The Obsession with Collecting Guitars: Beyond the Strumming and Fretting.
From the bluesy rhythms of BB King to the polished, modern day sounds of John Mayer, the guitar has become an undeniable part of popular music culture. Yet, many devoted fans harbor an even deeper appreciation for the instrument. To them, the guitar is something to be cherished, collected, and proudly displayed. For these enthusiasts, collecting guitars is more than just a hobby; it’s a passion that drives them to seek out and amass the most impressive and interesting pieces.
The guitar collecting boom began in earnest in the mid 1980s, thanks in part to the growing availability of collectible, vintage instruments. As guitar craftsmanship and tools improved over time, the instrument’s quality rose and it gained even more of a cultural significance. Along with this came an increased fascination and interest in collecting guitars.
Nowadays, collecting guitars is a legitimate pastime, and players at all levels—from the seasoned professionals to the newbie collectors—are increasingly looking to acquire vintage and custom-made instruments, sometimes simply to admire them. Serious collectors go a step further, often judging their instrument collections not only on tone and feel, but also on rarity and artistic value.
For guitar enthusiasts, there is no shortage of guitars to choose from. From beautifully made vintage and modern guitars to special edition guitars and custom models, a collector’s options are nearly limitless. Whether they choose a Gibson Les Paul electric guitar or a Fender Stratocaster, an acoustic Martin dreadnought or a Höfner bass, collectors need to make sure they get the best quality instruments—keeping in mind the guitar’s age, sound quality and construction.
The guitars most sought after by serious collectors tend to be highly sought-after vintage guitars—like a Gibson SG or Fender Telecaster—or custom-built guitars from well-known makers. Collectors also look for instruments made from rare materials, such as exotic tone woods, as well as hand-crafted details like inlays and electronics.
For those who are looking to become serious guitar collectors, there are a few essential tips to follow. First, do plenty of research and arm yourself with knowledge about the different types of guitars and the makers that craft them. Second, learn the basics of guitar maintenance so you know how to properly care for your instrument. Lastly, be sure to shop around to find the best prices and make sure you’re getting the best deals.
For passionate guitar lovers, collecting guitars is an incredible way to express their love and appreciation for the instrument. However, it’s important that they view it as an investment, because some collectors eventually come to realize that the value of their collection far outweighs the sentiment it was bought with. Besides, what better way to preserve the marvels of the instrument’s culture and history than to adorn your walls with a priceless collection of exclusive and unique guitars?