floyd Rose's operations now based in the USA, they will be able to produce a left-handed version as well. I'm waiting to hear back from AP International about this.
Floyd Rose II single-locking
(1986-1987)
Status: Obsolete
In 1986, Floyd Rose released the "Floyd Rose II" tremolo, which was made of cast iron. It is a single-locking system where the strings are fed through horizontal tubes at the rear and do not require ball ends to be cut off. It only locks at the neck. It has fine tuners. This was a genuine Floyd Rose product, made by Schaller in Germany for Kramer guitars made in Korea. It is almost identical to the Fernandes "Head Crasher FRT-6," which Fernandes released two years earlier. (See Part 3.)
It was cast with "Floyd Rose II" at the top of the base plate and "Made In Germany by Schaller" at the bottom of the base plate. It had a very rough "orange peel" finish.
The Floyd Rose II was used on the 1986 - 1987 Kramer Striker Series made in Korea, while U.S-assembled Kramers and Japanese Focus Series continued to be built with the Original Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo. The Striker Series were available in left hand, such as this 1986 left-handed Kramer Striker 600ST.
Floyd Rose II double-locking
(1988 - 2000)
Status: Obsolete
From 1988, the Floyd Rose II name was reapplied to a cast-iron version of the double-locking Original Floyd Rose, for import models. This unit was also made by Schaller in Germany. The knife edges had replaceable inserts. It had "Floyd Rose II" cast into the top of the base plate. As with the single-locking version, it has a very rough "orange peel" finish. This was a genuine Floyd Rose product.
The double-locking Floyd Rose II first appeared on the 1988-1989 Kramer Striker "100-Series" made in Korea. The Striker Series continued to be made available in left hand such as this left-handed Kramer Striker ST100 and this left-handed Kramer Striker ST605, and this 1988 lefty Kramer Striker ST600. It was also used on the 1989 Japan-only ESP Kramer TK Series which do not appear to have been available in left hand.
1989 was the last year of original Kramer guitars as the company went bankrupt in 1990.
I am not sure what other guitar brands other than Kramer, if any, produced left handed guitars with the stock double-locking Floyd Rose II, however OEM branded versions were common. See following.
From my research it seems the Floyd Rose II may have been dropped around 2000.
OEM supply
Floyd Rose offered both the single locking and double locking Floyd Rose II tremolos as branded OEM versions and these were adopted by Jackson, Carvin, Charvel, ESP, Hamer, Gibson, Music Man, Peavey, and Washburn for some of their production guitars through to the 1990s. These OEM models retained the "orange peel" finish of the stock Floyd Rose II.
OEM units were embossed on the face of the upper base plate with the guitar brand name and embossed on the lower face of the base plate with "Made in Germany by Schaller." The tail had "Licensed Under Floyd Rose Patents" embossed with a border around the statement. Two U.S patent numbers were engraved in the block.
For Jackson the string-through version was model "JT-570" and the double-locking version was "JT-590." For Charvel the latter was the "FLC-202." They had "Jackson" or "Charvel" embossed on the top side of the base plate. No left handed guitars were produced with the JT-570. The JT-590 was used on the lefty Grover Jackson RR/L D-144. The identical FLC-202 was used on the 1989-1991 Japan-only, lefty Charvel 475 Deluxe and the 1990-1991 Japan-only lefty Charvel DK-095-SSHL.
Carvin switched from Kahler tremolos to the double locking OEM tremolo in 1990. It was listed in Carvin catalogs as the "FC3" from 1990-1993. All Carvin guitars were offered left handed. OEM Floyd Rose-equipped Carvin guitars included the BC130 (1990 only), DC125, DC127, DC135, DC145, LS175 (1991 only), DC200, DC300, DC400, X220, and the long-running Ultra V. From 1994 Carvin switched to Wilkinson tremolos with Original Floyd Rose as an option.
The Schaller double-locking OEM unit was used on many Hamer guitars such as this 1989 left handed Hamer Californian Elite Custom Shop, this 1990 left handed Hamer USA Californian and this 1993 left-handed Hamer E4TE Californian. It was stamped "Hamer" on the opposite side of the "Made in Germany by Schaller" inscription.
