Chiliwailer

You're right, it's not a USA case as they were black tolex at that time. It's a well known fact that many international importers had Fenders shipped to them without the cases, this was to keep the costs down. So this case could well have been from an international distributer, meaning the guy who owns it would think its 'original' as it's what was sold to him at the time. Just depends on your view of original and if you can find out more about international cases. I've only seen earlier Swedish cases. It's worth mentioning that the amps of that period had silver faces with blue print, so the plate they made for the case is at least in time with the era.

[quote name='discreet' timestamp='1455977420' post='2984168'] I suppose a psychologist would call it a 'displacement activity' or some such? [/quote] I often wonder that. But also, I wonder if it's about: Looking for happiness in the wrong place Not understanding the difference between want and need Plugging a hole in your life, though you're not aware that the hole actually exists Addiction to wanting Or Just that there are too many nice guitars and basses in the world and we can be fickle beings. Which brings you back to want and need, get that right and the force is with you to resist that GAS. I'm happy to have fun with GAS if I'm not going to lose money, nothing to lose that way.

[quote name='Grangur' timestamp='1455900113' post='2983497'] Ahhhhh.... well, THAT explains everything. I was just thinking if Mexico never made that type of bass in a Mist finish, but the neck is clearly MiM, then maybe it's a bitsa. But I'm sure I MUST be wrong and this HAS to be from the Mexico Custom shop. [/quote] Ah, the infamous Mexican Custom Shop, that's to blame for many a mess... Remember the Splattercaster? This is 100% legit, I was a sales rep for Arbitor and then Fender at the time. They were a special run, and very nice too.

[quote name='Grangur' timestamp='1455890327' post='2983347'] Bearing in mind the contradictions identified by some of the guys here, do we know for sure that this isn't a bass of mixed origin? [/quote] Designed in California, made in Mexico and living in the UK isn't mixed origin enough for you?

[quote name='Cotswoldbassguitars' timestamp='1455832592' post='2982905'] I wonder if it was a special run? It certainly looks a nice find! [/quote] Yes, they were a FSR but were available for quite some time. I very nearly bought a BM Jazzmaster at the time, great colour

Hi Karl, having worked for Fender around then I can confirm that you're right as they were marketed as a 60's, no specific year given. I can see how someone would argue that it's based on a 62, but that's an argument I personally can't be arsed with

[quote name='bramleyapple' timestamp='1455752920' post='2982228'] Hi guys Battery was changed yesterday. I'm going to check it out tomorrow but as of tonight if I turn the volume down its stops clipping. I had never seen the blue clipping light until my FNA turned up. It does seem to output some serious tone. [/quote] Are the pickups too high?

Bought a pedal from Chris. Posted quickly, packed well and friendly emails so all good. Thanks pal.

Was my pleasure to sell a lovely bass to Andy. Friendly emails and great communication throughout. A top bloke for sure

[quote name='BigRedX' timestamp='1455446362' post='2979084'] What are you going to do about the frets when they wear out? [/quote] Take them out and sell them on eBay as 'original vintage' and for a bargain £250.

[quote name='Hutton' timestamp='1455468819' post='2979340'] That's fine as far as it goes and I agree with you. However, when someone says that they can't offer you what you are asking for your bass because it isn't 100% original because of the replaced pot despite it being included in the sale then that is a problem. How much are you meant to knock off for an original pot not being fitted but included. Seems daft to me. [/quote] I hear you mate. I'd think that the 'buyer' is either trying it on, or that it simply isn't the bass for them if they are that picky about a pot and subsequent discount. If they want it all original then why are they not bothered by new solder? I wouldn't want to be pushed into a corner by someone that anal. There is no discount rules, just depends on what you're both happy with.

Problem is, if you need to take out the pot to fix it then the solder isn't virgin anymore.... Seems like a waste if time to me. I'd just replace it and include it in a sale IF someone is that bothered. Done it myself a few times on more vintage bases than an 81.

You're right that it's a mid range boost and cut, but with no centre dent

[quote name='hiram.k.hackenbacker' timestamp='1454895594' post='2974016'] Probably one of the worst openings I've seen for a while, but I didn't really have high expectations from Coldplay. Don't really know what the organisers were thinking booking them. Thought things were on the up when Bruno turned up, but he trotted out the predictable and Beyoncé certainly didn't add anything. Oh good, Coldplay are back on. Yawn. [/quote] Just finished watching the game, skipped the half time show due to my Coldplayphobiaitus. Not the best of games either unfortunately.

I love TI's and have them on a Lull PJ and Warwick Thumb 5. But in my experience they don't suit all basses. Well worth a set from DV247 though to try out.

[quote name='hiram.k.hackenbacker' timestamp='1454683065' post='2972036'] Just spat my tea out over myself. Thanks [/quote] I hope that's not a euphemism