Another Overpriced Pre-CBS Jazz

[JIO]

Yes, collectors drive these markets. No, the prices don't make sense to users. They aren't supposed to. No one says they are supposed to. Collectively I'd wish we'd get over collector-driven prices.

yep - every single critical 'opinion' of the sellers asking price is made by people with absolutely no intention of purchasing it. I could criticize what a Ferrari (or anything astronomically priced) is being sold for, but as someone who in no way could ever afford a Ferrari (or that bass) - I simply enjoy looking at it.

Having said that, I get why people are critical of an exorbitant price for a bass guitar vs a Ferrari, unless of course you had a Ferrari in your youth when they also were a bit less expensive. That Jazz sold for under $300 new in '61. But for all reasons that have been given why (market, nostalgia, famous players etc) - it is what it is and completely out of our hands in every way. That is, unless you were fortunate enough to buy one when they were more affordable.

 

[PolkaHero]

yep - every single critical 'opinion' of the sellers asking price is made by people with absolutely no intention of purchasing it. I could criticize what a Ferrari (or anything astronomically priced) is being sold for, but as someone who in no way could ever afford a Ferrari (or that bass) - I simply enjoy looking at it.

Having said that, I get why people are critical of an exorbitant price for a bass guitar vs a Ferrari, unless of course you had a Ferrari in your youth when they also were a bit less expensive. That Jazz sold for under $300 new in '61. But for all reasons that have been given why (market, nostalgia, famous players etc) - it is what it is and completely out of our hands in every way. That is, unless you were fortunate enough to buy one when they were more affordable.

I paid $600 for my '61 Jazz two years ago. Deals are out there but you gotta move quick when they show up! Not to mention know what someone is selling.

 

[LiquidMidnight]

I remember someone once said, "The vintage instrument market really doesn't have anything to do with musicians." I tend to think that's true.

 

[JIO]

I paid $600 for my '61 Jazz two years ago. Deals are out there but you gotta move quick when they show up! Not to mention know what someone is selling.

Well, that's an extraordinary example if there ever was one.

 

[JIO]

I remember someone once said, "The vintage instrument market really doesn't have anything to do with musicians." I tend to think that's true.

Depends on the specific "vintage" instrument. I own a few very nice vintage instruments (acquired for fair prices) that are not considered as valuable as same year Fenders/Gibsons etc for a number of reasons. They are all players - not investments.

 

[Bigbri]

Where are you seeing the crack in the headstock? Mine had a really noticeable one when I first got it, not seeing it on this bass in question.

From the e tuner hole to the edge of the headstock right above the nut. About 3/4 inch long. Not unusual.

 

[mtdkingstonheir]

This article seems very appropriate:
Dave's Corner: The Case For Player Grade Vintage

Wise words.