David Bowie, ft. Space Oddity * SUPERB MINT- CONDITION * PHILIPS UK 1st Press *

	£		2,241
	$		2,674

David Bowie - David Bowie
I am pleased to offer for sale this exceptional, archive quality UK 1st pressing of David Bowie's eponymously titled second studio album.
The LP is the second self-titled LP released by Bowie. The first, released by Decca subsidiary, Deram, was a commercial flop and led to Bowie being released by Decca. In an attempt to revitalise Bowie's career, his manager, Kenneth Pitt, commisioned a promotional film for which Bowie recorded 'Space Oddity'. Upon hearing the new track, Mercury signed Bowie to their imprint label, Philips. Wary of only a small number of copies were issued in the initial release. Later represses were distributed by RCA Victor.
The record for sale is one such album. Incredibly, it is found in superb MINT- condition! It would be extremely difficult to upgrade from this.
Album Details:
Serial number: SBL 7912
Matrix number: 852146 1Y // 2 / 852146 2Y // 2
Stamper codes: 1 1 1 / 1 1 2
Vinyl Weight: 145g 

The matrix numbers inform us that the record is a true UK first pressing. The mother & stamper codes suggest that the vinyl was pressed extremely early on in the production cycle. Consequently, the audio has superb definition and clarity. Take a listen yourself below!
The vinyl has the 1st variant Philips labels identifiable by Essex Music Int. Ltd publishers credit for all songs.
This gatefold sleeve is the first variant. Later copies were not gatefold and feature a changed cover art.
The album is complete with the original polythene lined die-cut inner sleeve. 
Condition:
The condition report provided below is given as a guide only. I include high-quality, comprehensive photographs as well as a complete audio recording in my listings to enable you to make an informed decision on the condition of this record yourself. 
Vinyl: MINT -
Labels: EX +
The labels are bright, clean and without writing. A small number of spindle marks are visible to either side.
Visual: EX +
The vinyl displays immaculate 'factory-fresh' deep-gloss playing surfaces. In bright daylight there are no visible surface marks. Underneath a halogen desk lamp a few barely visible wispy hairlines can be seen alongside an iridescent rainbow shine. Truly outstanding. 
Sound Quality: MINT - 
Please use eBay's internet site to enjoy the audio clips. The eBay app does not facilitate playback.
Side 1:

Side 2:

As can be heard in the recordings, the heavy-weight vinyl sounds simply superb. The record has clearly only ever been played on good quality equipment. The lead-ins are quiet. There is minimal noise in between tracks. The record plays with distinction and clarity throughout. The bass is punchy, the vocals are crisp and clear and the instrumentation is well defined. It's great.
Sleeve: EXCELLENT 
The sleeve looks fantastic. All four sides are bright and clean. The cover art maintains vibrant colours. There is subtle rubbing to the bottom of the front side. The corners show subtle signs of storage wear. The spine is without wear. 
Inner Sleeve: EXCELLENT 
The original inner sleeve is in great condition. It is clean, without writing and with only minimal creasing.
Additional Details:
Before the audio test, the vinyl was cleaned first by an Okki Nokki vacuum cleaner (using L'art du Son cleaning solution) and then an Audio Desk ultrasonic cleaner.
After cleaning, the vinyl is housed inside a brand new mobile fidelity anti-static inner sleeve. 
The vinyl will be packaged outside of the sleeve, both of which are stored inside an archival quality polypropylene outer sleeve.
The record will be sent via an insured courier in a padded vinyl mailer.

Please see my other listings for more Beatles rarities.
Bidders with less than ten feedback please get in touch before bidding otherwise your bid will be removed.