Recap on the Hart/Fendt mystery

[Ken Smith]

I visited my Hart/Fendt Bass yesterday up at Arnold's. The Top is mostly done. The Back mainly done. The Ribs about a week from completion and then it's assembly time. With what I see left to do including some Scroll/Peg Box repairs, Neck-set, FB, Br., Ext.. etc etc etc... I expect to have this Bass sometime this Fall.

Still, I can't say for sure if it is a J.Hart or B.Fendt Sr. Bass but with the Stamps inside from Hart, we are leaning in that direction. Either way, it's the same Bass sound wise, pedigree value, playability and condition. In addition, this Bass is the most complete Bass I have had to date as far as all the parts and conditions being 100% original from the Shoulders to the Scroll to the Varnish. It has some major Rib and Top repairs but other that that, it's the 'real 'McCoy!

PS: I have the original Corner Block (other 3 still in the Bass) and the Tailblock that was replaced as well. The matching Neck Block is still in use.