I am considering purchasing an ATK five string 750 bass. I know this was never a production item. It has a mahogany body and wenge neck. It looks stellar.

Is there any way to tell if it really was made in the custom shop?
Are custom shop basses made to last or are they high performance pro instruments made to be used for a tour and then disposed of?

I know in many other industries (sports industries) pro level gear is made for high performance and since the pro doesn't pay for it, the gear is meant to be replaced often.

Could this bass really be worth a huge amount of money? I don't want to collect it, I want to play it. How much difference might there be between a custom shop bass and a stock bass?


Thanks.

in instruments, especially stringed, they are meant to have long-term use. if it is in good condition, it should last a while and prove to be a great buy.

Thanks, that's what I was hoping to hear. Unfortunately I'll be buying online with no chance to play it before the purchase. The price the guy is asking is quite a premium for an ATK, even a five string. With no proof that it is a custom shop, and no chance to see and try the neck and fretwork, I am apprehensive.