Unveiling the "Kramer Ad" Guitar: A Symbol of Rock Music History
Edition Van Halen's custom Kramer guitar, akin to Les Paul's iconic Gibson, is up for sale at auction, with an estimated worth of $3,000,000.
The "Kramer Ad" guitar, a significant piece of rock music history, is one of Eddie Van Halen's early collaborations with Kramer Guitars. This iconic instrument, built in the early 1980s, was designed to mirror Van Halen's legendary "Frankenstein" guitar, featuring a striking red, white, and black striped design[1][2].
A Historical Partnership
The partnership between Van Halen and Kramer Guitars began in 1982, with the introduction of the Baretta model. This collaboration was instrumental in propelling Kramer to unprecedented success in the mid-1980s, making them the best-selling electric guitar brand for a brief period[1][5]. The "Kramer Ad" guitar, as a testament to this partnership, played a significant role in popularizing the brand among guitar enthusiasts.
On Stage and Off
This Kramer guitar was famously used by Van Halen during his 1982 Hide Your Sheep Tour and the South American leg of the Diver Down Tour in January and February 1983[2][3]. Photos show Van Halen personally modifying the guitar at Kramer's New Jersey plant, even using an electric drill in the process[3]. Afterward, the guitar was gifted to Van Halen's tech, Robin "Rudy" Leiren, and later passed to Mick Mars of Mötley Crüe, who used it during the recording of their 1984 album Dr. Feelgood[3].
A Guitar Fit for a Legend
The "Kramer Ad" guitar bears an inscription on its back that reads, '#1 Edward Van Halen model', reflecting its significance to the guitar legend[4]. This guitar was also famously featured in Van Halen's "It's very simply the best guitar you can buy today" Kramer ad[4].
The Auction and Its Implications
Recently, this historic guitar has been put up for auction at Sotheby's New York, with estimates suggesting it could fetch between $2 million and $3 million[3]. This price reflects not only the guitar's historical significance but also its cultural impact as an iconic piece of rock music history. The auction highlights the enduring legacy of Eddie Van Halen and his influence on the guitar industry through his innovative and enduring collaborations with manufacturers like Kramer[1][3].
The Legacy Lives On
The "Kramer Ad" guitar represents a crucial moment in the history of both Eddie Van Halen and Kramer Guitars. Its impact on Kramer's success in the 1980s was substantial, and the guitar remains an important artifact of rock music history. As a symbol of Van Halen's innovative approach to guitar design and his influential endorsement partnerships, the "Kramer Ad" guitar continues to captivate music enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Sources: 1. The Kramer Ad Guitar: A Closer Look 2. Eddie Van Halen's Kramer Ad Guitar: A Historical Perspective 3. The Kramer Ad Guitar: A Rock Music Icon Up for Auction 4. The Story Behind Eddie Van Halen's Kramer Ad Guitar 5. Kramer Guitars: A Brief History of Success
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