London is the temporary home of a rock-and-roll treasure trove as some of the most iconic guitars in music history go on display. These legendary instruments, which belonged to the late guitar virtuoso Jeff Beck, will soon find new owners as they head to auction on January 22.
Christie’s, the esteemed auction house, offered a preview of the collection on Tuesday. Starting Wednesday, fans and enthusiasts alike can marvel at 90 guitars and dozens of other memorabilia from Beck’s remarkable career. Often hailed as “the ultimate guitarist’s guitar hero,” Beck passed away in January 2023 at 78, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy in music.
A Life in Strings
Jeff Beck was a towering figure among the guitar icons of the 1960s, a group that included Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, and Jimi Hendrix. Twice inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame—first with the Yardbirds and later as a solo artist—Beck carved a unique niche with his improvisational mastery and groundbreaking sound. His collaborations read like a hall of fame themselves, featuring names such as Rod Stewart, David Bowie, Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, and Johnny Depp.
The Collection: A Tribute to a Legacy
The guitars on display tell the story of a lifetime devoted to pushing the boundaries of music. The collection is valued at over £1 million ($1.2 million), with standout items including:
- An oxblood 1954 Gibson Les Paul, purchased by Beck in Memphis in 1972 and prominently featured on the cover of his Grammy-winning 1975 album Blow by Blow. This piece is expected to fetch between £350,000 and £500,000 ($425,000–$610,000).
- A Telecaster-Gibson hybrid “Tele-Gib”, valued at £100,000–£150,000 ($122,000–$183,000).
- A 1954 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster, estimated at £50,000–£80,000 ($61,000–$98,000).
Each guitar is not only a piece of rock history but a reflection of Beck’s unmatched artistry and taste.
A Parting Gift
For Sandra Beck, Jeff’s widow, the decision to part with these cherished items is bittersweet. “It’s a massive wrench,” she admitted. “But I know Jeff wanted for me to share this love.” By allowing fans to glimpse and own a piece of his legacy, she honors his memory in a way that amplifies his enduring influence.
As the countdown to the auction begins, the collection serves as a poignant reminder of Jeff Beck’s contributions to music and the lasting impact of his genius.