Thanks everyone for that.
Well I realize the covers aren't for everybody, but I like the vintage vibe, so for now they're staying on.
Yes Dave, I do like to charge about a bit, and at one time it'd be below waist level being swung in all directions, but I've melowed in my old age, and it's at stomach height and I'm a bit more subdued. After rehearsing with it a couple of nights ago, I can tell you it's without doubt the best Precision I've had my hands on, no question, and that surprised me. I'd expected a nice old bass, but not a tone monster too, and that's what it is. Steve Harris & JJ Burnel rolled into one, just what I was after.
I daren't even hint at whether or not it's a keeper, I'm a totally hopeless case when GAS hits me, and I was really gutted to let the Overwater go to buy this, but I'm skint, so I had to. Am I glad? F*** yes.
Thanks to Paul for selling it to me, and I'm afraid mate it won't be coming back to you anytime soon. This bass is exactly what I was after. It's a total stonker.