Real or fake '73 4001? Help!

[JeffersonBlue]

I just found this bass for a screaming deal on Craigslist and jumped on it just in case it's the real thing, but I'm new to the world of Rics and my research wasn't conclusive. I'm hoping to get an expert opinion on the matter! A previous owner sanded the finish off most of the body. I'm definitely getting some work done on it, but if it's a fake then I won't put quite as much into it. Any help identifying would be great!

[jps]

It's real, although it does have a knock-off Allparts bridge/tailpiece, and Schaller M4S tuning keys (or maybe, Grover Titans, they look similar from the front). The bass was made in April 1973.

[daveman]

By the way, that was just around the end of the full-width inlays. My May 1973 has the smaller inlays.

[Gilmourisgod]

Nice find! Are you going to have it refinished in Fireglo?

[jps]

I had one from March '73.

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[cheyenne]

You got rid of that beautiful '73 Jeff?

[byu]

Looks like the headstock has some nice flame!

[jps]

You got rid of that beautiful '73 Jeff?

I sold it to a friend of mine earlier this year.

[songdog]

Nice catch! You were right to jump on this one. A little bit of cleaning and finishing, a few new parts, it will be a real player!

I have a late '72, very similar, I love it.

[cheyenne]

That was a nice one Jeff. I'm really a fan of vintage Mapleglo.

[jps]

It's still in NE Ohio so can visit it any time I want. Although, I am way more than happy with my two 4004 Laredos.