Nicely wordedHey Everybody,
Let me first start off by apologizing to the group. If I have offended anyone by being rude or by saying something insensitive, I sincerely apologize. Unfortunately, I sometimes loose self awareness when I'm passionate about what I'm talking about or in trying to make a point. However, there’s nothing I would like more than there to be good vibes with everyone here.
Regarding the comments: “Nobody can stop one from ordering a '59 P in 2TSB or Candy Tangerine, period-accurate or not.”
and...
“Color doesn't mark the year-model of the bass.”
I would like to state that I would never intentionally impose my will or views on anyone regarding what bass they can purchase or what features they should have on their bass. If there is somewhere in the thread I did that or communicated that, it was wrong and I sincerely apologize.
The intention of my comment to slick_tu about the changing of 2TSB to 3TSB in 58 was solely for a historical reference, and was not an attempt to tell him what he could or couldn't have. However, my suspicion is I have failed at that, and if that's the case, I apologize.
So what the heck was I doing and why did I feel it necessary to state any history?
Here was my thinking: As I'm sure everyone knows, relic basses and guitars were started to mimic vintage Fender guitars and basses, and unfortunately there are those who swindle others with fakes. Whether it be viewed as good or bad, I like to share what I know about the history of these instruments if for no other reason that it may prevent someone from getting ripped off in the future. I am thankful to those who have shared information freely here at TB like John Kallas and The Bass Clef, who are a wealth of knowledge. It is for this same reason that I share what I know as a sign of thanks for all that has been shared with me. Pass the baton so to speak.
In the FCS thread there's the benefit of knowing we are talking about CS basses, but if someone where to be looking for an original 59, it would be good to know what appointments to expect. Also there are members here who own vintage instruments, so the comments to history hopefully will benefit some who may be also in the market for a vintage bass.
So just to reiterate, I support 100% the idea that anyone should be able to purchase a bass with whatever combination of features they wish. After all, it is in the spirit of what the Fender Custom Shop is all about.
As you know, I had recently written about what I have considered (and no one else has to agree with me) inconsistencies in Fender's product line for no other reason than it makes it difficult (for me) to speak about a model when there are exceptions in specs and appointments. This is a good thing for us players as everyone can get what they want, but not so easy when trying to explain features of a model to someone else.
I would refrain from calling these differences in appointments inconsistencies, if it was what the costumer or dealer ordered. But if there is something like forearm wear on a Lush Closet Classic finish, it would be helpful to see photos on Fender's site, showing variances so customers will know what can be expected. It may be off putting for a customer who purchased a Lush Closet Classic finish, never seeing an example with forearm wear, to receive their long awaited bass that had it. This may not bother some customers, as someone previously mentioned that this is the state in which the bass will end up over enough time. But to others who want a lighter relic look, this could be a problem.
My hope here is that we could all have an honest conversation about the basses we love without strife, even when there may be differences in opinion. These are just my thoughts, and I don't necessarily think anyone should agree with them - although my hope would be that people could at least can see how I arrived at my perspective, whether they agree with it or not.
My comments were never meant to take away from the quality of Fender products or diminish the value and enjoyment of what they have brought to the world. I am truly a huge Fender fan.
Hopefully this explanation has not nullified my apology in anyone's eyes. If it has, or if there is any remaining unrest I can help resolve, there is nothing I would want more than to mend it. You can't please everyone, but if there is something I can do to clean up my side of the street, I'm all for doing it.
Best wishes to all.
hey - here is my SFT i just received with my "lush CC" with the forearm wear
