The Montego I (made from 1968 to 1974) was the single pickup version of the Montego. The Montengos were high end archtop electric jazz guitars (one level below the Ltd model) designed by Roger Rossmeisl. The Montego had a pressed spruce top and chrome hardware and came in both one (Montego I) and two pickup (Montego II) versions. Although fully hollow bodied they still had the characteristic bolt-on Fender neck. The pickup was a humbucker developed for a jazz sound, designed by Freddie Tavares. Less than 100 Montegos were made in total
Fender described the Montego models as follows in their 1969 catalog:
"A magnificent instrument for the professional or serious musician, the Montego combines both beauty and performance in a high quality great sounding guitar.
The Montego is available in both single [Montego I] or double pickup [Montego II] models. The double pickup Montego II contains two volume controls and two tone controls with a three position switch to obtain the sound flexibility today's busy session man finds necessary. The single pickup Montego I contains single tone and volume controls. Pickups on both models feature individually adjustable pole pieces for perfect string balance. A formed bridge is accurately placed and adjustable for height assuring custom playing action.
The body is elegantly contoured both top and back. Multi-binding beautifully inlaid between the spruce top and flamed maple sides and back, 'F‘ holes are also bound for maximum beauty. A heavily chromed tailpiece matches the pickup design and contains an inlaid Fender “F” insert. Montego’s fast action neck is heelless and removable. Fingerboard and head are inlaid with Australian mother-of-pearl. Grover Rotomatic Pearl Button machines offer smooth, non-slip tuning, Compare the Montego feature-by-feature; you’ll find it is indeed fit for the very finest company."