


![]() 1963 Fender Precision Bass - Sunburst |
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The 1963 Fender Precision Bass is a highly regarded vintage bass guitar, known for its role in shaping the sound of modern music. This era of the Precision Bass (P-Bass) is particularly sought after by collectors and musicians due to its build quality, tonal characteristics, and historical significance.
History
• The Fender Precision Bass was first introduced in 1951 as the world’s first mass-produced electric bass guitar.
• By the early 1960s, the P-Bass had undergone several refinements, both in design and components.
• The 1963 model represents a transitional period for Fender, shortly before the company was sold to CBS in 1965. This era is often considered the “golden years” of Fender instruments.
• It became a staple in rock, blues, jazz, and soul music, used by legendary bassists such as James Jamerson, Donald “Duck” Dunn, and John Entwistle.
Specifications
Body & Finish
• Body Material: Alder (except for some blonde-finished models, which were often ash).
• Finish: Nitrocellulose lacquer.
• Colors: Standard finish was Sunburst, but custom colors were available (Olympic White, Candy Apple Red, Fiesta Red, Lake Placid Blue, etc.).
Neck & Fingerboard
• Neck Material: One-piece maple.
• Neck Profile: “C” shape, slightly thicker than later 60s models.
• Fingerboard: Rosewood (typically Brazilian Rosewood) with clay dot inlays.
• Scale Length: 34 inches.
• Frets: 20 frets.
Electronics
• Pickup: Single split-coil Precision Bass pickup (Alnico V magnets).
• Controls: 1 Volume, 1 Tone.
• Output Jack: Mounted on the body (not on the pickguard).
Hardware
• Bridge: Traditional Fender four-saddle bridge (threaded steel saddles).
• Tuning Machines: Reverse-wind “cloverleaf” tuners.
• Pickguard: Tortoiseshell (common on Sunburst models) or white (on custom colors).
• Nut Width: 1.75 inches (wide by modern standards).
Notable Features
• Clay dot inlays (replaced by pearloid dots in late 1964).
• Spaghetti Fender logo (transitioning to the bold CBS-era logo in 1964-65).
• Nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which ages beautifully over time.
• Threaded bridge saddles, allowing for adjustable string spacing.
Sound & Playability
• The split-coil pickup provides a warm, punchy tone with a deep low end and clear mids.
• The nitro finish and aged wood contribute to a more resonant and “broken-in” feel.
• Known for its thick, vintage-style neck, which some players find more comfortable for certain playing styles.
Legacy & Value
• 1963 Fender Precision Basses are highly collectible, often selling for $15,000-$30,000+ depending on originality and condition.
• Used extensively in Motown, rock, blues, and jazz recordings.
• Considered one of the finest years for the Precision Bass, offering exceptional build quality and tone.