The 1964 Hofner 500/1 Violin Bass Guitar after its first reconditioning but before replacement of Scratch Plate and Tuners in its second restoration in 2002.

A comparison picture of the 1964 500/1 Violin Bass (Right) and 2002 500/1 Cavern Violin Bass (Left)

A close up of the 1964 Hofner clearly showing the reissue bright white pearloid and mis-shaped scratch plate. This plate was fitted by the luther who restored the bass. When the original item was not available he fitted the reissue plate as the closest thing available at the time. The plate become loose after five or so years of gigging.

The Hofner 500/1 during its 2002 restoration with most of the hardware removed. The photo shows the lovely colouring and finish of the body from the original restoration re-finish and the original chrome staple top pickups.

The seperate Hofner tuners on the back of the Hofner headstock, again fitted to the bass during its first restoration. McCartney's 1963 Violin Bass has strip tuners and so the 2002 restoration included a new set of strip tuners! Note the set-list below signed by Bob Bartey and the Hofner pack of strings!

This photo shows the bass minus its seperate tuners and awaiting its new strip tuners. The raised Hofner decal can be clearly seen from the original restoration.

The bass following its 2002 restoration fitted with Hofner strap.

View along the neck of this 1964 vintage instrument

The dished back of the guitar showing the deep flame finish of the 1964 Hofner Violin Bass

The new scratch plate from North Coast Music, USA in place following the recent restoration.

The new Hofner open backed strip tuners again purchased from the American store - North Coast Music.

The 1964 500/1 headstock with new tuners in place.

A close up of the basses electronic control panel and nickel tail-piece.

The Hofner 'Staple top' pickup and Hofner flat-wound strings

The 1964 Hofner 500/1 in its non-standard case following two restoration projects. The bass is soon to be refinished again by Andy Farrel of Kimberly, Nottingham, (0115) 9389965.

A close up of the raised script Hofner Decal.