French guitar brand Lâg used an OEM version of the Schaller double-locking Floyd Rose II for their guitars during the 1980s including this left handed Lâg Roxane FR model.
ESP, Gibson, Music Man, Peavey, and Washburn at that time either did not make left-handed guitars at all, or did not make left-handed guitars with this branded version of the Floyd Rose II, but did so for some of their right-handed guitars.
Floyd Rose 1000 Series Original Style Tremolo System
Status: Current
On lower-cost guitars fitted with a genuine Floyd Rose tremolo, the unit was not made in Germany but made in Korea. Some Korean OEM production had been occurring since the 1980s for non-U.S guitar models but it was initially Schaller producing both the originals and OEM models for guitar brands while other manufacturers were producing licensed versions.
Since about 2010 OEM versions of the Original Floyd Rose systems have been made in Korea. Many years ago I identified Sung-il Hightech Co Ltd as one of the manufacturers but I was told by AP International in 2025 that Sung-il has not worked with Floyd Rose for 10 years. These OEM models were designated the "1000-Series" until 2020 after which they underwent a name change to "1000 Series Original Style Tremolo System."
The product description on the Floyd Rose website used to say:
"The 1000 Series Original is the Korean-made version of the Original Tremolo, made to the same specifications and materials, but is available only to guitar manufacturers and cannot be purchased aftermarket..."
Because it is a Floyd Rose genuine product, as with the earlier OEM Floyd Rose II, it does not have or need a "Licensed Under Floyd Rose Patents" statement. The 1000-Series is simply stamped with "Floyd Rose" on the base with only one exception: EVH guitars that use the 1000-Series have "EVH Floyd Rose" stamped on the base plate, apparently the result of a special arrangement between Floyd Rose and Eddie Van Halen. See the current left handed EVH Striped Series (Red with Black and White Stripes), the EVH left handed 5150 Series Standard, the EVH Wolfgang USA Left Hand, and the EVH left handed Wolfgang Special. This left handed 2012 Fender EVH Wolfgang Standard is an early example of the EVH-branded 1000L. The left handed EVH 1000 Series was even advertised on the Floyd Rose website alongside the 1000 Series Original during the 2010s.
1000-Series units have the "FR" logo and the website address stamped on the block. The lefty chrome version is the "FRT-01000L", the black is the "FRT-02000L" and gold is the "FRT-03000L."
Prior to the release of the Floyd Rose Special, 1000-Series units were sometimes branded. An example is this 2016 lefty ESP LTD MH-103 QM. In 2023 AP International told me that this is no longer the practice.
Floyd Rose Special Tremolo System
Status: Current
The Floyd Rose "Special" was introduced in 2008, originally made in Korea exclusively for Floyd Rose. It was a brilliant marketing decision to combat the flood of cheap Chinese Floyd Rose copies that were starting to come onto the market during the 2000s, and to undercut the cheaper but still high-quality licensed OFR alternatives like the Takeuchi TRS-101 and Gotoh GE1996T. Takeuchi coincidentally went out of business two years later.
The Floyd Rose Special is exactly the same as the Korean-made OEM 1000 Series but uses zinc alloy saddles in place of steel and a zinc alloy sustain block in place of brass. It is branded "Floyd Rose Special" on the baseplate and has the "FR" logo on the block. There is a "W" stamped on the underside of the base plate. Does any reader know what the W stands for?
The Floyd Rose Special (and 1000 Series) used to be manufactured by Sung il and Ping Well in Korea until the late 2010s. Current versions are made in China.
Unlike the OEM-only 1000 Series, the Special is available to the public and can be bought direct from Floyd Rose or from a reseller. Unfortunately, lefty versions weren't made available until 2020. The "S1000L" model is the lefty chrome version, the "S2000L" model is black, and the "S3000L" is the gold model.
The Special is the usual Floyd Rose tremolo for entry-to-mid-level guitars produced by most, if not all, international guitar brands today. AP International offers the option to stamp the Special. The standard stamping format is "[brand] by Floyd Rose." Jackson's current left handed JS32L Randy Rhoads made in China is an example.
