Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Just spotted a 73 4001 s/n MF that's got the same features as my 73 fireglo s/n ME on ebay. Seller states," I bought this bass new in 1973. Played it once a week during guitar lessons for a year. I then put it in the closet where it stayed for 30+ years". A little bit like the little old lady selling her car that she only drove to church on Sunday. It's only missing the wide inlays and the split bridge for the full pedigree, but to me that makes it a cool transition model. I'd almost rather have this than the shadow that's on there right now, but I'm not pursuing any ricks at this moment.

Sheezz..that's beautiful!

Cole

It certainly does look un-played . I have the credit....I cant......credit.....i cant......I want.....want......want.....want....glad it has binding....I hate binding....there , thats settled .

Barry, binding has never really bothered me even if it was leaving dents in my arm, but last year I started wearing one of those large wrist/arm bands because I had several instruments that I was trying to protect from persperation, etc. I had a mint 74 p-bass and I noticed that arm contact was starting to work into the finish, so I came up with this as a solution. As a side effect, I noticed a greater comfort level with my bound ricks, now I feel naked if I'm not wearing it.

Strange, the binding has never bothered me, but I guess I learnt to play on a 4001 so maybe that had some bearing.

BTW, that 73 is gorgeous. If only it had full width crushed pearl inlays, which are my favourite vintage feature.

yesh, full width MOP

Should the knobs have the vol./tone script on them? Still pretty though!

Good catch Fran. Mine does from April 73.

I have two mid '73s that do not have the writing on the knobs. Both are MF's. I think maybe Rick got a box of knobs and used them up. Funny as they also had(past tense) floating triangles....

All three of mine have script on the knobs so could they be replacements? Regarding the inlays, each type made in 1973 was rare(on the checkered models)because it only appeared for two months at a time, so just get one of each.

Also noticed that the tailpiece doesn't have the slot in the middle "tooth." Not sure when that was changed. I had it on my June 72, but replaced it as the chrome was badly flaking off.

Beautiful basses - Great picture, Mark. In the picture of you, you look like a hardened convict, or just mad at the world. Aren't you supposed to be happy when you play your Rick? LOL

My 72 has writing on the knobs as has every Ric I've ever seen, I have seen these knobs other places without writing though but have always thought they were from another manufacturer.

What can I say Kris...could it be bass face?
Here's a smirk....