Christie’s has stunned with the sale of Jeff Beck’s extraordinary guitar collection. Tallying a staggering £8,727,284, more than eight times the pre-sale estimate, the event set multiple world records and drew bidders from 40 countries, solidifying Mr. Beck’s legendary status, not only as a musician, but as a cultural icon.
The crown jewel of the auction was Mr. Beck’s 1954 ‘Oxblood’ Gibson Les Paul, which smashed expectations, selling for an astonishing £1,068,500 after a heated four-minute bidding war. Originally estimated at £350,000-500,000, the guitar set a new world auction record for a Gibson Les Paul.
Mr. Beck’s famed ‘Yardburst,’ another standout piece, fetched £403,200, more than six times its high estimate. The event was a guitar lover’s dream, where fervent competition kicked off from the very first lot, selling for ten times its pre-sale estimate.
Sandra Beck, Mr. Beck’s wife, shared, “I am so happy that Jeff’s guitars have been so popular amongst his fans and friends. Thank you so much for your belief in Jeff’s legacy.”
Jeff Beck playing the Oxblood, 1973. Image courtesy: Barrie Wentzell/Christie’s
Equally remarkable were the sales of Mr. Beck’s Jackson guitar, affectionately known as ‘Tina,’ which realized £441,000 — 36 times its estimate — and his touring pedalboard, which sold for £126,000, obliterating its modest pre-sale valuation.
The 100% of the hammer price from the final four lots will benefit Folly Wildlife Rescue in Tunbridge Wells. This charity, dear to Mr. Beck’s heart, continues to be supported by Mrs. Beck and close friend Johnny Depp. The philanthropic gesture is a fitting tribute to the musician’s kindness and enduring legacy.
Amelia Walker, Christie’s Specialist Head of Private & Iconic Collections, London said, “We are thrilled with the results of Jeff Beck’s incredible collection, which pay testament to the legacy of a genius – a globally-revered true rock legend. Passionate bidders competed for every lot in the sale, with each achieving many multiples of their pre-sale estimate. The power of Jeff’s live performances and the emotional connection between him and his fans is perfectly exemplified by the exceptional result for ‘Anoushka’ his main performance white Stratocaster, which sparked a 9-minute bidding battle, achieving £1,008,000 – 50 times the pre-sale low estimate. It has been an honour to have been entrusted with this collection.”
Jeff Beck’s ‘The Tina’ guitar
Jeff Beck, often hailed as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, revolutionized rock music with his technical brilliance and boundless creativity. His instruments, many of which were customized to reflect his unique style, are pieces of art that tell the story of a legendary career.
The event, which lasted nearly seven hours, was a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to pushing the boundaries of sound and creativity. The global enthusiasm for the auction speaks to Mr. Beck’s far-reaching influence, not only within the music industry but across generations of fans. From the thunderous applause for his groundbreaking solos to the fierce bidding wars at Christie’s, Mr. Beck’s legacy resonates louder than ever.
