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52 Precision

Engle

Engle

Oct 5, 2014
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93,433
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Pacific Northwet
#1
My drummer who plays in a community big band messaged last night to say one of the elderly members of that band has a 52 Precision Bass they want to sell.

I immediately asked if it was an actual 1952 or a re-issue and it turns out its an original.

A quick google search later, I see this bass could be worth upwards of 10K. I wouldn't want it for my collection - I'd be afraid of it getting damaged and/or stolen!

However I feel like I should help this elderly musician to make sure they don't get ripped off. (And I wouldn't mind playing it for a few minutes....)

If I go to see it, is there anything in particular I should be looking for? I don't know specifics of early fenders - guess it's time to do some research!
 
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#2
Engle said:
My drummer who plays in a community big band messaged last night to say one of the elderly members of that band has a 52 Precision Bass they want to sell.

I immediately asked if it was an actual 1952 or a re-issue and it turns out its an original.

A quick google search later, I see this bass could be worth upwards of 10K. I wouldn't want it for my collection - I'd be afraid of it getting damaged and/or stolen!

However I feel like I should help this elderly musician to make sure they don't get ripped off. (And I wouldn't mind playing it for a few minutes....)

If I go to see it, is there anything in particular I should be looking for? I don't know specifics of early fenders - guess it's time to do some research!
Click to expand...
TB member @Bflat is a wealth of knowledge on the original Precision. Hopefully he'll chime in with some info.
 
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#4
Take some detailed pics of the tuners, bridge (and serial #), pg, pickup, etc. The bridge should have fiber saddles, although they might have deteriated over the years and been replaced w/ steel. Original example could have slot head screws as well. Would love to know more about it.
Bflat could add lots to the conversation.
 
Last edited:
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#6
Here are a few pictures from the Fender Bass Book showing some details from the earliest P Basses. The pressed fiber saddles, serial number on the bridge paste, lacquered pickguard and distinctive thumb rest are obvious details to look for.
image.jpg
 
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#8
Engle said:
My drummer who plays in a community big band messaged last night to say one of the elderly members of that band has a 52 Precision Bass they want to sell.

I immediately asked if it was an actual 1952 or a re-issue and it turns out its an original.

A quick google search later, I see this bass could be worth upwards of 10K. I wouldn't want it for my collection - I'd be afraid of it getting damaged and/or stolen!

However I feel like I should help this elderly musician to make sure they don't get ripped off. (And I wouldn't mind playing it for a few minutes....)

If I go to see it, is there anything in particular I should be looking for? I don't know specifics of early fenders - guess it's time to do some research!
Click to expand...

Found this one listing for $11,900 + $45 Shipping:
Fender Precision Bass 1952 Blond | Reverb

Reverb also estimates the price range from $9,000 — $16,000.

Hope you're able to take and post some pics!
 
#10
Groove Doctor said:
Your good deed is duly noted. May good fortune be returned to you 100-fold. :)
Click to expand...

Thanks, but I haven't done anything yet!
I have met most of the folks in that band - lot's of really nice old timers.
I was going to join, but I couldn't bring myself to wear the blue polyester jacket;) My drummer buddy just rocks the big band tunes!
 
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#19
Engle said:
My drummer who plays in a community big band messaged last night to say one of the elderly members of that band has a 52 Precision Bass they want to sell.

I immediately asked if it was an actual 1952 or a re-issue and it turns out its an original.

A quick google search later, I see this bass could be worth upwards of 10K. I wouldn't want it for my collection - I'd be afraid of it getting damaged and/or stolen!

However I feel like I should help this elderly musician to make sure they don't get ripped off. (And I wouldn't mind playing it for a few minutes....)

If I go to see it, is there anything in particular I should be looking for? I don't know specifics of early fenders - guess it's time to do some research!
Click to expand...
I'LL TAKE IT!!!!! :woot:
 
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