Congrats James. That is an awesome top on that bass.
 
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James, I think the Rubber ring is in right place. The idea seems to be protecting wood finish at the Jack (as you could harm it while tightening the screw).
 
Nice Top, I really dug the change in wood patern near the Bridge. It creates a 3-D illusion at Bass bottom.

James, I believe I found your bass when it was just a slab of wood....
 
You might find this very valuable over the years to see the origin. If this is not the wood, it sure looks like it...
 
Click the link below and be amazed...
 
http://club.alembicguitars.net/Images/2344/2766.html?1040418241

Very cool indeed, and almost certainly from the same hunk of burl, but I don't think this could be the very same piece. Firstly, the dimensions are off a little, this piece doesn't have the same area of smooth that my Europa has. But the most telling clue is the date on Mica's post, 2002, and my Europa has a 1997 birthdate.

Now that I think about this, WOW! you got your bass from Ebay right?
 
What are the odd of having a picture like this? I really hope this is the original wood, because I believe this makes your bass, that much more special... Is this true?

Remember, you can't go by the date because sometimes it takes years to create a dream. But maybe this is a start for you to ask Mica and see if she has more information. The pattern is very close, I am sure your bass came from that tree.
 
This is exciting, please update us your findings. You have such a beautiful bass, it's worth the the research... What a discovery, if true. Being a club member has it's perks.