What you're looking at here is an ultra-rare double-bound Rickenbacker 4005 WB in natural Maple. I believe they call this "Mapleglo"? It is basically the gloss varnished wood finish.

The standard original 4005 basses are scarce, having been out of production for over 40 years after a 20 year run from the mid-60's.The double-bound variant is like unicorn poo: I have only seen a few in my entire life, and only a couple for sale this millennium.I waited over 10 years for this one to come up for sale, so I wouldn't hang around if you're in the market for one of these!

Condition-wise, despite being over 50 years old now, the bass is in fantastic condition.
It has the period "hi-Gain" pickups, and the wavy Grover tuners. The output is mono: no "Rick-o-Sound" output on this model.

For a 50 year old instrument, there is virtually no buckle rash, and only one light scratch on the front of the body, at the thin end of the sound-hole. There is a tiny section of the binding missing on the back, at the heel of the neck (about 3mm), but the bass appears original. See the pictures.The case is a modern remake of the original "vintage" case, in a lovely black Tolex. I bought this case personally from the US a few years back, after a lot of searching. I think it was the last of a batch made specifically for the 4005's?

I would say the bass has a lovely natural patina: actually played during its lifetime, but very well taken care of.People simply didn't buy premium basses in the 1970's to keep under their bed, hoping they would be worth something in 50 years time! They bought them to play! Oh, how times have changed....

My life priorities have also changed: I cannot justify having several premium basses anymore, so I need this to go to a good home.

Collection in person preferred for this bass (obviously!), but I may be able to ship the bass if someone wants it really badly! But it will not be cheap: so please message me to arrange how the bass gets to you BEFORE purchasing!
I'm based in Worthing, Sussex, on the south coast of England.

Shipping to UK addresses will be around £300, The EU £400 and the USA £500.

These rates included are full cost insurance, premium courier and super-secure packaging (which is not cheap in itself!)

These original 4005's are only going to appreciate over time: the WB's even more so. Don't miss out (again!)

Treat yourself to a dream, "unicorn" bass!