The Guitars of Mr. Gilmour

Because of my professional life as a finance executive, I often get invited to 'networking events' sponsored by banks or 'exclusive' networking groups.  I normally pass on them because I usually find the events and company boring as hell.   I made an exception for this one as it was held at the Christie's Auction House in Beverly Hills surrounded by David Gilmour's (of Pink Floyd fame, but you probably knew that because you're here) guitar collection.

I looked. I saw.  I was about to leave.  Then one of the sponsors did that dreaded fork against the champagne glass percussion track.  Unfortunately she was right in front of the only door.  Pat-ourselves-on-the-back time.  Shit! "I'd like to introduce you to the head of real estate"   Gag!  I got your head of real estate right here. 

At least it gave me a chance to look at the collection without someone trying to 'network' me.  When the spiel was over, someone from the auction house was introduced to talk about the collection and answer questions.  Most were things like 'are they heavy?' or 'what do those knobs do?'.  

I saw a catalogue in advance and the two items than most interested me were on display.

The Black Stratocaster

David Gilmour's main axe since 1973.  Used on the road and on all albums since.   It's expected to get about $150,000.   Out of my price range.

Stratocaster With Serial #001

Since most of the crowd was amazed at how heavy a Les Paul was, there was little interest in this baby.   The questions were dumb, I would rather let the guy ramble freely and tell me stuff I wouldn't think of asking. Finally I stepped in and asked for him to tell me about this guitar.  

Evidently it's not a production model, but a pre mass produced prototype given to the players who QCed the original design.  About 10 were made with serial #001. Compare this to my Strat that has serial number 6 million something.

At the event I saw a table full of canvas bags that said 'David Gilmour' on them in plain type.  I thought they were swag.  I approached the desk and was told they're on sale for $20.  Asking what's in it I was told 'nothing, just tissue paper.'  Pass.