Introduced in 1951, the Fender Precision Bass was the first solid-body electric bass guitar ever produced and is undoubtedly the most popular bass guitar design throughout music history. Because of its simple design, few controls, and split coil pickup, which provide a tonne of versatility for a wide range of styles, the Precision Bass has long been the preferred bass guitar for both studio and live settings.
A great example of an early slab board, clay dot '60s Fender bass, this 1961 Fender Precision Bass has been refinished in a Fiesta Red style finish, and comes complete with its original export case from Kitchens music in Leeds. This Precision Bass features an Alder body which has been refinished as previously mentioned, with evidence of a previous Sunburst finish beneath. Selmer are most commonly associated with early import refinished Fenders, along with music shops like Barretts in Manchester, all of whom could respray guitars for customers in the custom order colour they desired for an additional charge.
The Maple neck features a slab Rosewood fingerboard, with the unbound, clay-dot inlaid neck that was the standard for this model at the time, with a pencil date of 2-61 on the butt of the neck. The body is fitted with the traditional split coil Precision bass pickup, with a punch and midrange that have made these basses the go-to for pro musicians for over half a century. The celluloid tortoiseshell guard is original as are the open gear, oval button tuners, spaghetti headstock decal and bridge & pickup covers.
This guitar has sustained a couple of modifications over the years to keep it functioning as it should. It has benefited from a refret and both pots have been replaced, along with the knurled chrome volume and tone control knobs. The original split coil pickup is present and correct, as is all other hardware.
This guitar has been given a full service and appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
