Up for sale is an incredibly clean, collector-grade example of the Boss SG-1 Slow Gear.
The 4-digit serial number #8400 dates this unit straight to the very first production batch in July 1979, the exact month the SG-1 was introduced. It was a commercial flop during its brief run, which is why finding an unmolested, functional first-batch unit today is so difficult. It works by cutting out the initial pick attack to create unique, violin-like volume swells.


Condition and Details


Cosmetic Condition: Near mint. Please note that although this pedal is an inky black, I have deliberately taken very bright photos to clearly expose the condition. In regular ambient light, it is hard to spot any blemishes at all.
Internal Integrity: Serial number #8400. Features the highly desirable early silver thumb screw, the internal "skeleton" switch, and the early "long dash" font variant on the chassis. This unit was opened for the very first time just to document the internal components for these photos.


Functionality: 100% working. Pots run smoothly across their full sweep without any scratchiness, and the bypass is completely solid.


Specifications

Model: SG-1 (Slow Gear) — Early "Long Dash" Variation
Serial/Batch Number: #8400 (July 1979, First Production Batch)
Country of Manufacture: Japan (MIJ)
Hardware: Silver thumb screw, skeleton switch, black label.


Operation and Power Notes

The 'Check' Lamp: Please note that the LED illuminates only momentarily when pressing the footswitch down to toggle the effect on or off. This is a battery check light and functions exactly as designed, which is consistent with Boss pedals of this early era. It does not stay lit constantly while the effect is engaged.
Power Requirement: This vintage pedal requires a Boss ACA 12V adapter (or a 9V battery) to operate correctly. Regular modern Boss PSA 9V adapters will not work and will cause the pedal to underpower, resulting in a dim LED and weak or non-existent effect tracking.
Shipping and Logistics


Dispatch Timeline: 

***This is a presale item.*** 

Shipping will commence on or immediately after Monday, 27th July due to current travel.


UK Shipping: Tracked and insured domestic shipping.
International Shipping: Worldwide shipping is possible—please message me for a quote before buying.

Customs: For buyers outside the UK, any import taxes or customs duties levied by your country are the buyer's responsibility.

Handling: Will be securely packed in a sturdy box with plenty of bubble wrap.


Check my feedback and buy with confidence. Let me know if you need any extra details.