A beautiful Watkins Rapier bass guitar, made in England (Dartford, Kent) circa 1965.
 
These are phenomenally underrated basses, every bit a 60s classic as their American counterparts.
 
The guitar dates from 1965, being one of the earlier 4-digit serial number, which runs concurrent to other guitars built in '65.
 
It is a full-scale bass, loaded with 2x Watkins pickups and a novel notched pickup dial, offering a variety of pickup combinations.
 
Finished in the very rare 'Powder Blue' option, of which I've only ever seen a handful of (the more common colours seem to be Watkins Red, and a later Sunburst variant).
 
It is rare still for being built without an upper horn plaque, which would usually adorn the Watkins/WEM logo. This bass was produced during the period in which Watkins changed their name to WEM (Watkins Electrical Music), accounting for the above. 
 
This bass is all original, with nothing in the way of changed parts, repairs or issues. There are some marks as pictured, though it has clearly been fairly well looked after. As with most Watkins instruments, the lacquer has aged with checking to the common areas as pictured. 
 
Plays wonderfully with a comfortable action, good (original) frets and some beautiful sounds to be had from the dual pickups and their various switching options.
 
An all original Great British classic in a highly desirable finish.