The late Jeff Beck’s legendary guitar collection is set to be auctioned, offering music fans the chance to own a piece of rock history—if they have the funds, with some items expected to fetch up to £500,000.
When Beck passed away in January 2023, the UK lost one of its greatest rock talents. His career, which began in the Yardbirds where he replaced Eric Clapton, spanned decades and saw him collaborate with the best in music, including legends like Jimmy Page, Rod Stewart, The Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd. David Gilmour even revealed that he had hoped to bring Beck into Pink Floyd to replace Syd Barrett, but they never had the courage to ask him.
Beck’s collaborations with Tina Turner, Nile Rodgers, Jimi Hendrix, and others showcased his versatility and unique musical style, which fused rock, blues, psychedelia, and even influences from Bulgarian folk music, Indian sitars, and techno.
Christie’s auction house will now host a sale of Beck’s musical gear, which includes over 130 guitars, amps, pedals, and cases—items that were central to his music-making. The auction presents a unique opportunity to explore the instruments that defined his career.
Among the offerings are Beck’s trusted Fender Telecasters and Stratocasters, the guitars he considered his “workhorses.” He famously said of his Stratocaster, “My Strat is another arm, it’s part of me. It doesn’t feel like a guitar at all. It’s an implement which is my voice.” These guitars are expected to sell for £50,000 to £80,000 each.
A major highlight of the auction is Beck’s Oxblood Gibson Les Paul, featured on the cover of his album Blow By Blow, which is estimated to fetch between £350,000 and £500,000. Another standout piece is the “Yardburst” Les Paul, purchased by Beck in 1966.
In addition to the guitars, there’s a chance to acquire Beck’s pedalboard, a crucial part of his live performances, which is expected to go for £3,000 to £5,000—relatively affordable for such a legendary item.
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