Fender Princeton Tube Amplifier (1948), ser. #986.

Fender Princeton Model Tube Amplifier (1948), made in Fullerton, California, serial # 986, tweed fabric covering finish. Height is 12 1/2 in. (31.8 cm.), 13 in. (33 cm.) width, and 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm.) deep. This is a lovely example of a VERY early iteration of one of Leo Fender's greatest and most popular creations, the tweed Princeton amplifier. The serial number is just under 1000, out of many thousands to come. While it shows some typical wear it remains extremely nicely preserved and relatively clean externally and internally. To make this amp functional required some cap work (electrolytics replaced, cleaned tube sockets, "death cap" removal) and a 3-prong cord, but the original circuit is unaltered. The speaker is a new Weber 10W 4ohm C8VA Alnico. The tweed (the early style non-lacquered) is somewhat worn with some small fraying spots but the outside all original as well, including the original pattern early slot-head screws. The faceplate is relatively clean with some minor loss to the screened graphics. The original fabric grill cloth and leather handle are still intact. This is an historic and still really fine-sounding small amp -- and we're talking built in 1948 here, folks -- and remains one of Leo Fender's early crowning glories! Overall Excellent Condition.