Are you lacking a little growl in your life? Well look no further than this 1953 Fender Precision Bass, delivering the goods for the past 65 years.

Not happy with revolutionising the electric guitar, Leo Fender and George Fullerton introduced the Precision Bass in 1951. Our example here exemplifies the initial incarnation of this instrument with its slab asymmetric ash body, lacquered fibre pickguard, single pickup and chrome hardware that matched the telecaster as well as the translucent blonde finish. Clean and functional design.

This bass is in superb shape bordering on near mint considering the condition of most of the black guards we see. The body has a few dinks and knocks to the edges but has retained its luster as has the pickguard, the lacquer here is still glossy and un-blemished by time. The bridge still features its pressed fibre saddles, often replaced on a basses of this age. The chrome hardware is free of tarnish, adding to the effortless style of this instrument. The one piece maple neck is like new. Glossy and smooth, it’s real treat to play. The electronics have remained un-molested, each pot dated at 14th February 1953. 

It has both it’s neck and body hand finished by Tadeo Gomez, the master himself, who’s autograph or initials can be found both on the butt end of the neck and in the neck pocket. As a result of this, the neck feels just perfect and fits into your hand like a well loved glove. 

The hardshell case is a mid 50’s Koylon tweed and although not quite in such good condition as the rest of the guitar, it compliments it rater nicely and completes a pretty cool package.

Currently strung with flat wound strings with a low action, this bass is a joy to play. As with early Fender guitars, the neck is chunky without feeling like too much of a handful. The single coil pickup provides a straightforward tone with a nice balance of clarity and growl. This is a no-frills, plug and play machine.

This 1953 Fender Precision is a fantastic example that has survived the years with grace and style. As with any of Leo’s output, this bass looks fanatic and has a tone to match.