NOTE: From 2021, there was a left-handed 7-string Floyd Rose Special, model FRTSSS1000L, but as of 2025 they are sold out according to the Floyd Rose website. The 7-string lefty was available in chrome, black, black nickel, and gold. Guitars that have the lefty 7 string Special are the Dean USA Limited Edition Rusty Cooley Signature RC7, the Schecter Jeff Loomis JL-7, the Sawtooth Americana Heritage HM724, and this Agile Interceptor Pro 725 EB DNC. Discontinued lefty models include this Washburn PXSOLAR170CLH Ola Englund Parallaxe Solar 7-String.
Floyd Rose 1500 Series
Status: Current
As stated on the Floyd Rose official website:
"The 1500 Series Tremolo is the upgraded version of the 1000 Series Tremolo with stainless steel screws and a Push-In tremolo arm. The bridge plate, saddles, insert blocks, studs & inserts, and locking nut retain those of the 1000 Series. Like the 1000 Series, the 1500 Series is only available to guitar manufacturers and is not available for aftermarket purchase.
You can upgrade your existing 1000 Series with these parts to make a 1500 Series:
• Push-In Tremolo Arm
• Stainless Steel Screws
The 1500 Series Original can be found in both 6 & 7 string versions."
Schecter and Charvel produce guitars with the 1500 Series.
If you are a lefty and want this for your guitar it has to be a D.I.Y. job.
I offer this upgrade service for left-handed Original Floyd Rose and Floyd Rose Specials. I also do Titanium upgrades. Contact me at gaskellguitars@mail.com if you want an upgraded Floyd Rose tremolo, if you do not want to do it yourself. I can supply the unit (while stocks last) or you can supply your own. Fees for the parts and work apply.
Fernandes 1981 - 1985 (Floyd Rose contract)
Fernandes Electric Sound Research Group Co. Ltd. of Japan was the original producer of Floyd Rose tremolos including the prototypes and first production models.
Fernandes is not a manufacturer themselves but used multiple Japanese factories to manufacture for them. They began marketing guitars in 1969 under the "Fernandes" and "Burny" brands, eventually also selling electronics, parts, and accessories. Gotoh was their official supplier of metal parts.
During the 1980s Fernandes guitars were built mainly by Kawai, with some models built by Tokai, FujiGen, and Matsumoku. After Matsumoku closed its doors in 1987, Japanese production went to Dyna Gakki. See here for Fernandes' venture into proprietary tremolo systems following the Floyd Rose contract.
In all the years since, it has never been made public as to who Fernandes used for the Floyd Rose contract other than "a factory in Kyoto." However, a few telltale signs that keep coming up since I researched all of this has convinced me almost 100% that it was Gotoh, at least until Fernandes shifted production of their guitars from Japan to Korea. Four facts are:
1) Gotoh was the metal parts supplier for Fernandes,
2) Gotoh was the metal parts supplier for ESP,
3) ESP made the guitar necks and bodies for Kramer and eventually whole guitars,
4) Gotoh made Fernandes Floyd Rose clones for ESP Kramers during Kramer's bankruptcy.
NOTE: With the exception of the 1983 catalog, Fernandes catalogs during the Floyd Rose contract (1982-1985) never showed pictures of left-handed models.
Floyd Rose FRT-1
(1981-1982)
Status: Superseded
The first Floyd Rose tremolo manufactured through Fernandes was the one Floyd Rose had been manufacturing himself and selling directly since 1978. This early unit had the locking saddles but no fine tuners. Rose presented his first unit publicly at the 1981 NAMM Show where Rose and representatives of Fernandes first met. Fernandes began manufacturing it for Floyd Rose at the end of 1981, and it appeared in Fernandes' own catalogs in 1982 as the "FRT-1." It was featured on the FST-120H, ST-160, EX-145, FV-135, and ST-130 models for 1982; and on the ST-135VH Eddie Van Halen and LG-135NS Neil Schon "Musician's Limited Series."
The FRT-1 was advertised in the 1982 catalog as being available right-handed and left-handed. The catalog includes a brief note about left-handed availability at the end, but it does not specify which models were eligible:
3 サウスポーギター 入荷は随時行なっていませんので、季節によっては通常のない場合があります。 特にオーダーする場合は、約3ヶ月〜4ヶ月の納期が掛かっています。 製作は本格的なカスタム品となっています。 注）右記の場合は、パーツの指定とは違うパーツとなる事もありますので、あらかじめご了承ください。
3. Left-Handed Guitars: These guitars are not regularly produced, so sometimes they may not be available. If you place a custom order, the estimated production time is approximately 3 to 4 months. Manufacturing is handled as a fully custom build. Note: In such cases, the parts used may differ from those originally specified. Please understand this in advance.
