Mother of Pearl Fretboard Inlays

[Lalochezian]

The MOP inlays on my Spoiler bass have aged quite a bit, so they've become dull and/or transparent and now don't help much visually or look good esthetically.

It would be nice to have them replaced with an abalone set and I contacted Alembic about it but got no reply (last year). I'd hoped that they could sell a complete set. I guess it's a rare thing.

Has anyone had this done? A repairman told me that it would be preferable to have a re-fret done at the same time, but I'd hate to do that as the neck is perfect (after PLEK).

Any advice appreciated. Thank you.

[edwardofhuncote]

I don't, and can't speak for Alembic, but it's a true statement... the time to replace inlay is while a total refret is underway.


I have always wondered if the 'disappearing pearloid' ovals could be carefully removed, and re-inlaid with a light-colored backing. I have long suspected that the ebony backing, and a thin layer of glue is what made them seem so translucent. Aluminum foil backing... or even silver paint in the cavities might make them *pop*.


Might try it some day.

[pauldo]

Inquiring minds….  My understanding:

Typically you have multiple re-dressing of frets prior to actual fret replacement.   What happens during a re-fret that would make inlay replacement easier?

[mica]

On an old Spoiler, the inlays are a plastic material. That original plastic does go transparent over time (the newer acrylic doesn't do that).

If we replace inlays, we do that at the same time as a refret. We're happy to do the work, email me directly if you want to make arrangements.

[Artgeckko]

I have an 84 spoiler that has the faded markers. Bumped me a bit at first, now I kinda dig it. 
Each of my Alembics has small differences that make them unique. 
Still amazing sounding and looking basses.

[mica]

We were bummed when those inlays went clear too.