Hello drjenney!
Believe me, I am a consumer also. However, when I purchased the Roman Conqueror, there was an exchange within the club as to the reason that beautiful instrument was sold. This is really no one's concern, and it amazed me how shallow and bigotted some musicians could be. I do not want that revisited, Jeff is a gentleman and good club member.
My point was that if you really want to know the value of a used Series II, I have seen them sell on e-bay from $8,500 to 15,000. I hope this solves your curiosity without hasseling or tire kicking unfairly. Keep in mind Jeff is trying to sell this bass. As club members we should be the least likely to kill him over price, even as he has stated a willingness to help members more than the average buyer that might contact him.
Remember unlike Fenders, Alembics are one of a kind instruments. The value to one is very different to another. I was lucky as the RC is mine, as well as a Mark King Deluxe purchased from Rory K. Lane, who used to be a very active member (and wise soul as well). I also bought two new Alembics; a Stanley from Bass Central and the Ed Roman Triple Omega (had to resuce that one from Ed, who stopped selling new Alembics). I'm sure some used Series II may have even sold for more than stated above. John Lodge's Series I has an asking price of $20,000. I for one never bought into the famous former isntrument owner game, but that does not invalidate some else who values that association with an instrument.
I will not reveal what I paid for the RC, in fairness to Jeff and me. I also tend not to sell instruments. When I married, my wife understood my instruments, albums, Cassettes, CD's etc. all had seniority with me. Until 2-3 years ago, I did not buy any more. Now that I'm in my 50's. I realize life is not to be taken for granted, and that I needed to enjhoy the priviledge of employeing people, feeding my family etc.
As far as the user name, I love tubes the electronics, as well as the group, as well as, well ya'all know what this can lead to. My Marantz Model 7 pre-amp. 8 and 9 (mono pair) of power amps as well a 10B Tuner speak for themselves.
And I alwasy respect another point of view. There's not enough of that in society today. This is what made our country so great. We need to disagree civilly, or party harder when we do agree. Ay one for single malt scotch?
Regards,
Bottom line, enjoy the Alemboics any way you can, and be kind to fellow club members. Happy Holidays (without offending anyone for saying so)