Hofner serial number?

[firstbase]

I am doing some further looking into what I am told is 1965 Hofner 500/1. Does anyone know where the Serial Number is located on those instruments? The dealer can't find it. Thanks in advance.

 

[T-Bird]

Hi.

No wonder he can't find it, it doesn't exist AFAIK.

The old Höfners are dated by pots and parts. Good set of pics of the hardware, construction and the pot codes are a good place to start.

Edit: You must know this site already, but anyway here's a link.

http://www.vintagehofner.co.uk/cont.html

Regards
Sam

 

[Mr. Mig]

Even the new hofner's don't have them on the instrument. They are usually on the original paperwork that you get when you buy a new one.

 

[firstbase]

Thanks guys, sorry for the bother. I did find that site and it seems that the pots are the only way to find out on this one...no original paperwork.

 

[Thornton Davis]

Hofner's sold through their UK distributor Selmer of London during the 60's had serial numbers stamped on the back of the headstock. Those serial numbers are very traceable.

For 60's made Hofner's the best way to determine the year of manufacture is both visually looking for specific features and to date the volume pots. If you don't know how to read the pot codes PM me and i'll explain it to you.

Even the new hofner's don't have them on the instrument. They are usually on the original paperwork that you get when you buy a new one.

Sorry, but that's incorrect. Since the late 1990's Hofner has been placing the serial number on a label that's glued to the instrument inside the body cavity right underneath the control panel. Remove the control and you'll see it right there.

TD

 

[njfrese]

My Hofner has those black volume nobs with the silver tops. I've been told that means it dates between 1969-1971. Inside the electronics it reads 54 250K. Would that be any help in dating it?

 

[FranF]

Hey NJ, yours date to the 5th week of 1974.

 

[jcrios]

Does anybody knows if this number is the serial number? Inside the electronics it reads B 472K 2232

 

[jimtone]

How about Hofner Hct 500/1 serial# P0615B283

 

[Martin on the Bass]

The serial is stamped on the top of the head.

 

[jimtone]

Does anybody knows if this number is the serial number? Inside the electronics it reads B 472K 2232

I'm thinking B dates it to 2001?