Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Maybe it's just the pickguard, but the finish doesn't look right either.

Whadda you guys think?

http://cgi.ebay.com/1971-72-Rickenbacker-Bass-Guitar_W0QQitemZ7391595253QQcategoryZ4713QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I think it's just the (poor) pictures. That pickguard is not original, of course. The shape is wrong and the bass pickup is too close to the fretboard.
Since 1971 4001s came with first version Grover tuners and no 'skunk' stripe, I'd say it is a (late?) 1972 4001.

Could be a real early '72, also, since there are two forum members (myself included) that have January '72's with no skunk stripe.

Otherwise, yeah, the finish does look weird.

I must say, my first impressions were that it wasn't right.

Looks like a refin to me........

I'd say it is a 72, it has all the hallmarks of one. If it's a refin, it's an old one IMHO...

Looks real. Real ugly. Just kidding! Actually, it does seem real, and maybe original finish that sat in a store window or was exposed to sunlight for a long time. Or just weird camera settings. A new guard and it may be a sleeper.

The finish does not look stock... but an old refin.

The headstock shape is the same as my 72. Wavy grover tuners. It has the plexi TRC with the same writing as mine. Looks real to me aside from the pickguard and "humbucker." Split bridge, etc.

The toaster is in the right position for that era.

Looks like my late '72 4001, but mine was Jetglo & Deluxe, with checkerboard binding. Of course it has been 30 years since I saw mine ....

It's not far from me. If anybody wants me to inquire about taking a peek at it.

I think the BLACK PG might have something to do with it's odd appearance.
That and funky lighting and whatnot....

That Humbucker for the treble PU looks like it has poles
across the middle of a pealing black paint to reveal a green
bobbin......
You guys know where I'm going with this I hope...

I'd say 72 or very early 73. No way 71...
IMHO
Worth a bid tho...

Yup, agree with John. Hard to see if those inlays sparkle, or if they are of the resin type a la early 73..

I have interest in this bass if the price stays low, to use as a project. I asked for more photos. I can't even tell if it has checkerboard binding, much less the inlays.

I'm still not 100% it's not a faker.

you can see the checkerboard on the photo of the bridge end of it.

I see it now... Thanks!