The Höfner 185 bass guitar was first introduced in 1962 as part of the company’s initiative to expand its line of solid-body instruments, at a time when electric basses were becoming increasingly popular.
 
This model is often compared to the more famous Höfner violin bass, but it is distinct in that it is a solid-body instrument, unlike the hollow-body design of the violin bass. Despite not achieving the iconic status of its hollow-body counterpart, the Höfner 185 carved out a niche for itself, particularly among musicians who appreciated its solid construction and reliable performance.
 
The Höfner 185 was marketed under two different names depending on the distributor. When sold by Selmer, it was known as the "Artist" and when distributed by other companies, it was branded as the "185."
 
This model was, in many ways, Höfner’s answer to the Fender Jazz Bass, which had been introduced just one year earlier in 1961. The 185 was designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, featuring an asymmetrical shape reminiscent of the Fender Jazz Bass. Its double-cutaway body was particularly noteworthy, offering players easier access to the higher frets, which is a desirable feature for bassists who regularly play in higher registers.
 
The body of the Höfner 185 was typically made from solid maple wood, contributing to its robust and powerful tone. The neck, like many solid-body basses from this period, was bolted on, which was a common construction technique for basses of that era. The design of the bass was straightforward but effective, prioritizing playability and tone over flashy aesthetics.
 
In terms of electronics, the Höfner 185 featured same pickups as to those found on the iconic Höfner violin bass. The instrument came equipped with two pickups, offering a versatile range of tones. It also included two rotary volume knobs and two tone controls, allowing musicians to fine-tune their sound. Additionally, from mid-1963 onwards, the 185 was fitted with two slide switches for each pickup, enabling players to switch each pickup on or off individually, providing even more tonal options.
 
Although the Höfner 185 never reached the same legendary status as the Höfner violin bass, it still gained a loyal following among musicians, especially in Europe. Höfner was known for its craftsmanship, and the 185 was appreciated for its solid build and dependable performance, making it a popular choice for working musicians during the 1960s and beyond.
 
This particular Höfner 185 bass is in excellent condition, with only minor paint cracks on the body, a common occurrence in vintage instruments. As is often the case with older Höfner models, the pickups required rewinding to restore them to full functionality. This work has been completed, and the pickups are now in top condition, ready to deliver another 50 years of reliable service.
 
Included with the bass is its original vinyl gig bag, which remains in great condition, offering a fitting protective cover for this vintage instrument.
 
Model : 185
Pickups : original pickups rewound
Pots : dated 105 & 125 (meaning 10th and 12th week of 1965)
Case : orginal vinyl gig bag