Article by George Gruhn

by Tom Watson

An article by George Gruhn, Factors That Influence the Value of a Collectible Instrument, has been added to the Info Desk. A must read for those interested in collectible guitars.

Gruhn identifies nine key factors that affect a collectible instrument's value: maker; model; age; condition; originality; supply vs. demand; sound and playability; prior precedent; and, memorabilia.

"Collectible instruments" is a highly subjective topic and those of us with an interest in the subject have to appreciate Gruhn's efforts to lend it a more objective framework. This is especially true when trying to place a dollar value on what is often a "one-of-a-kind" instrument.

When contemplating the purchase of a collectible guitar, the buyer is faced with two tough questions (three if we include how to justify it to the spouse): what is the instrument's true current market value (compared to the seller's asking price), and, what is the appreciation (or depreciation) potential of the instrument?

The underlying answer Gruhn's article supplies is "knowledge is power." Fortunately, increasing your knowledge about collectible guitars is also a major part of the enjoyment of collecting. And when it comes time to negotiate with a seller or buyer, it certainly helps to be articulate about the factors affecting the instrument's value.