ESP Navigator production period?

[LarsBj]

Hi everybody,
I tried a custom made ESP P-bass copy in a studio some time ago. It was probably from 1990 and was very good with a clear and precise tone and a solid punch. Now I have an option for a ESP Navigator J-bass style.
It is pretty confusing to get an overview over ESPs models. And it does'nt seem possible to track down serial numbers on their instruments.

So do anyone know the production period for Navigator basses?
Were they all made in Japan?

Thanks
LarsBj

 

[LarsBj]

Maybe I should rephrase my question:

When did they stop production of Navigator basses in Japan?

LarsBj

 

[DeliriumTremens]

They still make Navigator basses there. VERY high end, on a par quality wise with any of the US custom shop type builders (from what I hear, I've never played one.)

ESP | Navigator Series

 

[LarsBj]

Thank you for the information.

Beautiful instruments, indeed.
I didn't try the japanese web site. The Kandji scared me ;-)
I'm looking forward to try one, but I suppose it is an older instrument. Late 80'ies or 90'ies.

 

[isomela]

Hi!

I´m not sure about production period eighter but I have one Esp Navigator P/J bass and I guess it´s made early 80s or late 70s. No serial numbers just a small esp stamped on metal plate behind the body.
I also owned an navigator jazz bass but traded it to ESP 400series Jazz bass. GREAT BASSES!!

 

[Old Mela]

I bought my bass in 1984 as a "Navigator Custom Tele Bass". Few years ago I read somewhere that Navigator basses have been in production from 70's (or even earlier on). On the neck there are three small letters: ESP. I read in the same article, that Navigator is considered as the flagship label of ESP company because of the good materials used and skillful work.

At the time of purchase I had two Gibson basses (I really do regret selling the Ripper!), but sold them because I felt there was no need for them any more.

However, I still have the Navigator, which I consider the best instrument I've ever had. Now that the wood has aged for almost 30 years it sounds really great.

 

[JonesyHC]

I bought my bass in 1984 as a "Navigator Custom Tele Bass". Few years ago I read somewhere that Navigator basses have been in production from 70's (or even earlier on). On the neck there are three small letters: ESP. I read in the same article, that Navigator is considered as the flagship label of ESP company because of the good materials used and skillful work.

At the time of purchase I had two Gibson basses (I really do regret selling the Ripper!), but sold them because I felt there was no need for them any more.

However, I still have the Navigator, which I consider the best instrument I've ever had. Now that the wood has aged for almost 30 years it sounds really great.

Super old post but do you have pictures of this Tele bass?
I only ask as i have one, an ESP version, and i can't see any info on them