For Sale: 1978 Fender Jazz Bass Antigua – Vintage CBS Era Original w/ OHSC

Up for sale is a 1978 Fender Jazz Bass in the highly desirable Antigua finish, complete with its original Fender hard-shell case.

This is a very cool and increasingly collectible late-’70s Fender Jazz Bass featuring the unmistakable Antigua finish — one of Fender’s most distinctive and iconic CBS-era color schemes. With its smokey burst-style finish, matching Antigua pickguard, bound maple fingerboard with block inlays, and classic late-’70s Jazz Bass specs, this bass captures everything players and collectors love about the era.

This example is 100% original and remains in very nice overall condition for its age.

Condition

Very Good – 8.5/10

• Light scratches throughout
• Some dings from normal use
• Finish wear on the back of the body
• Wear along the bottom edge of the bass
• Honest vintage cosmetic wear consistent with age

Please review all photos carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.

Everything on the bass is original.

There are no cracks, breaks, or structural issues. The neck is straight and stable, the original frets are in excellent condition with very little wear, and the bass has been professionally set up and plays beautifully up and down the neck.

The original Fender hard-shell case is included and is in very good condition. Both locking latches have been professionally replaced.

Specifications

• Year: 1978
• Serial Number: S8851881
• Finish: Antigua
• Body: Alder
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Maple with Black Binding & Pearloid Block Inlays
• Scale Length: 34"
• Nut Width: 1.50"
• Neck Depth: .92" at the 1st fret, 1.02" at the 12th fret
• Pickups: Original Fender Jazz Bass Single-Coils
• Controls: Volume, Volume, Master Tone
• Bridge: Original Fender Bridge
• Tuners: Original Fender “F” Tuners
• Neck Joint: 3-Bolt with Micro-Tilt
• Weight: 10 lbs 10 oz
• Case: Original Fender Hard-Shell Case

Electronics & Features

One of the standout features of this bass is the iconic Antigua finish package. Originally introduced during the CBS era, Antigua has gone from controversial to extremely collectible and is now one of Fender’s most recognizable vintage finishes.

The combination of the matching Antigua pickguard, bound maple neck with block inlays, and classic late-’70s hardware gives this bass a look that is unmistakably vintage Fender.

This example also retains all of its original electronics and hardware, which is becoming increasingly difficult to find on these older Jazz Basses.

Tone & Feel

This bass delivers the punchy, articulate, and growling tone players expect from a great late-’70s Jazz Bass. The original single-coils offer excellent clarity and definition while still retaining warmth and low-end authority.

The maple fingerboard adds snap and articulation, making this bass especially responsive and lively sounding.

The neck has the substantial late-’70s Fender feel many players love, while still remaining comfortable and easy to navigate. At 10 lbs 10 oz, it has the solid, resonant feel typical of many great vintage Jazz Basses from this era.

Transparency & Photos

As with all Guitar Chimp listings, detailed photos are provided of the actual instrument. At the end of the photo set, you’ll find close-up images taken under direct lighting to highlight any wear. We don’t just describe the condition — we show it in detail so there are no surprises.

Many customers tell us our instruments often arrive in better condition than expected.

Why Buy From Guitar Chimp?

With over 18 years of experience, Guitar Chimp is trusted by players and collectors worldwide for high-quality, player-ready instruments.

Every bass is thoroughly inspected and professionally set up by our in-house luthier.

We are experts at shipping and have safely shipped thousands of guitars and basses all over the world. Every instrument is professionally packed, fully insured, and shipped with signature confirmation.

Buy with confidence knowing your instrument will arrive safely and exactly as described.

📞 Call/Text: (801) 317-9013
💬 Message anytime — always happy to help!

This 1978 Fender Jazz Bass Antigua is a fantastic all-original CBS-era example with iconic styling, classic late-’70s Jazz Bass tone, and tons of vintage character.

🎸 Jerald – Guitar Chimp
Providing The Finest Guitars, Basses & Amps Since 2006