Floyd Rose FRT-3
(1983-1985)
Status: Discontinued
After a quick redesign of the saddles, the FRT-1 became the "FRT-3," released only 6 months later. The FRT-3 was the first production model to be engraved with "Floyd Rose" branding on the upper base plate.
The FRT-3 first appeared in the 1983 Fernandes catalog as a Floyd Rose product. It was used on the 1983 Fernandes FST-115, FST-120H, ST-120, and ST-160 Superstrats, and the FV-135 Flying V, and EX-145 Explorer models from the main catalog, and on the ST-105BG Brad Gillis, ST-145SL Steve Lukather, and ST-135VH (replica) Eddie Van Halen "Bumble Bee" Signature models. The German FRT-3 was meanwhile used on Kramer guitars in the United States.
In Volume 1 of the 1983 Fernandes catalog, page 38 lists a few standard guitars that could be ordered left-handed, but none with Floyd Rose or Fernandes' tremolo systems. Yet, page 10 shows a blueburst left-handed EX-145 (Explorer) with a Floyd Rose FRT-3.
Left-handed availability appears in a few places in the later 1983 catalog, such as in the appendix on Page 38 where it says:
（5）左利き用モデルについて・一部の製品には左利き用モデルがあります。・在庫状況や納期については販売店にご確認ください。・左利き用モデルには追加料金がかかる場合があります。
Translated: (5) About Left-Handed Models: Left-handed models are available for some products. Please check the availability and delivery time with your dealer. Additional charges may apply for left-handed models.
For 1984, the FRT-3 was featured on the Fernandes FST-85, FST-80, and FST-115 Superstrat models, the BSV-90, EX-100, and EX-145 Explorer models, two Brad Gillis Signature models ST-155BG and ST-105BG, a Steve Lukather (replica) Signature ST-145SL, a Mick Jones (replica) Signature ML-120MJ, and a Neil Schon (replica) Signature LG-135NS. Of these, only the 1984 Fernandes FST-85, and FST-80 were available for left-handed ordering.
For 1985, the FRT-3 was featured only on the FST-75 Superstrat and JS-100 Randy Rhoads V from the main catalog, but was also featured on four Brad Gillis Signature models and a Vinnie Vincent (replica) Signature model. None could be ordered left-handed.
Floyd Rose FRT-4
(1982)
Status: Obsolete
With the addition of vertical fine tuners as recommended by Eddie Van Halen, the FRT-3 became the "FRT-4," also released in 1982. It was achieved by folding the rear of the base plate vertically and positioning the fine tuner knobs along the raised rear of the bridge. Rose gave several prototypes to prominent artists for testing such as Eddie Van Halen, Brad Gillis, Steve Lukather, and K.K Dowling.
The FRT-4 was produced by Fernandes in Japan in 1982 as a genuine Floyd Rose product and was featured in the March 1983 Fernandes catalog alongside the FRT-3, and Fernandes' own proprietary "Head Banker" tremolo. The Fernandes FRT-4 was embossed with "Floyd Rose" inside a rectangular border on the upper base plate. In the catalog it was advertised as being used on the Fernandes "The Function" Series FST-155 and FST-135 Superstrats. However, by the time the catalog was printed the FRT-4 was obsolete.
The FRT-4 was only produced for 4 months and never made it into production in the United States due to complaints from its most prominent user, Eddie Van Halen. After trialling it on Van Halen's 1982 "Diver Down" tour, Van Halen commented that the location of the fine tuners interfered with his playing.
Floyd Rose FRT-5 / FRT-7
(1983-1985)
Status: Obsolete
Eddie Van Halen's feedback about the fine tuners getting in the way contributed to the FRT-4 gaining a "tail" to relocate the fine tuners. This was achieved by lengthening and bending the base plate back at an angle to get the fine tuners further back. This new "whale tail" version, released in 1983, became the final production double-locking Floyd Rose tremolo system that we know today as the "Floyd Rose Original Tremolo System." Fernandes named it "FRT-5" as the successor to the FRT-4.
