1958 Hofner 500/1 Violin Bass Sunburst

Truly a rarity here in Australia, we have a gorgeous '50s Violin Bass on offer!

Introduced in 1956, the original run of Violin Basses are quite unique in their presentation and are a lot harder to find than their '60s counterparts. This particular example, dating somewhere around early 1958 based on numbers stamped on the pots and the serial number features its original closely-spaced 'black bar' pickups and the four control layout for these earlier examples. This example came from the consignees father, who was the original owner and even reputably played it at Festival Hall. Truss rods weren't present on these, with this example also possessing the flat back. In an interesting twist, the material used for the control plate and pickguard appear different to most other examples commonly offered. It's our belief that these have been replaced with period correct material. The little nails that help suspend the pickguard appear to be missing. The original pots and wiring were non-functioning, and has had its entire wiring harness replaced, with the original wiring harness included in the sale. The original tuners have also been swapped out for new, near-identical Hofner vintage-style machine heads, with the original machine heads also included with sale. 

Cosmetic condition is quite impressive for its age, retaining its original finish with the expected checking, dings and marks throughout. After a service the bass currently plays really well with a nice medium/low action and is strung with La Bella Beatle Bass flatwound strings.  

Includes the original hard case.