The Upton Bass Gallery of Sold Double Basses

Kay M1W

Mattias — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 19:05:01 +0000

This Kay M1W, serial number 6859 is a clean example of a vintage Kay. The build and overall look is typical for the 1940s-50s. The M1W designation is unusual — possibly a short-run variation or contract model Kay produced for a specific order — which makes this one an interesting find.

The bass features what appears to be its original ebony nut, suggesting the fingerboard may also be original. In any case, it’s a solid ebony board in good overall condition. It currently has an aftermarket adjustable bridge that will receive a full set of shop adjustments before it leaves here.

The bass also comes equipped with a Fishman BP-100 pickup to get you started, along with a bow quiver and what seems to be a Meridian cover. The strings on it now are D’Addario Helicores, giving the bass a punchy, lively feel. An upgraded non-original endpin is installed as well — definitely a step up from the factory hardware.

The back has an interesting one-piece veneer with attractive flame, showing normal cosmetic wear for its age, while the top is in very good condition with minimal distortion on the treble side — a great sign on a vintage Kay. The neck has a one-piece heel, and the classic Kluson machines, likely nickel-plated, complete the period-correct look.

Sonically, it has all the characteristics you expect from a well-preserved Kay: thumpy and warm. Once we complete the setup, this bass will be ready to go and playing its best.

Kay Swingmaster 1947

Mattias — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:47:09 +0000

Here’s a beautifully preserved piece of American bass history: a 1947 Kay Swingmaster in remarkably clean condition. The blonde finish glows with vintage character, and the instrument shows just how good these classic Kays can be when they’ve been well cared for.
Usually, when you find a Kay this clean, it’s a much later example, so to see a 1940s Swingmaster in this kind of condition is very special.

This double bass is structurally solid with a healthy top and everything in good working order, and stands out among its peers. Before delivery, it will receive a full Upton Bass setup and inspection, including any needed bridge or fingerboard work, ensuring it plays its absolute best.

A exceptional example of a postwar Kay, ready for another generation of swing, roots, and jazz players to enjoy.

UB Bohemian Laminate (2013)

Mattias — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 18:52:51 +0000

This 2013 Upton UB Bohemian Laminate is a throwback and a piece of Upton Bass history. Built in the early days of the Bohemian line, it showcases the distinctive lines and wide lower bouts that characterize these early laminates. Though the model has evolved since, this bass remains a reliable, well-balanced instrument with a clear, pleasing tone that’s ideal for jazz, bluegrass, or as a student bass.
Set up with Spirocore strings, Rubner tuners, a maple neck, ebony fingerboard, and a Despiau bridge, this bass has been carefully maintained over the years. A new end pin will be installed before sale, ensuring it’s ready for the next player. Number 343 in our 2013 series, this bass comes with a RevSolo pickup and is priced at $4,500.
This is more than just a bass—it’s a timepiece, capturing a formative moment in Upton Bass history while still offering the playability and tone that players expect from an Upton.

Julius Hubička Double Bass

Mattias — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:47:37 +0000

This 1932 Julius Hubička double bass is a fine example of the Czech workshop tradition, built in Prague and very much in the style of a Juzek, right down to the fleur-de-lis detail. It carries all the hallmarks of a well-made Czech factory instrument of the period, with a full, resonant sound and a cool, lived-in character.
The bass has seen some work over the years, including a stable neck repair and retrofitted tuners. A previous owner added small pearl inlays, adding to its funky, one-of-a-kind vibe. The fingerboard is serviceable as-is but could benefit from replacement in time, and we recommend a fresh set of strings to bring out the best in its voice. The string length measures at 42 inches, and we’ll include a proper setup from our shop to dial in the playability.
Offered at $6,000, this Hubička is a strong value for players looking for a reliable gigging or student instrument. It’s the kind of solid Czech bass that will only appreciate with care, standing as a far better investment than a new import. A healthy, clean example with a lot of personality, this is a bass to enjoy now and grow with over the years.

Juzek Master Art 1930

Mattias — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 19:30:38 +0000

This is a 1930 Juzek Master Art double bass. Gig-ready, in great shape. It came in restored by someone who really knew what they were doing. It has a great replacement top, lovely oil varnish, and expert detailing throughout. It has strong arching, nicely cut f-holes, and a neck graft that we’d be proud to call our own. Classic round back Juzek proportions with the well-known broad fleur-de-lis on the back, and all the right patina in the wood.

Features include:

Traditional Prague-style neck set
Flamed maple neck with well executed graft
Thick ebony fingerboard
Dot inlays
Bumpers
Compensating tailpiece
Full Circle pickup
Thomastik Weich A-D-G, Medium E
Good quality endpin

At ~20 lbs and with a 41″ string length, this bass is lively, responsive, and fully gig-ready. A great working bass in top condition. If you’ve been holding out for a great Juzek that’s already dialed in, this is it. Call us to make it yours.

Arnold Schnitzer 5/8 Double Bass

Mattias — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 19:37:40 +0000

Arnold Schnitzer 5/8 Double Bass (2022, No. 56)
American-made, high-end craftsmanship in a smaller scale

We’re proud to offer this remarkable 5/8 size double bass built in 2022 by Arnold Schnitzer. This is instrument number 56 from Arnold’s workshop, built after his move to Las Cruces, New Mexico, and it shows his commitment to making truly professional instruments at every size.

