Early electric versions of Hofner models can be roughly dated by some of the components used. In particular, the rectangular and oval consoles were fitted with Preh brand volume control potentiometers - pots, which carry a manufacture date in code on them.

Is paul McCartneys Höfner bass the original?

The instrument is Paul McCartneys first bass guitar, a Höfner 500/1 model that he purchased in 1961. Being left-handed, he custom ordered his first bass, a Hofner 500/1, through the Steinway shop in Hamburg, Germany during a two month residency at the Top Ten Club.

How do you date a Höfner bass?

Pot Code Dating: Pots are date coded with the first 2 digits representing the week and the next digit representing the year. The only problem is that the code repeats every 10 years. For example a code 259 would be 25the week of 1969, 79 or 89 so you will have to use a variety of data to date your Hofner Bass.

Where is Hohner guitars made?

HohnerTypePrivateHeadquartersTrossingen, Baden-Württemberg , GermanyArea servedWorldwideProductsCurrent: Harmonicas, melodicas, accordions, recorder flutes Former: Kazoos, electric, acoustic, resonator and classical guitars, basses, mandolins, ukulelesWebsitehohner.de4 more rows