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musical instrument details

1965 RICKENBACKER 4005--RARE EARLY MODEL

Estimated price for orientation: 6 350 $

Category: Bass Guitars
Class:











Description
Body Type: Semi-Hollow Model: 4005
String Configuration: 4 String Dexterity: Right-Handed
Style: Semi-hollowbody Bass Brand: Rickenbacker
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States


This one's a pretty rare find. Most of these NS 4005s seem to be from 1967 and 1968. This is a prototype or very early production instrument (first batch?) from late in 1965. Look at the pickup spacing--only the earliest of these had this closer spacing. No, there is no patching or funny stuff on the top!
The two filled holes on the back side of the treble horn could be from a knee rest for sit-down playing, which was removed at some time in the past.
Everything is original, pickguard has no tape on back so may have been replaced a long time ago. Correct and original wiring harness with blue caps and black push-back insulation, '65-style selector switch. Correct pickups, tuners, tailpiece, bridge (still 1/3 adjustment left), nice straight neck with slim profile, recent pro refret. Flatwound nickel strings. Original crushed pearl inlays in mint condition.  Very nice patina, not beat up, with attractive play wear, and the back has not been thrashed. Shiny original varnish over very vivid ambered Fireglo original finish. Aside from the refret and the pickguard, it's all there and all correct. Comes with a nice Ameritage Gold custom-fitted case with plush lining, digital humidistat and humidifier. Case was custom-ordered in Navy Blue nylon with deep brown trim and plush lining and brass hardware. This was a $500.00 case when new and is probably less than 6 years old, judging from the serial number. Nice instrument with great looks and lots of play life left in it.