The Unparalleled Passion of Guitar Collectors: The Complete Guide.
Some people never seem to get enough of the things they love. For those people, a collection serves as a reflection of their passion and a project to build and curate. Guitar collectors make up a large segment of musicians, with a shared passion for the instrument, its evolution, its unique design, and the exclusive rarity of some of its parts.
This guide will explore the world of guitar collecting, from understanding the different styles and eras of guitars to find the perfect piece for your collection to tips for keeping your guitars in the best condition possible. This guide will also take a look at where to find specialty guitars, how to assess their condition, and the exclusive experiences available to those who collect guitars.
When it comes to the different styles of guitars, there’s a lot to consider. Electric guitars are the quintessential rock and roll instrument and come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Vintage electric guitars come in a range of finishes and styles—from stratocasters to explorers—, usually featuring a solid body shape, single-coil and/or humbucking pickups, and a range of controls. Acoustic guitars are usually associated with folk-inspired music, but they’re more versatile than you might think. From classical guitars to larger 12-string jumbos, and 12 fret soundhole instruments, acoustic guitars come in all shapes and sizes. Collectors will often gravitate towards the most eye-catching examples, including vintage Martin and Gibson models, before investing in newer acoustic models built by luthiers.
When buying vintage guitars, it’s important to consider the condition of the instrument. Factors like wear and tear, wood quality, fret wear, headstock repair, and overall condition as well as authenticity must all be taken into consideration when deciding on a guitar to purchase. Authenticity is especially important; since buyers are unlikely to have an expert to identify the guitar, it’s good practice to take the time to investigate the seller and be aware of potential red flags.
Guitar collecting usually involves an investment both in terms of money and time. Once you’ve collected what you perceive as your perfect guitars, take the time to keep them in the best condition possible. Store guitars securely in humidity controlled cases and perform small maintenance tasks such as cleanings, humidifying and string changes regularly. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with new strings or pick-ups to find the best combination for your instrument.
The world of guitar collecting is an exclusive one, offering experiences and stories you won’t find anywhere else. From conventions and auctions to private collectors and vintage markets, there are plenty of unique ways to buy, sell, and trade guitars. Taking part in the guitar community can lead to some of the most interesting experiences of your life and provide access to rare and incredible guitars across the globe.
Guitar collecting takes passion and dedication, but it’s worth it if you intend to keep those beautiful instruments in their best condition, increase their value and appreciate the sounds they make. The journey of collecting can be as enjoyable as the destination, so take the time to locate that perfect addition to your collection and continually learn and explore the fabulous world of guitars.