1985 Gibson Explorer Bass - Ferrari Red w/ OHSC

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Up for sale is a KILLER 1985 Gibson Explorer Bass in its original Ferrari Red finish. Produced for only a brief period during the mid-1980s, the Explorer Bass remains one of Gibson’s more elusive solid-body basses, making original examples increasingly difficult to find on today’s market. This bass is an exceptionally original example, retaining its factory pickups, original electronics, untouched factory solder joints, original CTS potentiometers dated to 1985, matching 1985 serial number, and its original Gibson hard shell case. The only non-original parts are the strap buttons, which were replaced at some point during its life.

Finished in its original Ferrari Red, this Explorer Bass presents in excellent vintage condition (technically VG condition). The finish has retained outstanding color and is still vibrant showing minimal cloudiness. It’s clearly been well cared for over the past four decades. Cosmetically, there are scattered dings, light scratches, finish swirling, and honest play wear throughout, all consistent with careful use over forty plus years. The back exhibits some finish worming along with moderate buckle rash, though it cleaned up remarkably well and presents much better in person than one might expect. There is also a shallow dent on the back of the neck behind the first fret that is smooth to the touch and completely unobtrusive while playing. Overall, this is a wonderfully preserved vintage instrument that has never lost its originality or character.

The original Gibson humbuckers deliver the bold, punchy sound these Explorer Basses are known for, with excellent clarity, strong output, and plenty of low-end authority. All electronics function exactly as they should, and it is always reassuring to find an instrument of this age retaining its untouched factory solder joints and original CTS electronics.

This bass was just given a professional setup with a fresh set of 45–100 roundwound strings, so it plays wonderfully with a straight neck, low action, and accurate intonation. The frets are exceptionally clean with virtually no measurable wear and have decades of life remaining.

Specifications:

-Year: 1985

-Finish: Original Ferrari Red

-Scale Length: 34”

-Weight: 10 lbs. 8.1 oz.

-Nut Width: 1.690”

-Neck Thickness:

• 1st Fret: .815”
• 9th Fret: .930”

-Fingerboard: Rosewood

-Pickups: Original Gibson humbuckers

-Electronics: Original CTS potentiometers dated 1985 with untouched factory solder joints

-Strings: New 45–100 roundwounds

-Case: Original Gibson hard shell case

-Modifications: Replacement strap buttons (only non-original parts)

Finding an original mid-1980s Gibson Explorer Bass has become increasingly difficult, particularly one that remains this complete and unmodified. Between its excellent vintage condition, original electronics, original case, exceptionally clean frets, and high level of originality, this represents an outstanding opportunity to acquire one of Gibson’s most uncommon production basses from the 1980s.

This will ship out fully insured, professionally packed, require a signature upon delivery and will be ready to play. We take great pride in accurately representing every instrument we sell and encourage you to review all photos carefully and reach out with any questions prior to purchasing.

—Northside Buy & Sell