Considered the first 5-string production bass guitar, the Fender Bass V was a peculiar experiment by the Fender design team in the mid-'60s. Produced between 1965 and 1971 there were less than 200 of these bass guitars were made – a real rare and collectable, vintage, production Fender bass.
While this bass has a standard 34-inch scale, it only had 15 frets which made it less popular with many bassists – although was used by James Jamerson and John Paul Jones. Unlike contemporary 5-string basses, the Bass V's extra string is a high C on the bottom side of the guitar rather than the “extra string” being a low B.
This Candy Apple Red finished bass, with its matching finished headstock, is all original, in superb condition, and comes complete with its original hard case. Both pot codes are week 42 of 1965. The bass does have its original chrome pickup cover, however the bridge cover is not present. The bass does have some small marks around the edges, lacquer checking, and small area of buckle rash on the back (see last 8 pictures). The case has some damage to 2 of the corners but is still in perfect working order with all catches and hinges all present and correct.
As well as being a real eye catching bass (or “the ugliest bass guitar in the world” according to John Paul Jones) it is great fun to play and has a great tone thanks to that single split pickup.
Shipping within mainland UK using fully insured 24-hour courier service @ £35.00.
Shipping to US/Canada, using UPS, is £185.00. Shipping to EU is £65.00
Customers outside of UK/EU/US/Canada should contact Vintage Rare & Retro Guitars for a shipping quotation. Free pick-up is always available at our Gullane shop.
