My 24 dollar early patent # pickup

[Toecutter]

I received a package today from an EBAY auction that I won. The auction was an assortment of parts, some fender knobs, etc. Also listed in the auction was "An old 60's Gibson humbucker (busted)” (as it was listed in the auction). When it arrived I looked at the pickup and nearly shit when at first I thought it was a PAF, due to the sticker on the back being in sad shape. Upon closer inspection, I determined that it was a very early version of a Patent number (non T-top) pickup. It had two major problems, one being it measured open on an Ohm meter, second problem, is one of the ears on the metal plate is gone. Replacing the shielded hook up wire easily solved the first problem, it now measures 7.75K! I still have to deal with the missing ear, but that's almost trivial at this point. Anybody have any ideas for replacing the ear?

Anyway the auction cost me $24.52 + $5.00 shipping. :lol2 :lol2 :lol2

Here are some pics I took of it.


http://www2.freepichosting.com/Images/69073/0.jpg
http://www2.freepichosting.com/Images/69073/1.jpg
http://www2.freepichosting.com/Images/69073/2.jpg
http://www2.freepichosting.com/Images/69073/3.jpg

 

[plaintop]

You bastid! :nut

That's at least an $800 pickup. Wait until you hear it in your guitar. spin Do you have any other vintage pickups?

 

[Sunburst79]

Really only two choices, find an Original Base plate $$$

Or use a current Gibson base plate which is not correct,

My Money says use a current base plate and enjoy the pickup, and start searching for a Pat# base plate.

Perhaps a forum member has one in a parts box and will help you out.

I wonder if there is any way of Loosening the old decal up and transfering it to a new base plate.

 

[Sunburst79]

Congrats on the unexpected luck.

I love those pickups!

 

[Toecutter]

Thanks guys. Yeah, I’m pretty ecstatic about it. I managed to fix the broken ear by fabricating a small ear/plate that extends about a 1/2 inch onto the base plate. I drilled it to match the two brass Phillips screws (to hold the plate to the pup). This way I didn't have to modify the base. It's going into my 2000 R9 tomorrow! I can't wait to hear what it sounds like.
I guess this just proves there's still hidden treasures out there

 

[plaintop]

Let us know how it sounds. I bet you'll be enriched with tone!

 

[Toecutter]

I put the pup in my R9 (in the bridge position) last night. All I can say I wow! Pure PAF like tone, just amazing! When switching between the 57 classic (neck), and the Patent # pup, two things I noticed. One, the output is a little bit lower then the 57 classic. Two, the classic sounds like pure mud (I used to think it sounded pretty good). All in all, I think I got my moneys worth. :lol2

When I get a chance, I'll record some sounds and post them.

:dude

 

[Wiggy]

I love it when this shit happens

Congrats dude!

 

[RickN]

Yahoo! I love stories like this! I guess I'll start scouring 'junk' auctions more closely!

Congrats! :dude