After the initial production run by Hansen Metalworks in the United States, Fernandes was joined by Schaller at the end of the year to manufacture the Floyd Rose FRT-3 non-fine tuner and new Floyd Rose FRT-5 fine-tuner final production model through 1984 and 1985. The Japanese products were made of bent steel. The German products were cast.
Both are etched with "Floyd Rose" at the top of the base plate. The Fernandes blocks have a sticker that says "Floyd Rose TREMOLO SYSTEM PAT.4,171,661." The German units have "Made in Germany" embossed under the base plate and a "Made in W. Germany" sticker on the block. Two notable differences are:
The German version uses Imperial measurements, the Japanese versions are Metric,
The arches between where the forks meet the tail are oval on the Fernandes and square on the Schaller.
A later edition of the 1983 Fernandes catalog states on Page 42: FRT‑3 / FRT‑5 は左右どちらでも対応可能。Translated: FRT‑3 / FRT‑5 can be provided for either right or left hand.
The FRT-5 first appeared officially in the 1984 Fernandes catalog. It was featured on the 1984 FST-155 and FST-135 Superstrats, and BSV-135 Flying V.
Left-handed availability for 1984
Page 46 of the 1984 Fernandes catalog identifies the guitar models from the list that are available left-handed and includes a more detailed disclaimer regarding the ordering process for left-handed guitars:
① サウスポーギター
左用は弦の配置が逆になるため、製造工程が異なり、価格が高くなる場合があります。 ユーザーのご要望に応じて製作する場合、約3ヶ月～4ヶ月の納期がかかることもあります。 価格は本体価格の20％アップとなります。
① Left-Handed Guitars
Left-handed models require a reversed string layout, which alters the manufacturing process and may result in higher production costs. When made to order based on customer requests, production typically requires 3 to 4 months, and pricing is 20% higher than the standard model.
ご用命の際は、パーツの取り寄せや工場出荷のスケジュールを社内で調整いたしますので、あらかじめご了承ください。
Please note that parts procurement and factory scheduling are coordinated internally, so we ask for your understanding regarding potential delays.
サウスポーモデルの納期は、約3ヶ月～4ヶ月が基本となっております。
Left-handed versions of standard models typically require a lead time of approximately 3 to 4 months.
また、特注品となるため、納期は4ヶ月～5ヶ月が基本となります。 工場出荷のスケジュールや部品の取り寄せ状況により、納期は4ヶ月～5ヶ月が基本となります。 価格は20％アップになります。
For fully custom-built left-handed instruments, the typical delivery time may extend up to 4 to 5 months. This longer timeframe accounts for factory scheduling and the availability of specialized components. Pricing remains 20% above the base model.
The Fernandes FST-85, FST-80, and FST-65 are listed in the 1984 catalog as being available left-handed by special order, but only with the FRT-3 or the Fernandes FRT-2 Head Banker; none with the FRT-5.
In the 1985 Fernandes catalog, both the German version and Japanese version were advertised. The German version was marketed as the "Floyd Rose FRT-5," and the Japanese version was marketed as the "Floyd Rose FRT-7." Fernandes sold both as kits to the Japanese domestic retail market but used only theirs for their own guitars.
The Fernandes FRT-7 was advertised in the 1985 catalog on the FST-85, FST-90, and FST-55 Superstrats, and the BSV-70 and BSV-90 Flying Vs.
Left handed availability for 1985
Referring to the model list in the appendix information on Page 49 of the 1985 Fernandes catalog, point 3 states:
③ サウスポーギターについて
● 印のもの ロット生産していますが常時生産しておりませんので、詳細によっては在庫がない場合があります。その場合には、約3ヶ月〜6ヶ月の納期が必要となります。尚、価格は、本体価格の20%アップにしています。
▲ 印のもの ロット生産していませんが、特注で単価は高くなりますが、納期は約3ヶ月〜6ヶ月以内で上の納期内で対応します。
尚、価格は、本体価格の20%アップにしています。
× 印のものは、オーダーを受付けていません。
無印のもののオーダーを受付けておりますが、特殊な治具が必要となる場合はその価格及び納期は、部品によって異なりますのでご注文依頼時に確認願います。
③ About Left-Handed Guitars
Items marked with ●: These are produced in batches but not continuously. Depending on the timing, some items may be out of stock. In such cases, the delivery time is approximately 3 to 6 months, and the price will be 20% higher than standard.
