It really depends on what you want from your precision. I personally went for the Nate Mendel as it already had the upgrades I would have made to the bass without paying any extra or having to install. This aside, if you like a lighter bass, or slimmer neck then the NM is something you should consider as it has/is both. If you're not bothered by those features by all accounts the Classic 50's are highly regarded. I've owned the classic 60's and 70's jazzes and they were amongst the best basses I've owned for construction quality.