Can this Possibly be Bad?

[elroyjetsn]

I'm offered a '72 Navy Blue American Fender P-bass for $650 with hard case. Am I a fool for passing it up? Is there any possible downside to this deal?

What things should I look for to know It's all original/authentic.

Finish is dull, but otherwise nice shape.

Thanks,
Wayne

 

[JxBass]

Any pics? It would be easier for folks to detect things that don't look right than to try to list all the things that do.

 

[SamanthaCay]

Well for starters Navy blue was not a Fender color that year and to the best of my knowledge never has been.
There have been some that are similar though, for example, aged lake placid blue could be mistaken for navy blue.
The best course of action would be to either get it checked out by someone who knows vintage Fenders so that they can take it apart and verify authenticity or...

Another possible option is to post detailed photos here.
What we're looking for are,
Under the pickguard.
In the neck pocket.
The heel of the neck.
Pot codes.
Close ups of the soldering and wires.
Backs of pickups.
Full body shot. (front and back)
Headstock. (front and back)
Close up of the neck plate.

Now on the note of price,
if it really is an all original 72 p and it's in even rough condition it's worth well over 650
I'm sure someone will have a different opinion on this but I would be inclined to say,
if all original it could be worth anywhere between 1000 and 2500 depending on it's condition.

Best of luck,
Samantha.

 

[elroyjetsn]

It was in my friend's studio for a while and I did play it on occasion. (since the owner wants to sell) He returned it to the owner so it wouldn't get damaged sitting around.

I say navy blue since that's the closest I could think of. Really it's lighter color. Maybe medium, sort of metallic maybe. Can't remember. Knobs appeared very old metal and dingy. Neck appeared pristine and think it had 6 digit serial starting with 727. Played nicely.

 

[superbassman2000]

it is a 72, and not a reissue right?

 

[carlos840]

The S+ first number serial system didnt start until late 76!

Your not reading the serial number right...

According to your serial number info its a 76...

If its a 76 lake placid blue in good condition, mostly original you cant go wrong for 650$

It all comes down to one thing, does it play well?

 

[elroyjetsn]

Honestly, can't remember the serial, except that there wasn't any letters in it. I've called to see about giving it a complete examination and taking lots of pix.

Thanks,
Wayne