Items marked with ▲: These are not batch-produced, but orders are accepted.
Items marked with × : Orders are not accepted for these items.
Orders for unmarked items are accepted, but if special jigs are required, pricing and delivery time will vary depending on the components involved—please confirm at the time of order request.
The specific left-handed guitar models "produced in batches" as above for 1985 were the FST-65 (with Head Crasher) and BSV-60 (with Head Banker.) The specific left-handed guitar models "not batch-produced, but orders are accepted" for 1985 were the FST-75 (with FRT-3), FST-85 (with FRT-7), FST-90 (with FRT-7), BSV-90 (with FRT-7), and BSV-70 (with Head Crasher.)
Left hand examples include this 1985 left handed FST-85L and this 1985 left-handed BSV-70.
End of contract
Sometime in 1985, the contract between Fernandes and Floyd Rose ended, and Schaller thereafter became the exclusive manufacturer of the non-fine tuner and fine-tuner Floyd Rose systems. Fernandes' response was to rebrand their product range as the "Head Crasher Tremolo System" and continue to develop and manufacture their range of tremolos exclusively for the Japanese domestic market. The company closed its doors in July 2024.
See here for Fernandes' venture into proprietary tremolo systems post Floyd Rose: Floyd Rose Tremolos for left hand guitars: Proprietary Versions
Ping Well 1987 - 2008
Ping Well Industrial Co. Ltd. located in Taiwan was one of Floyd Rose's official producers of genuine and OEM Floyd Rose tremolos. They also have their own patents for guitar tuners and locking tuners. The following information is about Ping Well's genuine Floyd Rose products that were available left handed. For Ping Well's licensed OEM products, such as the Jackson JT-6 and Fernandes FRT-11, see here: Floyd Rose Tremolos for left hand guitars: OEM Producers
Genuine Floyd Rose tremolo
Status: Discontinued
During the 2000s, Ping Well manufactured a double locking tremolo for Floyd Rose. It was identical in every way to the Original Floyd Rose but with a solid, "non-plated" brass block and arm bushing. Apparently, it was produced under the strict supervision of Floyd Rose directly, to supplement Schaller production. There is very little information about this.
This Ping Well unit was the only Floyd Rose system other than the German-made OFR at that time that was permitted to be branded simply as "Floyd Rose." The unit had "Floyd Rose" laser etched on the upper base with the "PW" logo on the lower base. The tail was laser etched with "LICENSED UNDER FLOYD ROSE PATENTS" (all in capitals) in white lettering. The block was etched with the block size and sometimes the '236 and '661 patents. It was used on the Gibson Les Paul Axcess Series, introduced in 2009. Note, the unit supplied to Gibson has "Floyd Rose" in a cursive font on the base plate.
It was available as an aftermarket kit through distributors such as Axcessories (www.axcessories.com) and was only US$30 less than an Original Floyd Rose. These could still be bought up to about 2016. I do not know if there was ever a lefty kit.
Floyd Rose Speed loader Fixed Bridge
Status: Discontinued
The Floyd Rose Speedloader Fixed Bridge is a flat-mount fixed bridge with fine tuners based on the Speedloader and released at the same time. Being fixed, it can be used right handed or left handed. I've never seen one but apparently it can still be used with Fender bullet strings. This bridge also came under scrutiny in the McCabe vs. Floyd Rose et. al case in 2010. Knock offs can be bought from AliExpress and even state they are made in Taiwan. Since Ping Well has been out of the business for nearly 10 years, I'm calling BS on that.
Note: Ping Well no longer sells Floyd Rose tremolos of any kind; the last time they were advertised was in their 2015 catalog. Since about 2020, they have had a new website and a new logo and sell mainly guitar tuners and some bridges.
CLICK HERE FOR PART 2: Floyd Rose Tremolos for left hand guitars: OEM Producers
CLICK HERE FOR PART 3: Floyd Rose Tremolos for left hand guitars: Proprietary Versions