Vintage, Rare And Collectable Guitars
Perth, West Australia
AUSTRALIA'S NUMBER 1 VINTAGE GUITAR DEALER!!
Back to Home-Page WHAT MAKES A VINTAGE INSTRUMENT?
Age alone is not the determining factor in what makes an investment grade
instrument. Guitars, mandolins and banjos are judged by maker, model, age,
degree of originality, structural and cosmetic condition, historical
importance, rarity, and sound and playability. Instruments by the finest
makers exhibit design, structural and cosmetic workmanship, materials, and
sound and playability which set them apart from their competitors. Just as
art collectors may specialize in the works of various artists, guitar, banjo
and mandolin collectors frequently specialize. Most specialize in
instruments suited for the type of music which they most enjoy.
From 1985 to the present, market prices for vintage instruments have escalated considerably. A few of the most sought-after models have gone up in price as much as 1000%. The fact remains however that many models are still very reasonably priced, and in fact, cost no more than and in some cases less than a modern replica.
Vintage and used instruments are available from a great variety of sources such as auctions, flea markets, classified ads and mail order dealers. Just as with any other collectible it is critically important for the buyer to have product knowledge or to confine his dealings to reputable dealers who will provide written certification of authenticity and appraisal. While it is certainly true that there are occasional bargains to be found at auctions and flea markets or from private sellers, unless one has the knowledge to properly identify, appraise and determine originality of the pieces there is a great potential for loss (buyer beware). Just as product knowledge is critically important in collecting art, oriental rugs, jewellery, coins, stamps, or any other collectible the same is true with fretted instruments. Knowledge is power.