Arnold applied the same level of detail, artistry, and tonal ambition you’d expect in his larger 3/4 or 7/8 models, distilled perfectly into a more compact form. The result is a serious, professional-level bass with a distinctive voice and elegant aesthetic.

Highlights and features:

5/8 size with a comfortable 40-inch string length – ideal for players seeking a responsive, manageable instrument without sacrificing depth or projection.

Pennsylvania walnut back paired with Claro walnut sides. A natural oil varnish finish lets the wood’s beauty speak for itself.
European maple neck and carefully carved spruce top add clarity and warmth
Classic Schnitzer purfling and scroll design.
Rubner individual tuners.
Clear, even tone across the range. Works beautifully for both arco and pizzicato playing.

This smaller bass is built to the same uncompromising standards as Arnold Schnitzer’s larger basses. A perfect choice for a professional player seeking a smaller bass that doesn’t feel like a student or scaled-down model, or for someone looking for a solo instrument that plays effortlessly yet still commands presence.

A rare chance to own a master-built, American-made bass that proves high-level craftsmanship belongs at every size.

Come to the shop to try it out—and experience for yourself what makes this 5/8 Schnitzer so special.

Pöllmann Double Bass by Günter Krahmer

Mattias — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 17:42:50 +0000

We’re excited to share something truly special in the shop: a 1981 Pöllmann double bass crafted by Günter Krahmer, third-generation luthier in the famed family of double bass makers. This bass is on the smaller side – 3/4, nearing 5/8 territory with a 40 1/2 inch string length, but with deep ribs and deep arching, giving it both playability and a strong voice. Conservatory and professional level, complete with a hand-carved ebony C extension Stunning maple and spruce, with shading and wear that tell its decades-long story Violin corners, elegant arching, and a dainty scroll with individual tuners A refined, mature sound reflecting both the maker’s style and careful honing over the years Priced at $35,000, this bass offers remarkable value compared to contemporary instruments from modern workshops—many of which easily reach $50–$60K. [embed]https://youtu.be/nBobWnwCMrA?si=uO-3-ldoUxz3W1HR[/embed]

Czech Double Bass – Late 1920s

Mattias — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 17:22:26 +0000

For Sale including Full Upton Restoration – $10,500

We’re offering this classic late-1920s Czech double bass as a full restoration project from our shop. If you’ve followed us for a while, you’ve heard Gary refer to these as the “New York City jazz basses” – built in Europe, played hard in the city, and still standing tall decades later.

This one has that unmistakable patina: a bit of antiquing when it was first built, and the honest wear from a life of playing ever since. More importantly, it’s got the sound to match.

This sale includes a complete Upton restoration:
– Scroll replacement (we’ll graft a traditional scroll, not just repair the break)
– New ebony fingerboard
– New bridge
– Internal work as needed (top will be removed for full access)

This is your chance to own a generous ¾ bass with the soul of a vintage Czech instrument. It’s not quite a ⅞, but it’s got the body for a big voice. It’s perfect for jazz players who want projection, presence, and style.

Measurements (as it currently sits):

String Length: 41.5″
Back Length: ~43″
Upper Bout: 20.5″
Lower Bout: ~25.5″

If you’re looking for a jazz cannon with vintage character and modern playability, this is a great one. Let us bring it back to life for you.

Anton Schuster Double Bass Mid 50s

Mattias — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 14:51:41 +0000

Broad-grained spruce top, responsive and well-aged.
Maple back & sides – dense and resonant.
Maple neck, with a structurally sound scroll and inconsequential wear.
High-quality ebony fingerboard.
Despiau adjustable bridge.
Thomastik-Infeld Perpetuals are currently installed.
Classic German Wilfer shop model, 3/4 size with deep ribs.
Recent professional setup for previous player.

This instrument shows signs of regular professional use. Cosmetic wear includes a repaired back seam and a visible crack below the bass-side f-hole (stable and addressed as part of recent maintenance). The neck exhibits minor blemishing that does not affect performance. Tonally, the instrument is exceptionally balanced, with a notably warm and rounded sound—significantly fuller than typical examples of this pattern.

The tall bridge enhances projection and articulation, making this bass suitable for orchestral or jazz applications. The former owner carefully maintained and played this bass extensively before upgrading to a higher-tier instrument.

Kay Model 89 Double Bass (c. 1930s)

Mattias — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:00:43 +0000

This Kay Model 89 hails from the 1930s, featuring classic American plywood construction with some unique distinctions. Unlike many Kay basses, this one appears to have a poplar veneer top rather than the more typical spruce veneer—possibly the reason for its Model 89 designation. The bass includes a replaced ebony fingerboard and a relatively new bridge, and has had prior neck repairs including a dowel reinforcement. While it does need some setup work, this is included in the listed price, giving you a well-rounded instrument ready to be dialed in to your preferences. Despite its history, this bass has held its setup solidly for many years with no playability issues reported. It sounds surprisingly good, and has the kind of seasoned character only a well-played Kay can offer. Serial No. 6248 Please note: Shipping for double basses must be quoted individually. If you check out through the website, USPS or UPS may auto-calculate a rate, but neither carrier handles double bass shipments—so these quotes are not valid. For an accurate shipping estimate, please contact us at sales@uptonbass.com or 860 535 9399. We’re happy to help you with all the details before or after your purchase.