The Pursuit of the Perfect Guitar: A Guide for Collectors.
Guitar collecting has been a passion of many musicians and non-musicians alike for decades now. Not only are they passionate about the look and feel of the instrument, but they are also seeking out the rare and unique gits that few others own. The exploration in finding and owning these special pieces is endlessly satisfying and fulfilling. From the most pristine vintage guitars to the most eccentric custom stringed works, the thrill of discovering and obtaining that one special guitar is one of the highest of musical prizes.
Whether you’re a lifetime collector looking for your next special find or a fledgling enthusiast just beginning the journey, this guide to guitar collecting is here to help. We’ll start with a few basics and then move onto some deeper aspects of collecting. By the end, you’ll be ready to go on a search of your own or make your current collection even more unique and desirable.
What to Consider When Collecting Guitars
When collecting guitars, there are several considerations you’ll want to take into account before making any decisions. Depending on the type of collection you’re building, some of these will be more pertinent than others, but it’s wise to at least take each of these points into consideration before you pull the trigger and make your purchase.
The Type of Guitar
The type of guitar you purchase should be the foundation of your collection. Are you looking for classical instruments like the harpsichord or lute? Or maybe you’re interested in electric guitars and gear like the Les Paul or Stratocaster. Knowing the type and style of instrument you’re looking for can streamline your search and help you make better decisions when it comes to acquiring your finds.
The Condition of the Guitar
When purchasing a vintage or custom guitar, it’s important to thoroughly inspect and evaluate its condition. Premium pre-owned guitars should look and feel as close to new as possible, and any cosmetic flaws or imperfections should be taken into account and considered prior to any purchase. For vintage instruments, you’ll want to pay special attention to the fret board and neck to make sure they’re in good condition.
The Playability of the Guitar
Playability is a major factor when it comes to guitar collecting. You’ll need to consider how the guitar plays and sounds when deciding whether or not to make your purchase. This shouldn’t be a problem if you’re buying from a trusted seller, but you may want to test out any vintage or custom guitars yourself before buying.
The Cost of the Guitar
When dealing with guitars, the price can often rise very quickly. If you’re collecting rare finds or custom-built instruments, you may want to budget accordingly and do your research to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. But don’t let the price tag be a deterrent – you’ll likely get far more in return for the enjoyment and pride you’ll have in owning a special instrument.
Where to Find the Best Guitars
When it comes to finding the best guitars for your collection, your options are endless. However, you may want to consider some of the more popular avenues for finding rare and interesting models.
Vintage Stores
Vintage stores are one of the best places for finding some rare and unusual instruments. You may also find some vintage-style guitars that have been recently crafted, offering a modern twist on classic pieces.
Online Stores and Auctions
Online stores and auction sites are a great option if you’re looking to save some money or compare prices. You can often find amazing deals through online sellers and auctions, although you’ll want to be sure to do your research to make sure you’re getting a legitimate product.
Musical Instrument Stores
Local music instrument stores are also a great option for finding unique guitars. You can often find pieces that may not be available online or visit a custom builder in person to discuss your options. Plus, by buying in person you’ll also get to take advantage of any special deals on select instruments.
Guitar Collectors Clubs
If you’re looking for rare gems and premium guitars, you may want to check out local guitar collectors clubs. These clubs often hold meetups and gatherings, exchanging rare items and insights into collecting. Plus, you may make some lifelong friends along the way.
Tips for Building a Successful Collection
When it comes to building a successful collection, there are some tips and tricks you’ll want to keep in mind. Depending on the type of collection you’re building, some of these may be more relevant to you than others.
Set a Goal for Your Collection
Before you start acquiring guitars, you’ll want to set a goal for your collection. Are you looking to collect a specific style or type of instrument? Maybe you’re looking to get a broad variety of vintage pieces across multiple genres or create a portfolio of custom builds. Knowing what you’re aiming for can help you make better decisions when it comes to acquisitions and can help keep your collection from becoming too cluttered.
Research the Instruments
Researching the instruments and the makers behind them can often yield some pretty interesting results. Not only will you get to know more about the instruments, but you’ll also be able to put a face and a story behind each piece in your collection. This can add a personal touch to your instruments and make them feel far more unique and special.
Buy Quality Pieces
When it comes to building a successful guitar collection, quality is key. Sure, you may find some unique items when thrift shopping or at online auctions, but buying quality pieces will often yield much better results in the long run. High-quality guitars will maintain their value far better than their lower-quality counterparts, meaning you’ll likely get more in return when you decide to sell them.
Maintain Your Collection
Finally, it’s important to maintain your collection. This means regular cleaning, tuning and restringing, plus being sure to store your instruments in a safe and secure environment. Doing regular maintenance will ensure that your guitars will stay in top condition and look their best as they become treasured additions to your collection.
Conclusion
Collecting guitars can be an incredibly rewarding experience for any music enthusiast. Whether you’re a lifetime collector, a novice looking to start a collection, or just looking for a quality instrument for your own musical endeavors, this guide to guitar collecting should have given you the insights you need to make informed decisions and build a quality collection of your own. With a little research, patience, and dedication, your dream collection is within reach.