This Old Guitar

By Jimmy Brown

Last month, I was writing about replicas of old cars and old guitars, specifically, replicas that arrive new in the box looking old and beat-up . Our editor had to cut out some of my deathless prose for lack of space reasons but he promised that the rest would run this month. This is it.

Now, back to the fellow who was shocked at a new guitar showing wear and tear. I can surely understand his reaction. Afterall, new is generally regarded as looking new. I suppose it is not totally unique to guitars, and not all guitars for that matter, but at this moment I can't think of any other examples where something showing age is desirable. This is particularly true with Fender electric guitars. There is something aesthetically pleasing about a vintage Strat or Tele showing wear and tear. Now, to buy a new one and break it in to the extent that it looks decades old, well, I suppose that could take decades to do! And to do it on your own in the way the manufacturer pre ages it is very risky. Believe me, there is a specific method to this aging process. So, when asked why someone would want a new pre aged guitar, and plus be willing to pay more for it, I can more clearly understand. There is a certain aeshetic appeal, which cannot be quantified. In addition, the cost of producing a pre aged Fender or Gibson is greater than not pre aging one. With regard to acoustic guitars, the level of handiwork, cost of materials, and economies of scale factor in to the overall price of the reissues.

Personally, I will always prefer to play my '65 Fender Jazz Bass. Since it is still a relatively affordable and durable instrument, I don't worry too much about it. Now, if and when it hits the 5 digit mark in value, I might have to rethink that. As for today, I am glad to see the guitar makers producing instruments in the spirit of the classics. I come from the generation which got to grow up with all these great guitars. It was nothing to go out and play with these great instruments. Nowadays, it just isn't so practical. If you happen to be fortunate to own one or more of these original beauties, you know you aren't as likely to take it to the gig like you would have twenty or more years ago. It's great that today you can get a new, high quality affordable guitar which at least carries on the tradition of the classic period. Even the car makers are creating cars which evoke the spirit of the classics. The PT Cruiser, the Prowler, the new T-Bird, even the new VW Bug, are examples. Our classic cars and guitars are a storied part of Americana. Perhaps the newest of these items will someday on their own be viewed in the same light as the originals. Only time will tell.

So I guess that's all for now.

Until next time,

Keep Rockin