An iconic piece of rock history is heading to auction, and it’s poised to make headlines. The legendary Kramer electric guitar that marked the beginning of Eddie Van Halen’s groundbreaking partnership with the brand is now for sale, with a staggering estimate of up to $3 million. This early 1980s custom build is more than just an instrument; it represents a pivotal moment for both Van Halen and the electric guitar industry.
A Historic Collaboration That Changed the Game
Often hailed as the “Les Paul of Kramer,” Eddie Van Halen’s influence on the company and the broader guitar world is undeniable. This specific guitar, known to fans as the ‘Kramer Ad Guitar,’ was one of the very first builds to emerge from their partnership. Modeled after Van Halen’s famous Frankenstein guitar, it features the same iconic red, white, and black striped design that became synonymous with the guitarist’s explosive style.
“This is an iconic instrument as a symbol of Ed’s blossoming endorsement with Kramer,” says Chris Gill, an expert on Van Halen and author of Eruption: Conversations with Eddie Van Halen. “It propelled the company to incredible success, enabling them to briefly become the best-selling electric guitar manufacturer during the mid-’80s.”
The ‘Kramer Ad Guitar’ on Tour and in the Studio
This custom Kramer isn’t just a prototype; it’s a battle-tested instrument with a rich history. Sotheby’s reports that Van Halen played this guitar extensively on stage during the 1982 and 1983 legs of the Van Halen tour, with documented performances in Philadelphia and across South America.
Mötley Crüe
The guitar’s journey continued after Van Halen. He gifted the instrument to his long-time guitar tech, Rudy Leiren, with a personal inscription: “Rude – it’s been a great ten years – let’s do another ten. Eddie Van Halen.” Leiren later sold it to Mick Mars of Mötley Crüe, who famously used it during the recording of their hit album, Dr. Feelgood.
A Price Tag Reflecting Its Place in Rock History
With an auction estimate ranging from $2 million to $3 million, the guitar’s value reflects its immense historical and cultural significance. Last year, Van Halen’s Hot for Teacher Kramer sold for nearly $4 million, making it one of the most expensive guitars ever sold at auction.
This new offering from Sotheby’s is expected to attract similar high-profile bids from collectors and fans eager to own a piece of the rock and roll legacy that Eddie Van Halen built with Kramer.
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