New for 2023, the Fender Custom Shop introduces the ’63 Jazz Bass Journeyman Relic. Exactly 60 years after its groundbreaking (and ground shaking) predecessor, the instrument is loaded with looks, sound and vibe that expertly evoke the Jazz Bass in one of its earliest incarnations.

The sleek two-piece select alder body wears Journeyman Relic lacquer finishes in Aged Fiesta Red, Aged Aztec Gold and Faded Aged Sonic Blue. This special treatment imparts the look of a bass that has changed hands or been handed down over the years, mostly played around the house and the occasional jam session or weekend gig. This generally well-cared-for look includes light finish checking, several “friendly” down-to-the-wood nicks and dings, some dulling of the hardware, and general moderate playing wear. The look of a very lucky find, in short.

The quartersawn maple neck has a ’60s-style “U” profile, topped by a 7.25”-radius round-lam rosewood fingerboard with 20 medium vintage (47095) frets and a bone nut. Beneath those cool early-’60s-era chrome covers sit two Custom Shop hand-wound Vintage Jazz Bass pickups that deliver prominent and tight low-end and guttural midrange growl.

Other premium features include vintage volume-volume-tone wiring, three-ply mint green pickguard, four-saddle vintage-style bridge with chrome cover, vintage-style tuners, disc string tree, deluxe hardshell case, strap and certificate of authenticity.