“The Dedicated Guitar Collectors: Prideful Passion for the Inimitable Instrument.”
The sound of the guitar resounds in an innumerable amount of musical genres, from blues, rock and roll, jazz, to classical and flamenco. To the dedicated collector, guitars are much more than magnificent instruments: they become prized investments and lifelong passions. There’s something truly unique and timeless about the beautifully crafted pieces of stringed art; every shape, style, and individual variation of a guitar holds a story, a character, and a presence that you won’t find anywhere else. This article is here to explore the beautiful world of the committed guitar collector and provide insight into the culture and dedication to well-crafted instruments.
Whether you’re an avid antique enthusiast, long-time musician or enterprising investor, this article covers a range of areas to help discern between the different types of guitars and how to find the right pieces for your collection. We’ll look briefly into the various styles, ages, prices and availability of coveted rare vintage guitars as well as provide useful tips and advice for making wise and savvy purchases. By the end of this article, you’ll be a knowledgeable collector and well on your way to adding a wonderful new piece to your personal collection.
Types of Guitars for Collectors
The type and style of guitar that you’ll be looking for largely depends on the scope of your collection. Generally speaking, there are several types of guitar that collectors look for. There are the classic models of the 1930s such as Gibson L-0s, Martin ‘Dreadnoughts’ and Gretsch archtop guitars alongside the 70s-era Gibson Les Pauls, Fender Strats and Teles. Moving into more modern times, Epiphone, Ibanez and ESP are just some of the highly sought-after modern guitars produced in the past two decades.
For any dedicated collector, rarity and condition are two of the most important factors when selecting guitars for their collection. An instrument that seen a range of wear and tear, has questionable parts or features, or appears to be a ‘knock-off’ the genuine article will not be at the top of the wishlist. Truly valuable, coveted guitars are those that are still in their original condition, are made from premium materials, and/or are produced by top-tier manufacturers.
When searching for guitars, take your time to research the different manufacturers, styles and models, and price range. This will help you to make a well-informed decision when choosing a guitar, as well as ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
Vintage vs Modern Guitars
Vintage guitars are those models made before 1970, which come with an inherent status, patina and ‘character’ that modern guitars simply don’t possess. While modern guitars can be quite fine instruments, their production is made faster and cheaper than vintage guitars, and the attention to craftsmanship and detail of those guitars made in the golden era can’t be matched.
It’s important to note that vintage guitars are expensive collector’s items and should be valued as such. As such, it would be wise to seek the advice of a qualified luthier and guitar expert before purchasing any vintage instrument.
Also, because of their high prices, many collectors opt for new vintage-style guitars instead, which come with the quality construction and workmanship of their classic predecessors. New vintage-style guitars are perfect way to add a timeless instrument to your collection without the hefty price tag that comes with a genuine vintage piece.
Where and How to Buy Guitars
The most straightforward answer to where you can buy guitars is ‘anywhere’ but finding the perfect piece requires a bit of sleuthing. As with most collectibles, antique and vintage guitars can be found through reputable sellers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Many specialist guitar stores will have a good selection of old and new instruments, as will auction sites like eBay and Reverb.
When it comes to online shopping for guitars, be sure to look for reviews, feedback, and credentials of the seller before taking the plunge. An instrument that looks too good to be true probably is, so use your best judgement when shopping online.
When shopping in person, look for a reputable dealer that has a good eye for rare pieces and keeps their guitars in top condition. Don’t be afraid to check the condition of the guitar and ask for a certificate of authenticity for any vintage instrument you’re considering.
Guitar Price Ranges
The prices of guitars can range widely depending on the type and rarity of the instrument, as well as the condition and reputation of the seller or manufacturer. New guitars can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars and are generally priced according to make and model.
Vintage guitars, however, tend to cost quite a bit more. Vintage Fender guitars can cost anything from the low thousands up to tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and rarity. Many highly sought-after models, such as the iconic pre-CBS ‘strat’ of the mid 1960s, can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
Knowing What You Want
One of the most important factors when collecting guitars is having a good understanding of what you’re after. Identifying model types and researching the specifications of various guitars will help you to make an intelligent purchase decision.
Take your time to understand the different variables that go into determining the value of a guitar, such as its condition, age and model, so you know if you’re getting the guitar you want at a reasonable price.
Appreciating the Instrument
Guitars are incredible pieces of art and should be respected, cared for, and cherished. As an avid collector, it pays to understand the instrument and appreciate its craftsmanship in every respect. There should be a passion and appreciation behind the collection of any item, and the same is true for collecting guitars.
The guitar is a beautiful instrument and its importance to music cannot be denied. Behind every special piece, whether vintage or modern, competes a story that still resounds in the sound of the strings. To the dedicated collector, guitars are much more than a means of creating music – they’re a representation of cultural discovery, excitement and belongingedness to a timeless art form.
Start Your Collection
Guitar collecting is a passion for many; it’s a chance to invest in a piece of timeless art and have something to admire and appreciate for years to come.
Whether you’re an avid enthusiast, long-time musician or enterprising investor, starting a guitar collection today is easier than ever before with the abundance of vintage guitars available in today’s market. Do your homework and research, visit reputable dealers and musicians, search online and take time to examine the various aspects of guitars to ensure you’re making the best possible choice.
Guitars may have different shapes, sizes and styles, but they’re all made from the same strings and passion – the ideal combination for a life-long investment in musical excellence.