Help verifying a 1981 Fender P-Bass

Had an '81 PBass aswell.
S9 Serial was used until around 1981.
Poties are from (R1378106) 1981.
Matching Serial Sticker was underneath the Pickguard.
1981 often came with white pickup cover and no more fingerrest.
But with both chrome covers.
Looks all legit for an 1981.

 

As mentioned above S9 was used until August 1981.

S7 January 1977 – April 1978
S8 December 1977 – December 1978
S9 November 1978 – August 1981
E0 June 1979 – December 1981

Overlapping. Poties are from 1981 - so most likely 1981. Black and maple looks great.

How to Date your Fender Guitar by Serial Number - Guitar Repair Bench

 

It all looks correct to me. The amount of overspray/paint in the body neck cavity is a little odd as it has obliterated any production codes/dates. But as late 70s early 80s was very hit and miss quality wise for Fenders the body is still more likely genuine. How heavy is it? Basses from that era are some of the heaviest I've played which is why many ended up not being played and are still in almost new condition.

 

Interesting is the fact this would have been the last year before overseas production took Fender by storm. ... I can't remember when CBS handed over Fender to it's employees but, must of been close to this. ... Nice piece of history.

 

Not if the bridge saddles are bottomed out.

 

So, we're trying to verify if this bass is "genuinely" from the worst period in Fender's history? Why?

It's a musical instrument, and one which is highly unlikely to become a valuable collector's item (the basses made in the last 20 years are, at least typically) better than this one. So, evaluate it as to whether or not it's a good musical instrument. I wouldn't be at all worried if the neck was actually from 2013 - that'd make it a better instrument.

It looks nice. If the neck is straight and doesn't have a massive dead spot, play it.

 

Agree and some ordinary guys bought them even in a double pack: