Guitar Journal: Jeff Beck, Ross, and Martin JoBo
Jeff Beck's personal guitars to be auctioned off
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This week’s roundup of top guitar stories includes the news that Jeff Beck’s collection of guitars and gear will be auctioned at Christie’s auction house. Then we look at Ross pedals’ demise (again), as Josh Scott explains why they failed. Finally, did you order the $20k Martin 000-45 Joe Bonamassa?
Guitar Journal
Jeff Beck’s Iconic Guitars Up for Auction
A collection of over 130 pieces of gear, including 90 guitars, once owned by the legendary Jeff Beck, is set to go under the hammer at Christie’s on January 22, 2025. This auction allows fans and collectors to own a piece of rock history.
A Glimpse into Beck’s Career
The Christie’s auction will feature instruments used throughout Beck’s illustrious career, from his early days with The Yardbirds to his final tour in 2022.
Among the highlights in the collection are:
- 1954 ‘Oxblood’ Gibson Les Paul: This iconic guitar, purchased in 1972, was extensively used during the 1970s with Beck, Bogert & Appice and in Beck’s legendary performance with David Bowie and Mick Ronson at London’s Hammersmith Odeon in 1973. It also graced the cover of his Grammy-winning 1975 album “Blow By Blow.” Estimated value: £350,000 – £500,000.
- 1959 Gibson Les Paul (‘Yardburst’): This guitar, purchased in 1966, was used during Beck’s time with The Yardbirds, notably on recordings like “Over Under Sideways Down,” “Happenings Ten Years Time Ago,” and the Beck-Page collaboration “Bolero.” Estimated value: up to £60,000.
- Tele-Gib Hybrid: A unique instrument crafted by Seymour Duncan in 1973, combining elements of a Telecaster and a Gibson. Estimated value: £100,000 – £150,000.
- 1954 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster: A classic instrument valued at £50,000 – £80,000.
- ‘Anoushka’: A Fender White Stratocaster, master-built by J.W. Black, and Beck’s longest-serving guitar. Estimated value: £20,000 – £30,000.
Jeff Beck Collection
Sandra Beck, Jeff’s wife, expressed her decision to auction the guitars: “These guitars were his great love, and after almost two years of his passing, it’s time to share them, to be played and loved again. I hope the future guitarists who acquire these items are able to move closer to the genius who played them.”
Public Viewing
The Jeff Beck Collection will be on public view in Los Angeles from December 4-6, 2024, followed by a presale exhibition at Christie’s London headquarters from January 15-22, 2025.
No other guitar player will get close to the tones Jeff Beck coaxed from these guitars, and it is a pity to see them go into private hands. However, Beck left a fantastic legacy of music for the world to listen to, so we have that.
Ross Pedals
In a surprising turn of events, JHS has announced discontinuation of the Ross Pedals line, a brand they resurrected just last year.
Despite the initial excitement surrounding the revival of this iconic brand, sales have been consistently disappointing. JHS founder Josh Scott attributed the decision to a sharp decline in demand, with sales plummeting significantly after an initial surge.
Heavy Discount
To clear out the remaining inventory, JHS offered the Ross pedals at a heavily discounted price of $79, a significant reduction from their original price of $189. They all sold out quickly, and many buyers purchased whole sets simultaneously.
I’m guessing the prices will steadily rise as people work out that JHS isn’t making any more. A few dealers still have stock, including Thomann, so you may still find some in the wild at the standard price.
Saturated Market?
While the initial relaunch was met with enthusiasm and featured high-profile endorsements, the market’s response ultimately fell short of expectations. This decision highlights the challenges and risks of reviving legacy brands, even for a company as influential as JHS.
I would guess the already saturated pedal marketplace did not help, as many of today’s pedal buyers probably suffer from option paralysis already. There is possibly way too much choice in the world of stompboxes already.
The Documentary
Josh Scott loves the history of effects pedals and even created a documentary film about Ross Pedals’ history, so his heart was in the right place. You can watch the documentary above, and it is worth watching, in my opinion, as it covers many great details.
The pedal world just wasn’t ready yet, I guess.
Martin Joe Bonamassa
The Martin 000-45 Joe Bonamassa is a limited-edition acoustic guitar that pays homage to the legendary blues-rock guitarist’s beloved 1941 000-45. With only 45 pieces crafted, this instrument is a true collector’s item.
A Timeless Sound
Crafted meticulously, the 000-45 Joe Bonamassa features a vintage-toned Adirondack spruce top and Guatemalan rosewood back and sides. It delivers a rich, balanced sound that evokes the golden age of guitar making.
Joe Bonamassa’s original 000-45 has a fascinating history, passed down through generations and played by various musicians. The limited-edition replica captures the essence of this storied instrument, offering a tangible connection to the past.
A Collector’s Dream
With its highly limited production run and the increasing demand for high-quality acoustic guitars, the Martin 000-45 Joe Bonamassa is a beautiful instrument and a valuable investment.
This limited-edition model is undoubtedly the ultimate choice for those seeking something exclusive.
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