A very rare Kay 5930 'Deluxe' model electric bass guitar, dating from 1965 (made in Chicago, USA).
A beautiful short scale (30') bass produced by Kay in order to compete with its American contemporaries. These models featured a closed hollow body, a feature unique to a lot of Harmony/Kay models of the period which facilitates the hollow body sound, but without the feedback. As such, these guitars are generally lighter than their solid body equivalents and are a joy to play.
This example is near about all original save some minor hardware replacements, those being 1x tuning peg (a meticulously sourced, period-correct oval waffle back repro) the bottom strap button and the bridge guard (which looks like a vintage Fender part). It has otherwise survived incredibly well and retains its cellulose pickguard (these were prone to disintegration). Factory original 'Speed Bump' lone bass pickup, date stamped '65 to its back. The original wooden bridge is included though is rather worn - it is currently sporting a more reliable repro bridge (pictured) with staggered saddles for better intonation (the originals didn't have this). The original will drop straight back in, should you desire.
Sunburst finish is factory original and in good condition with some checking and playing wear, framing the lightly-flamed maple top very nicely.
The neck is a single piece of maple (albeit with a headstock 'wing') with a dark rosewood fingerboard (most likely Brazilian rosewood, at this point of manufacture) and a striking Art Deco 'Kay' faceplate. Truss rod fully working and adjustable, accessed via cover to top of headstock.
It also includes its original chipboard case, a huge rarity in its own right. It is rather weathered - those all latches function, the handle is in tact and it displays the bass rather handsomely.
The sound is phenomenal and rather distinctive - these 'Speed Bump' bass were used on only a handful of models and have a powerful, focused sound - given some wonderful depth by the closed hollow body. The lone volume/tone controls allow for the rolling off of higher ends for an instant Motown sound and it can also be driven for a wonderful modern hollow body sound. Original brass frets in good condition with life left in them.
A unique, original American-made early 60s Kay bass with some real character - complete with its original case.