1977 Alembic Series One

[Kai Sanchez]

Hello Alembic experts!
I have a friend in Miami that has an Alembic series one he bought new in 1977. There is checking all around the body. This checking is also present on the headstock/neck joint area and a professional repairman reinforced it with glue. This is not noticeable but should be mentioned.  The power supply is missing so the bass eats up batteries fairly quickly. We’re trying to assess the price on this bass. Thanks for your help!

[edwin]

Checking is normal for basses of this vintage. I had a '78 that was entirely checked with bits falling off. I had it refinished, but really, it wasn't necessary. There's also the thought that when it checks, the bass can vibrate more freely.

As far as price goes, it's hard to say. People pay what they will pay. I'm guessing somewhere around $6k.

[Kai Sanchez]

Thanks for your input Edwin!!!

[pauldo]

Kai,
For me checking = character.

Really shouldn’t effect the price of the instrument.   The right buyer will pay the right price... which is a completely ambiguous, non-committal statement.  But there is truth in it.  Alembics are incredibly beautiful AND extremely functional instruments (ask anyone here).   

That being said some people desire a pristine, flawless finish, some don’t mind a bit of road rash, others want a specific era Alembic, or one that has been in the hands of a Master, there are so many sought after characteristics that some people will pay a “steep” price for an instrument that others wouldn’t pay a “fair” price for.   

Not having the power supply would make it a hard sell for a ‘new to Alembic’ owner, those with an existing power supply would be fine.

Can you post a picture of the electronics?  Some older instruments have had upgrades installed that can make them more desirable.

Good luck
Paul

[hammer]

IMHO the price provided by Edwin is a bit high, especially if the bass has not had the electronics upgrade (unless your friend can verify that it has recently been played in a variety of venues including a studio and is quiet in all). It also depends on how quickly your friend is looking to sell it. For a quick sale something in the $4,500-$4,900 range will attract a lot of attention. At $6,000 it may sell but it will in all likelihood take longer.

[Kai Sanchez]

Thanks for the reply. I’m waiting for a pic of the control cavity. But I was told it’s the original electronics. No upgrade.