Any info on this bass ??

[Chop11777]

Good evening all !!!
Just picked up this Harmony bass
Curious if anyone knows much about them ? Any help on the year ? I don't see any serial number on it anywhere.

Is it a maple body ? Japanese sen ?
Any info is appreciated cause it's just a cool bass !
Thanks
-chop!!!!

 

[Lo-E]

Most of it’s already been said: probably late 70s/early 80s Japan. Possibly later 80s Korea.

In either case, these were instruments that were much maligned in their time because of their affordable prices despite the fact that they were actually pretty well made. In most cases, just as well made as US Fenders at the time, especially in the late 70s.

As you’ve already discovered, the hardware and electronics on these can be a little sub-par but it’s all commonly sized and easily replaceable and doing so will produce a reliable, giggable instrument.

In short; nice bass!

 

[Chop11777]

Well... it's all Harmony. They were kind of big in the 60s, they made different types of guitars and basses and honestly, I wasn't a fan. But a solid body solid wood looking jazz like that, what could go wrong. I'd put some paraffin on them gears. Clean it up real, good play it and then make a decision.But it looks very salvageable , and it looks like it would probably be a pretty good player.

Thanks for the info !!!
It actually is a great feeling , well balanced player !!
I plan to put some early 70's model p's
In and just enjoy it !!!
-chop!!!

 

[Chop11777]

Most of it’s already been said: probably late 70s/early 80s Japan. Possibly later 80s Korea.

In either case, these were instruments that were much maligned in their time because of their affordable prices despite the fact that they were actually pretty well made. In most cases, just as well made as US Fenders at the time, especially in the late 70s.

As you’ve already discovered, the hardware and electronics on these can be a little sub-par but it’s all commonly sized and easily replaceable and doing so will produce a reliable, giggable instrument.

In short; nice bass!

Thank you for the info !!!

 

[Lo-E]

The body is probably a SE Asian wood called Sen, which is…. ash-ish.
Usually a little tighter-grained than actual ash but looks similar enough and is commonly found on clear-finished bodies from the region.

 

[cdef]

I would surmise this one was made in South Korea, witness the typical gold/black sticker on the back of the headstock.