Guitar Collectors: How to Get the Most Out of Your Collection.
Guitars can be one of the most satisfying investments a collector can make. From rescuing vintage gems to amassing rare and unique beasts, the hobby can be rewarding and entertaining. Buying, selling, or trading guitars is a great way to acquire rare finds and score some bargains, whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newbie looking for your first instrument.
For a successful and enjoyable guitar collection experience, here are some tips for collectors to consider:
Research:
Before you buy a guitar, it’s important to know what you’re getting. Research can be vital for investing in a collectable instrument, to ensure you get a worthwhile return on your purchase. Arm yourself with information and get familiar with the model, how to date it, known copies and historic prices – this will ensure you don’t pay over the odds for something you’ll later regret. Online resources like The Official Vintage Guitar Price Guide and the Rare Guitar Books blog are invaluable tools in the beginner’s tool kit.
Know Your Budget:
Guitar collecting can be either expensive or economical, depending on your budget. Set your limits before you start looking so you can focus on guitars within your range. Good advice is to include an extra 10% of your budget in case you come across an unexpected bargain or you spot an additional instrument you feel you simply can’t pass up.
Choose Quality:
It pays to be discerning and seek out quality guitars that you can be proud to display. If it’s worth your money and investment, it should sustain its value over time. Research the elements that can affect quality and a guitar’s value, such as its body texture, the neck joint, the condition of its hardware and electronics, original case, and any modifications to its appearance.
Find the Right Venues:
Your local music shop may not always have the best stock, so widen your search and consider online resources as well as second-hand dealers and music fairs. Online marketplaces like Reverb.com and eBay are excellent resources for finding rare and unique instruments, but try to meet the seller first if possible, to inspect the guitar first-hand. For rarer finds, attending auctions might prove useful, but it’s advised to not get too carried away to avoid spending more than you can afford.
Preservation:
A lot of time, effort and expense is invested in a guitar collection so it pays to know how to best look after your instruments to ensure they stay in pristine condition. Handle with care, clean regularly, and store away from direct sunlight and humidity, which are poor preservatives. Replace broken parts and repair over the years to keep its integrity intact.
For newbies and seasoned collectors alike, guitar collecting can be an exciting and rewarding pastime. To make the most out of your collection, following some simple do’s and don’ts can make all the difference to your hobby and preserve the value of your instruments. Enjoy your collecting journey.