1957 Gibson EB-1 - Mod Question [Pic Link Update]

[dc10bass]

Group,

I assume the general consensus about this, but figured I would put it out there...

I have a 1957 Gibson EB-1 that I am considering refinishing like Jack Bruce's EB-1.

I have all the original parts with the exception of;
*Pickguard
*Control Cover
*Input Jack Plate
*Truss Rod Cover

The body is well worn, it also is without a broken headstock.

So the mod would include; removing the finish and giving it a cherry finish, installing different tuners (enlarging the tuner holes) and adding a Schaller bridge.

Thoughts...


Link to Photos:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19HkpQvyx_mG8J1vcD5XYonvlGltnvloK?usp=sharing

[amptech]

Please don't remove the finish!!!! I'd understand if the body was routed or modded, but this....

EDIT: If you do a JB, let me know if you will sell me the brown knobs

[4stringer77]

That old finish is in rough shape. If you do refinish, at least put the f holes back on. These basses look naked without them to me. Good luck and look forward to seeing the outcome if you'd be so kind to share.

[Dave W]

I can't access any of your additional pics, they just try to load but never do, so I can't comment based on the condition. My only advice would be to refinish as original, not cherry, but it's your bass, do what makes you happy.

[dc10bass]

I can't access any of your additional pics, they just try to load but never do, so I can't comment based on the condition. My only advice would be to refinish as original, not cherry, but it's your bass, do what makes you happy.

Hey Dave,

I added a different link, this should work.
Thanks

[Highlander]

Works in the UK... that fin is shot...

[Dave W]

It's definitely worth restoring.

[amptech]

Yeah, I see all pics now and understand the refin thoughts. But do take the time to really decide if it should be original or cherry.
A partial refin is definitely possible with brown/maho, you really have a good solid and unbroken object here, love it!

I don't think cherry looks good on the EB1, as much as I love Jack Bruce.
But don't listen to me, I even hestitate refinishing my SB-300 in anything but turd brown

[doombass]

I can totally understand your thoughts on doing the restoration in Jack Bruce fashion style considering the circumstances regarding what original parts you have and it appears to have been dragged behind a car. Thinking further though I'd guess that except for the Jack Bruce restored EB it will be more associated with an EB-1 with EB pickup than a real 50's EB if you decide to finish it cherry with no pinstripes/f-holes.

[dc10bass]

Thanks for the input, I appreciate it.

For the record I DO have the following Original Parts;
*Pickup & Cover
*Wire Harness (Pots & Caps)
*Control Knobs
*Tuners
*Upper Strap Button and Lower Strap Button Insert

Missing Parts List:
*Pickguard
*Control Cavity Cover
*Truss Rod Cover
*Input Jack Plate
*Telescope Stand

I've owned it for a while and I'm finally getting around to either; giving it a total refinish OR just leaving as is and reassembling it.
...It's fully functional when assembled, just looks rough around the edges.
It's a great piece of history to own, but unfortunately I wouldn't play it much, which is why I thought to give it the,
"Jack Bruce" EB-1 treatment to use in my Cream tribute band.
...I can handle the worn body look, but the front headstock face not being solid black drives me crazy!

[gearHed289]

Man, tough call. I like the JB refin idea. But I also like the reassemble and leave it alone idea. Hmm...

[dc10bass]

Please don't remove the finish!!!! I'd understand if the body was routed or modded, but this....

EDIT: If you da a JB, let me know if you will sell me the brown knobs

HA, Will do.

[the mojo hobo]

I would put it together as-is. You could add some black touch up to the headstock. If you want a JB tribute you could have someone build you one, or use a newer reissue EB. That bass has history.

[dc10bass]

I would put it together as-is. You could add some black touch up to the headstock. If you want a JB tribute you could have someone build you one, or use a newer reissue EB. That bass has history.

That is the path I am leaning towards...
I do Automotive CAD design and had a full scan of this bass... The idea was to have some replicas built using CNC.
Oddly enough I happen to have an extra original 53-58 EB-1 Mudbucker that I can use.

Thanks for the input...
When I sort out the replica build I'll post about it.

[uwe]

I wouldn't refin it either, I think it has aged nicely and honestly. Once you are 62 years old, you are allowed to show some wear and tear and look a little frayed around the edges.